School-Age Group Leader - YMCA of Rock River Valley

POSITION SUMMARY

The School-Age Group Leader is a dedicated and enthusiastic individual responsible for guiding and mentoring a group of children in before and after school programs, as well as summer camp activities. Reporting to the School-Age Area Coordinator and working closely with the Site Lead, the Group Leader plays a key role in implementing engaging, educational, and recreational activities that support the academic and social/emotional development of youth. This position requires a commitment to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment, fostering positive relationships with participants, parents, and school staff, and modeling the YMCA core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility, and Faith. The Group Leader must demonstrate excellent organizational skills, proactive communication, and a passion for youth development, ensuring that all program operations align with the YMCA’s mission, culture, and values. Regardless of primary assignment, this position may be required to travel between program sites as needed.

HOME LOCATION

Camp Winnebago
5804 North Main Street
Rockford, IL 61103

WORK LOCATION

This position may serve schools in these districts: RPS 205, Harlem 122, Winnebago and Pecatonica schools. Placements will be determined at time of hire.
Regardless of primary assignment, this position may be required to travel between sites as needed.

OUR CULTURE
Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.

OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION
The Y is made up of people of all ages, from all walks of life, working side-by-side to strengthen communities. Together, we strive to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, age, cultural background, ethnicity, faith, gender, gender expression, gender identity, ideology, income, national origin, race or sexual orientation has the opportunity to reach their full potential with dignity. Our core values are caring, honesty, respect, responsibility and faith — they guide everything we do.

OUR COMMITMENT TO YOUTH PROTECTION
The YMCA of Rock River Valley has a responsibility to provide safe and secure programs and services for our community. The YMCA is a leader in child abuse prevention to support the safety of children in our care.

• You'll support the commitment of the YMCA to child abuse prevention by:
• Report any items that may provide a health or safety hazard to staff, members or guests to your supervisor.
• Follow all policies and procedures related to keeping children safe in our facilities and programs, including those related to the monitoring and supervision of children.
• Report any suspicious behavior and violation of policy and procedures to your supervisor.
• Complete all child abuse prevention training as required.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Be a positive YMCA role model for all youth achievement programs by modeling the YMCA core values: Caring, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility & Faith.
2. Leads and mentors a group of children, fostering a positive and engaging environment.
3. Facilitates and participates in group activities throughout the daily schedule, ensuring they are educational, recreational, and aligned with program goals.
4. Provides a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment for all participants.
5. Builds caring, consistent, and positive relationships with program participants to support their development.
6. Provides constant supervision during program to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants.
7. Supports students in academic, recreational, and enrichment activities, using provided curriculum materials.
8. Assists the Site Lead in handling discipline, complaints, and conflict resolution, employing positive youth discipline techniques.
9. Uses positive youth discipline techniques, such as Core Values, Redirect, and Behavior Agreements, to manage conflicts among participants.
10. Models appropriate behaviors, including cleanliness, punctuality, sharing, healthy habits, sportsmanship, and table manners.
11. Treats all students, parents, and fellow staff with respect and fosters a culture of respect within the program.
12. Performs duties and tasks as assigned by the Site Lead, supporting the smooth operation of the site.
13. Treats and cares for the site and equipment respectfully, ensuring the space is kept clean and well-maintained.
14. Attends and actively participates in all team meetings and trainings.
15. Communicates all concerns to leadership in a timely manner.
16. Ensures a strong focus on character development and diversity, equity and inclusion throughout programming.
17. Adheres to all state, local, and YMCA policies and procedures
18. Reports damaged equipment or safety hazards promptly.
19. During no school days and summer camp programs, serve as a group leader as assigned by Area Coordinator.
20. Performs any other functions necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Rock River Valley.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum High School Diploma or GED required
• Training required upon hire: Child Abuse Prevention, Blood-borne Pathogens, IL Gateways Child Development Health & Safety, IL DCFS Child Abuse and Neglect/Mandated Reporter. Any additional certifications that are required by the state of Illinois.
• 1-year related experience of leadership in a childcare setting preferred.
• CPR, AED and First Aid Certifications required within 90 days.
• Praesidium Academy trainings.
• YMCA Leader Team Leader certification preferred.
• Prefer knowledge of, and previous experience with, diverse populations.
• Proven track record of developing authentic and deepened relationships with others.

SCHEDULE & COMPENSATION

Seeking to Hire 15 Group Leaders
Part Time, Non-Exempt
Regardless of primary assignment, this position may be required to travel between sites as needed.
Monday-Friday, varies between 6:30 - 9:00 am and 1:45 - 5:45 pm (School Year)
Hours may vary on School's Out Days and during Summer Months
$15.00 per hour

The Y is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We offer more than just a job, rather the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of those around you. The Y offers work/life balance, and excellent membership & program benefits.

• Complimentary YMCA Membership
• Program Discounts
• 8% Retirement contribution following 2-year vesting requirement

The Y: We're for Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility