What are the responsibilities and job description for the Teen Group Leader position at YMCA of Rock River Valley?
POSITION SUMMARY
The Teen Group Leader is a dedicated and enthusiastic individual responsible for guiding and mentoring a group of teens and tweens in out-of-school time programs. Reporting to the Vice President of Youth Development Operations, the Teen 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 and families, and modeling the YMCA core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility, and Faith. The Teen Group Leader must demonstrate excellent organizational skills, proactive communication, and a passion for youth development, ensuring that all program operations align with the YMCAs mission, culture, and values. Regardless of primary assignment, this position may be required to travel between program sites as needed.
LOCATION
Good Shepherd YMCA
1829 N. Rockton Ave
Rockford, IL
SwedishAmerican Riverfront YMCA
200 Y Blvd.
Rockford, IL
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
- Be a positive YMCA role model for all youth achievement programs by modeling the YMCA core values: Caring, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility & Faith.
- Leads and mentors a group of youth, fostering a positive and engaging environment.
- Facilitates and participates in group activities throughout the daily schedule, ensuring they are educational, recreational, and aligned with program goals.
- Provides a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment for all participants.
- Builds caring, consistent, and positive relationships with program participants to support their development.
- Provides constant supervision during program to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants.
- Supports students in academic, recreational, and enrichment activities, using provided curriculum materials.
- Manages discipline, complaints, and conflict resolution, employing positive youth discipline techniques.
- Uses positive youth discipline techniques, such as Core Values, Redirect, and Behavior Agreements, to manage conflicts among participants.
- Models appropriate behaviors, including cleanliness, punctuality, sharing, healthy habits, sportsmanship, and table manners.
- Treats all students, families, and fellow staff with respect and fosters a culture of respect within the program.
- Utilizes assigned systems and software to accurately track attendance, assessments, and program metrics, ensuring compliance with program requirements and desired outcomes.
- Treats and cares for the site and equipment respectfully, ensuring the space is kept clean and well-maintained.
- Attends and actively participates in all team meetings and trainings.
- Communicates all concerns to leadership in a timely manner.
- Ensures a strong focus on character development and diversity, equity and inclusion throughout programming.
- Adheres to all state, local, and YMCA policies and procedures
- Reports damaged equipment or safety hazards promptly.
- 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.
- Prefer knowledge of, and previous experience with, diverse populations.
- Proven track record of developing authentic and deepened relationships with others.
SCHEDULE & COMPENSATION
2 Positions
*May be asked to travel between branches*
Part-Time, Non-Exempt
Good Shepherd YMCA and SwedishAmerican Riverfront YMCA
Monday - Friday 4:00 - 8:00 pm
$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.
ALL STAFF BENEFITS:
- Discounted Programs & Services, Including Child Care
- Pay Differential for Bilingual Employees
- Paid Time Off: Paid Leave for All Workers
- Employee Crisis Fund
- Employee Assistance Program
- Cell Phone Discounts with Participating Providers
- Tickets At Work Discount Program
- 401 (a) Retirement Plan: 8% YMCA Contributed Retirement
- 403 (b) Savings Plan: Tax-Deferred Account and Roth Account Options
- For retirement plan eligibility requirements, and additional information, visit www.yretirement.org.
FULL TIME STAFF BENEFITS:
- Free Family Membership
- 3 Paid Floating Holidays
- 10.5 Paid Holidays
- Paid Vacation and Sick Time: Varies by Employment Type
- Short-Term Disability Program
- Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance: Partially Employer Paid. Employee Contribution Required
- Life and Long-Term Disability Insurance: YMCA Sponsored and Employee Contribution Programs Available
- Accident, Critical Illness & Hospital Insurance Plans: Employee Contribution Required
- Tuition Reimbursement: Must Meet Qualifications
PART TIME STAFF BENEFITS:
- Free individual Membership
- Discounted Rate to Upgrade to Another Membership Category
The Y: We're for Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social ResponsibilityHeal
Salary : $15