POSITION SUMMARY

The Horizons Afterschool Counselor is responsible for the daily supervision of 10 to 19 after-school program participants of middle school age. The responsibilities include assisting in the planning, development, and implementation of activities in the after-school program. The Horizons Afterschool Counselor guides the academic and social development of children by ensuring a safe, enriching, and healthy learning environment. Horizons Afterschool Counselors use a variety of resources, which are provided by the Horizons Program Coordinator, to introduce new skills throughout the execution of activities. To accomplish this, staff are required to participate in weekly professional development and planning sessions. Horizons Afterschool Counselors must have the competencies, skills, and proven leadership ability to successfully carry out the YMCA mission, goals, and visions for serving the community.

YMCA 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.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Ensuring the safety and engagement of all children in their assigned group.
• Provide assistance with homework and encourages academic progress.
• Follows program lesson plans and implementation plans in a developmentally appropriate manner, meeting the individual physical, social, emotional, and intellectual needs of all participants.
• Serves as a positive role model, demonstrates professional behavior, and understands positive youth development approaches to the academic and social development of youth.
• Facilitates a programming environment that invites exploration, promotes positive play, and welcomes children.
• Maintains ongoing communication with supervisor.
• Maintains accurate classroom records as assigned and in accordance with program requirements.
• Communicates appropriately with parents and attends designated parent/family events.
• Adheres to all required policies of the YMCA of Western North Carolina, the state, and federal regulations.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be at least 16 years of age or older. Previous YMCA experience is strongly preferred for candidates under the age of 18.
• Some prior experience working with children is preferred.
• Exceptional group management, problem-solving, and conflict resolution skills.
• Experience in creating interactive and educational/artistic activities, youth development, academic enrichment, and arts.
• Must possess oral, auditory, and written communication skills that are appropriate for interacting with both children and adults.
• Must be capable of implementing the daily administrative, program-related, and supervisory responsibilities of an after-school site.
• Flexibility with the ability to adapt to changing circumstances.

PART-TIME BENEFITS

• Free individual membership to all YMCA of WNC locations
• Discounted membership for household members
• Discounted program fees (swim lessons, youth sports, summer camp and more)
• Start a 403(b) smart savings account on day one of employment (optional) and begin eligibility for YMCA retirement plan
• Professional development opportunities through local and Y-USA trainings

The YMCA of WNC does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, faith, gender, pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, citizenship status, genetic information, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law, except where a bona fide occupational qualification applies.