Teen Program Counselor: Johnston YMCA

The Teen Program 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 principles. We strive every day to collectively embody our purpose to love, serve and transform lives. Every day we show up to Lead with Love and Serve with Purpose .

We Love unconditionally – showing genuine care and concern for everyone, making each interaction meaningful and personal and ensuring every person feels valued, seen and welcomed. We elevate Hope – promoting optimism by offering encouragement and practical solutions to challenges. We act with Care & Compassion – listening attentively without judgment, responding with empathy, and creating a sense of belonging by uplifting and supporting those around us. We demonstrate Generosity – sharing our time, skills, and resources freely and with joy.

We walk in Grace – showing patience and kindness, even in difficult moments. We ignite Faith – staying grounded in our mission, principles and purpose, inspiring others to trust in what is possible. Demonstrating consistency in our actions, helping others see how their efforts align with a greater purpose. We treasure Honesty – communicating openly and truthfully, admitting mistakes when they occur, and honoring commitments. We honor Humility – leading with a servant's heart by prioritizing the needs of others above our own.

We live with Joy – celebrating small and big wins alike, inspiring connection and shared joy. We offer Respect – addressing everyone by name and honoring diverse perspectives and backgrounds. We value Responsibility – performing every task timely with diligence and excellence and holding ourselves accountable by openly evaluating our performance. We engage in Service – going above and beyond in serving others by anticipating needs and delivering exceptional experiences.

Essential Functions

• 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.
• Implement workforce readiness programming.
• Encourage creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving by guiding teens through project-based learning experiences. Including but not limited to technology and innovation.
• Provide mentorship and individualized support to help teens build confidence, leadership skills, and career pathways.
• Assist with coordinating workshops, guest speakers, and community partnerships focused on technology, entrepreneurship, and workforce development.

Performs other duties and tasks as assigned by leadership

Required Qualifications

• Must be at least 21 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

Preferred Qualifications

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

Working Conditions

• 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

• 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
• EMOTIONAL MATURITY : Demonstrates ability to understand and manage emotions effectively in all situations
• DEVELOPING SELF & OTHERS : Develops self and supports others (e.g., staff, volunteers, members, program participants), both formally and informally, to achieve their highest potential
• 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.

Technology : Frequent use of computers, audiovisual equipment, gaming systems, and makerspace technology including, but not limited to, 3D printers, Cricut cutting machines, heat presses, printers, and other creative and digital learning tools. Position requires the ability to learn, operate, troubleshoot basic issues, and instruct participants in the safe use of technology.

To be eligible for this role, candidates must be 21 years of age or older .