Y Club Youth Leader

YMCA of Greater Kansas City • Overland Park, KS

9d

About The Position

The YMCA of Greater Kansas City is hiring for its Y Club before- and after-school program, which provides a fun, safe, and supportive environment for elementary-aged children. Youth Development Leaders lead their own group of children with greater responsibility and independence. The program operates on weekday mornings before school and/or afternoons after school until 6 p.m. The position is part-time and offers a starting wage of $15.50 per hour, with increases based on experience and education. The YMCA also hires Youth Development Assistants, a support role for applicants ages 16 and older.

The YMCA describes its culture as cause-driven, welcoming, genuine, hopeful, nurturing, and determined, with a focus on helping individuals reach their potential and strengthening the community. Youth development associates are mandated reporters under Kansas and Missouri law and must immediately report suspected child abuse or neglect, as well as unsafe conditions, accidents, and injuries.

Requirements

• Minimum age of 18 for the Youth Development Leader role.
• High school diploma or equivalent required at Kansas sites.
• Genuine interest in helping children learn, play, and grow.
• Ability to work effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions.
• Ability to actively engage with and supervise children during indoor and outdoor activities; the role requires energy and alertness while on your feet.
• General understanding of computer technology.
• Tuberculosis Test Risk Assessment and State Health Assessment form required within 30 days at Missouri sites.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience working with school-age children, such as babysitting, nannying, camp, or childcare programs.
• One year or more of college preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead age-appropriate activities, including games, arts and crafts, STEM projects, and physical activities.
• Keep children safe by teaching and enforcing safety rules and responding quickly and appropriately in emergencies.
• Guide children’s behavior by teaching and redirecting rather than scolding, enforcing rules firmly while treating each child with dignity and respect.
• Verify photo identification before releasing children to authorized adults until the staff member personally knows them.
• Build positive relationships with children, families, school staff, and YMCA teammates.
• Attend scheduled shifts reliably and follow YMCA, licensing, and school district policies.
• Help keep program spaces clean and organized.
• Youth Development Leaders directly supervise and lead a group of children independently.
• Immediately report suspected child abuse or neglect, unsafe conditions, accidents, and injuries as mandated reporters under Kansas and Missouri law.

Benefits

• Flexible schedule with morning, afternoon, or both shifts available.
• Free YMCA membership.
• Ongoing training and professional development.
• Opportunity to make an impact on children and gain experience relevant to education, childcare, or youth work.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED