Afterschool Counselor - Horizons - McDowell

ABOUT US  

The nonprofit YMCA of Western North Carolina strengthens local communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Founded in 1889, we engage more than 100,000 people – regardless of age, income, or background – to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve the region’s health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support the community. We do this through seven YMCAs, dozens of program sites, and YMCA Camp Watia. As the state’s largest provider of licensed school-age childcare, we give more than 1,000 children a day the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. We are made up of people of all ages, from all backgrounds, working side by side to ensure that everyone can reach their full potential with dignity. Our core values are caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility, and they guide everything we do. We are committed to being an organization that exposes and addresses social constraints that limit and/or negatively affect all humans from all walks of life. We recruit staff who are passionate about giving back to the community, helping people, and upholding our core values. For more information, please visit ymcawnc.org.

ABOUT THE ROLE

As an Afterschool Counselor II - Horizons, you will play a crucial role in the supervision of middle-school-age participants in our Horizons afterschool program.  You'll lead activities that contribute to the academic and social growth of children by fostering a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment. Utilizing a variety of resources provided by the Program Coordinator, you'll introduce new skills and enhance learning experiences throughout the activities. 

We're looking for individuals who demonstrate the competencies, skills, and leadership abilities to effectively support the YMCA's mission of community service and enrichment. 

Location: Varies, McDowell County School District

Afterschool Hours: M-F, 3pm – 6pm

Summer Hours & School Year Breaks: M-F, 7:30am – 5:30pm, Up to 40 hours/week

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Ensures the safety and engagement of all children in their assigned group, creating a secure and enjoyable environment for every child.
• Offers homework support and encourages academic progress, celebrating each child's achievements and fostering a love for learning.
• Follows program lesson plans thoughtfully, considering each child's unique physical, social, emotional, and intellectual needs.
• Cultivates a nurturing programming environment that encourages exploration, positive play, and embraces every child's individuality.
• Maintains open and ongoing communication with their supervisor, ensuring the best support and resources for the program participants.
• Keeps accurate classroom records as assigned, ensuring compliance with program standards while respecting each child's privacy and achievements.
• Communicates effectively with parents, actively participating in designated parent and family events to strengthen partnerships and support each child's development.
• Models inclusive behaviors and embraces all dimensions of diversity, fostering an environment where every child feels valued and respected.

• Adheres to all required policies of the YMCA of Western North Carolina, the state, and federal regulations.

ABOUT YOU

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age or older
• Must have a high school diploma or equivalent.  
• Previous experience working with children or teens pre