YOUTH DEVELOPMENT LEADER - SUMMER PROGRAM

Position Description:

Under the supervision of the Site Director, Youth Development Leaders will facilitate recreational and enrichment activities for groups of up to 16 students. They will collaborate with team members to deliver age-appropriate educational and enrichment experiences while serving as positive role models who promote respect, self-confidence, and a sense of community among students. Youth Development Leaders will also take proactive steps to ensure the quality and effectiveness of the program.

Primary Job Functions:

• Implement activity plans and schedules as directed by the Site Director and program teachers.
• Demonstrate initiative and creativity by developing engaging activities during unstructured time or as needed. Regularly assess the effectiveness of activities and adjust to better meet students’ needs.
• Act as a positive role model, encouraging respect, inclusivity, and appropriate student behavior and language.
• Take an active role in making sure that program objectives are met.
• Always promote safety and security, ensuring children are never left unattended or placed in unsafe situations. Responds appropriately to situations requiring first aid.
• Supervise and facilitate recreational games, sports, and enrichment activities while maintaining professionalism and avoiding inappropriate behavior.
• Look for ways to encourage, inspire, and motivate students to think creatively while providing activities that require critical thinking.
• Accompany children during transportation and on field trips to ensure children’s safety and support proper conduct.
• Monitor and address behavioral challenges positively and constructively, escalating issues to the Site Director, when necessary.
• Foster a respectful and supportive working relationship with supervisors and peers.
• Collaborate with other staff members to create innovative and engaging curriculum enhancements.
• Participates in staff meetings and professional development opportunities to improve skills and stay informed of program updates.
• Demonstrates professionalism when interacting with children, parents, Site Director, teachers, volunteers, visitors, etc. ensuring that each person is treated with dignity and respect.
• Adheres to all Upper Room KC policies, procedures, guidelines, rules and regulations.

(Minimum Education and Experience)

• Must be 21 years of age or a high school graduate
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, fostering positive relationships with students, staff and families.
• Certification in First Aid and CPR (or ability to obtain certification prior to employment) highly recommended.
• Strong ability to interact effectively with children across various age groups.
• Successful completion of a background screening through the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Family Care Safety Registry and criminal background screening through the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
• Experience working in an educational or child-care environment is preferred.