Teen Program Counselor: McCrorey YMCA

Reports to:  Youth Development Leadership

The Teen Counselor plays a vital role in engaging, supervising, and mentoring teens in YMCA programs. This position is responsible for leading activities, fostering positive relationships, ensuring a safe environment, and supporting program planning to promote personal growth, leadership, and community involvement among teen participants.

The culture of the Y is rooted in our Christian mission and core values. We strive every day to collectively embody our purpose of serving as a catalyst to transform lives and communities through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. We are respectful – we treat each other and those we serve as we hope to be treated ourselves. We are caring – we show a sincere concern for others and their well-being. We are honest – we are truthful in what we say and what we do, and we do not make promises we do not intend to keep. We are responsible – we are good stewards of our resources, strive for excellence and our actions are accountable to those we serve. We are innovative – we harness creativity, are solution minded and forward thinking. We lead with faith.

·         Lead and facilitate structured activities, events, and group discussions to engage teens in meaningful programming.

·         Assist in planning and organizing teen-focused programs, including leadership development, community service projects, and recreational activities.

·         Build and maintain positive relationships with teen participants, acting as a mentor and role model.

·         Supervise and interact with teens during program activities, ensuring active participation and engagement.

·         Maintain safety and quality standards, enforcing rules and behavioral expectations in accordance with YMCA policies.

·         Foster an inclusive and welcoming environment where all teens feel valued and supported.

·         Encourage leadership and teamwork, helping teens develop confidence, responsibility, and decision-making skills.

·         Communicate regularly with program staff, parents, and volunteers to provide updates and address concerns.

·         Support community outreach efforts to increase teen participation and promote YMCA programs.

·         Attend staff meetings and training sessions to enhance skills and ensure program effectiveness.

Performs other duties and tasks as assigned by leadership

·         Must be at least 22 years old with a passion for working with teens ages 12-18.

·         Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to connect with and inspire teens.

·         Ability to lead and supervise groups in a structured and engaging manner.

·         Commitment to creating a safe, positive, and inclusive environment for all participants.

·         Basic understanding of youth development principles, including positive behavior management.

·         Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, school breaks, and weekends as needed for teen events.

All YMCA team members are expected to maintain a current and active status for all safety, risk, and programming certifications defined by the YMCA of Greater Charlotte.

·         Experience in youth programming, mentoring, or recreation preferred but not required.

·         Environment: Primarily indoor settings within YMCA facilities, but may include outdoor activities, off-site trips, and community events.

·         Physical Demands: Ability to stand, walk, and actively engage with teens for extended periods. May include occasional lifting (up to 25 lbs.), bending, and physical activity during recreation-based programs.

·         Schedule: Requires flexibility in hours, including evenings, weekends, school breaks, and occasional holidays to support teen programming and special events.

·         Interaction: Frequent face-to-face interaction with teens, staff, volunteers, and parents in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

·         Safety: Must remain alert and responsive to maintain a safe environment, following YMCA policies and emergency protocols.

·         Technology Use: Basic computer use may be required for scheduling, attendance tracking, and communication.

#

Competencies

1

INCLUSION: Values all people for their unique talents, and takes an active role in promoting practices that support diversity, inclusion, and global work, as well as cultural competence

2

EMOTIONAL MATURITY: Demonstrates ability to understand and manage emotions effectively in all situations

3

DEVELOPING SELF & OTHERS: Develops self and supports others (e.g., staff, volunteers, members, program participants), both formally and informally, to achieve their highest potential

4

ENGAGING COMMUNITY: Builds bridges with others in the community to ensure the Y’s work is community-focused and welcoming of all, providing community benefit