Youth Program Leader

The British Columbia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BC SPCA)•Penticton, BC

18h•CA$22 - CA$22•Onsite

About The Position

Our youth programs are developed to inspire and educate kids ages 6-14 about pet care, animal welfare and the environment. This casual position will coordinate with the Regional Humane Educator (RHE) in the designated area to deliver youth programs, which may include: weekend youth events, school holiday workshops, after-school workshops, spring break camps, summer camps and classroom presentations.

Requirements

High School Diploma or equivalent
Valid emergency first aid certificate
Enthusiasm for working with kids and animals; previous experience with kids and animals an asset
Is aware of and exhibits leadership qualities and instincts
Demonstrated experience in teamwork with a teachable spirit
Energetic, innovative and enthusiastic, with a passion for making a difference
Patient, positive and hardworking
Ability to communicate with a diverse audience in a respectful way; able to address conflict in a constructive and professional manner
Position is physically demanding and may include lifting (up to 25 lbs), pushing, pulling and participating in outdoor field games at camps/workshops
Excellent verbal communication skills
Excellent organizational skills
Must be willing to complete a criminal record check with vulnerable sector check
Philosophical harmony with the vision, mission, and strategic directions of the BC SPCA.

Nice To Haves

previous experience with kids and animals an asset

Responsibilities

Either independently or in collaboration with the Regional Humane Educator and/or other Youth Program [Coordinators], deliver fun and educational activities, as assigned, for youth at BC SPCA locations, schools and other community locations.
Ensure the safety of participants, taking attendance and keeping track of participants at all times.
Identify potential safety hazards in advance and take quick action to prevent/deal with any safety concerns as they arise.
Provide suggestions to supervisor to improve safety.
Provide first aid when required.
Complete incident reports if required.
Must be able to provide a schedule and commit to programs once scheduled.
Provide a fun and inclusive environment for youth and build relationships with participants.
Be respectful, curious, and knowledgeable about diversity and wherever possible, work with participants to ensure they acknowledge/appreciate this in other participants as well.
Be flexible and prepared to adapt support for participants with unique behavioural, learning and/or other needs.
Work with RHE to implement strategies and solutions to create a successful experience for participants.
Work with RHE and/or other team members to provide one-on-one support to participants when required; look for ways to encourage interaction in a variety of ways in educational activities.
Communicate with the Regional Humane Educator, parents and teachers to promote programs and coordinate events.
Communicate with Regional Humane Educator to evaluate programs and make suggestions for improvement.
Gain a basic understanding of BC SPCA policies and positions on animal welfare issues and be able to explain them at the level appropriate for the audience.
Learn to recognize animal stress signals and monitor shelter animals for signs of stress when interacting with participants.
Maintain a clean and organized activity space; set up and break down of workshop spaces.
Liaise with parents to deal with any participant issues that arise during events.
Liaise and work cooperatively with staff and volunteers at BC SPCA animal centres.
Other duties as may be required.