"Thrive" Youth Ministry Leader

Job Title: Thrive Youth Ministry Leader
Location: Trinity Metropolitan Community Church, Gainesville, FL
Hours: Approximately 8 hours per month, with additional hours for special events

About Us
Trinity Metropolitan Community Church is a progressive, inclusive church that embraces diversity and welcomes everyone. Thrive is our youth ministry program designed to provide a supportive, affirming space for young people to connect, grow, and explore their spirituality. Our church community is LGBTQIA affirming and committed to social justice and compassion.

Position Overview
The Thrive Youth Ministry Leader will lead our youth ministry program, working with school-aged children and young teens. This role involves developing and facilitating engaging activities that encourage spiritual growth, community, and creativity. The Thrive Leader will play a key role in creating an inclusive environment where each child feels valued and supported.

This is an ideal position for someone looking to make a meaningful impact with a small, flexible time commitment. It’s perfect for students or professionals who have experience working with youth and a passion for fostering community and personal growth in a welcoming environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Program Development: Create and lead engaging activities for Thrive sessions during Sunday services, averaging about 8 hours per month, which includes planning and preparation time. Activities should promote spiritual exploration, personal growth, and a sense of community, incorporating music, arts, crafts, games, and discussions suitable for a variety of ages.
• Session Facilitation: Prepare and deliver the Thrive Kidz program each week, ensuring that activities and lessons align with the church's inclusive values. This includes hands-on teaching and guiding children through the planned activities in a way that fosters learning and connection.
• Program Promotion and Growth: Collaborate with the Thrive Coordinator, pastor, and church communications team to raise awareness of the Thrive program within the church and the wider community. Develop outreach strategies to encourage new families and youth to participate, including attending relevant community events and communicating with parents about upcoming Thrive sessions and opportunities.
• Volunteer Support: Train and support the Thrive volunteer assisting each week, as needed, to ensure they understand the activities and feel prepared to help effectively. Collaborate with volunteers to maintain a supportive and welcoming environment for the youth.
• Child Safety and Documentation: Ensure that all required paperwork is completed for each child in the program, including annual updates. Report any behaviors of concern according to child protection guidelines and complete any necessary documentation, in consultation with the pastor when appropriate.
• Special Programs and Events: Assist with planning and facilitating additional programming for special events, such as summer programs, holiday activities, and community gatherings, to provide enriching experiences for the youth.
• Space Maintenance: Keep the Thrive room (small hall) clean, organized, and welcoming. This includes tidying up after sessions and organizing materials and supplies as needed.
• Time Reporting: Submit a record of hours worked to the church treasurer on a monthly basis.
• Other Duties: Undertake additional tasks as agreed upon with the Thrive Coordinator and pastor to support the overall goals of the ministry.

Qualifications

• Passion for Youth Ministry: A strong interest in supporting youth in an inclusive, affirming, and nurturing environment.
• Experience with Youth: Previous experience working with children or youth, either through teaching, volunteering, or community service, is preferred.
• Creativity & Flexibility: Ability to develop engaging and age-appropriate activities that promote spiritual growth and personal development.
• Excellent Communication Skills: Comfortable communicating with youth, parents, and church staff. Capable of fostering a welcoming and respectful environment.
• Inclusivity & Affirming Mindset: Embraces diversity and understands the importance of creating an LGBTQIA affirming space. Willing to respect and support each young person’s unique spiritual journey.
• Outreach Experience (Preferred): Familiarity with basic outreach or promotion methods is a plus, as part of growing the Thrive program.

Benefits of the Position

• Flexible Commitment: The Thrive Leader role typically requires an average of 8 hours per month, with additional hours occasionally required for special events, seasonal programs, or other needs. This makes it an ideal opportunity for students, professionals, or community members with other commitments who are looking to make an impact in a meaningful way.
• Impactful Experience: This role offers a chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people by helping to shape their spiritual growth and sense of community.
• Supportive Community: Join a welcoming church environment that values diversity, compassion, and inclusivity.

How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit a brief cover letter and resume to info@mccgainesville.org with the subject line “Thrive Youth Ministry Leader Application.” In your cover letter, please share why you are interested in working with youth in an affirming church environment and any relevant experience you have working with children or community programs.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $18.00 - $20.00 per hour

Expected hours: 2 – 2.5 per week

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Ability to Commute:

• Gainesville, FL 32608 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Gainesville, FL 32608: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $18 - $20