Group Leader (Ridgewood YMCA)

Group Leader (Ridgewood YMCA)

The YMCA of Greater New York is here for all New Yorkers to empower youth, improve health, and strengthen community. Founded in 1852, today the Y serves a diverse population of more than half a million New Yorkers who learn, grow, and thrive through programs and services at our 24 branches. Community is the cornerstone of the Y. Together, we connect active, engaged New Yorkers to build stronger communities.

To help fulfill our mission, we cultivate a culture of learning, leading, and collaboration to enhance community impact. Through our talented staff and "LEAP" career framework (Leadership, Empowerment, Accountability, Personal Growth), we are committed to a people-first approach that fosters trust, inclusion, growth, and development for all.

Being part of the YMCA Afterschool staff team is a deeply rewarding job where you support children's learning, help build strong connections, and have a positive impact on so many in your community. At Y Afterschool, we will create a safe and fun space for kids to learn and grow, lead creative activities, and help them develop valuable skills. This is an opportunity to make a real difference and gain invaluable leadership and interpersonal experience.

The Ridgewood YMCA is seeking Group Leaders. Under the supervision of the Program Director, the Group Leader will play a critical role in the successful operation of the Y Afterschool program, including Holiday Camps. The Group Leader will be responsible for providing a safe and positive environment for school-age children and for providing opportunities for learning, interaction, and academic or personal growth.

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensure the health, safety, and well-being of participants in the program by providing appropriate supervision at all times.
• Collaborate with Content and/or Activity Specialists on implementation of engaging age-appropriate lesson plans that complement school day learning.
• Provide essential academic support, including daily homework assistance, individual or small group tutoring sessions, and enrichment activities (i.e., book clubs and math-based games).
• Create and implement meaningful activities, lesson plans, and special events that are age-appropriate, exciting, challenging, and value-based in SEL, physical fitness, healthy living, STEAM, literacy, college/career, life skills development, and leadership development.
• Prepare the learning environment, lessons, and necessary supplies for program activities.
• Support the coordination and presentation of a culminating performance at the end of the program cycle, if applicable.
• Collaborate with the Inclusion Coordinator as appropriate to support all students in the classroom.
• Work cooperatively with the program and school staff.
• Promote an inclusive, welcoming, and respectful environment that embraces the diversity of all participants.
• Create and maintain a strength-based, youth-focused atmosphere that is consistent and sensitive to the needs of participants with learning, emotional, or behavioral differences.
• Serve as a positive role model for participants.
• Maintain accurate program documentation (sign-in/sign-out forms, behavior reports, and incident reports, as appropriate).
• Understand and communicate the YMCA's core values and the goals of the Y Afterschool program to participants and caregivers.
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with parents/guardians and caregivers through regular communication regarding their child's strengths and areas for growth.
• Actively participate in training sessions, designated meetings, and special events.
• Adhere to all Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), Department of Health (DOH), YMCA of Greater New York, school partner, and funder standards, expectations, and regulations.

Desired Skills & Experience:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required. College credits preferred.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience working with children under the age of 13 in a group setting.
• Knowledge of ages and stages of youth development.
• Current Pediatrics CPR or First Aid certification preferred.
• General knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Strong interpersonal skills, leadership qualities, and comfortable working with diverse youth and adults.
• Y Afterschool programs operate Monday through Friday from 2:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and during public-school breaks.

The YMCA of Greater New York offers a variety of benefits to its staff members, including retirement benefits, medical benefits, paid time off, free YMCA membership, and more! Benefit eligibility is determined by an individual's employment status (i.e., full-time or part-time), tenure, and/or the number of hours scheduled to work. Click here for more information.

If you would like to be a member of our dynamic team, please complete our online application and submit your rsum and a thoughtful cover letter that explains your interest in the role and our organization. If you are a current YMCA employee, please submit your application through the Internal Career Site in Cornerstone.