Activity Specialist-Harvard Park

Activity SpecialistWorking under the direction of an assigned supervisor, Activity Specialists play an essential role in achieving the Boys & Girls Club of Central Illinois (BGCCIL) mission as they directly serve as positive role models, mentors and activity leaders to a diverse group of youth between the ages of 6 to 18 years old. Activity Specialists assist youth daily in acquiring the necessary developmental assets they need to achieve Academic Success, adopt a Healthy Lifestyle and cultivate their Good Character & Citizenship.Major Duties And Responsibilities1. Prepare Youth For SuccessLearn the names of Members and develop positive relationships with youth.Implement fun activities with high level of energy to attract maximum Member participationProvide guidance, mentoring and role modeling to Members.Support youth in following Club Rules, addressing discipline situations fairly, firmly, consistently and kindly.Respect confidentiality of Members, employees, volunteers and information.Strive to achieve a high standard of professionalism in effective communication, personal motivation, and interpersonal skills with Members, peers, superiors, parents, volunteers and the general public.2. Implementing & Assisting With Planning, Evaluating Programming And CurriculumImplement activities with a high degree of fun to get maximum participationAssist with implementing special events and activities to enhance Members' knowledge, understanding and skills (e.g., Family Nights, outreach, etc.).Assist with tracking and reporting program participation and achievements, recommending modifications that respond to Member needs and interests.3. Maintain Order & SafetyMaintain a sense of order and control at the Central Unit of BGCCIL by using good judgment and enforcing rules fairly, firmly, consistently and kindly.Maintain an environment that insures the health and safety of members by maintaining a high degree of awareness to ensure a clean and safe environment.Insure proper care of BGCCIL property (tables, computers, books, sports equipment, etc.) by identifying and addressing anything out of order.Daily Duties• Implement standard operating procedures for opening, running and closing assigned program area - ensuring safety of Members and utilization of youth development strategy at all times. Assists with student completion and organization of school assignments during Power Hour.• Recruit and engage youth in activities.• Run activities at the scheduled times with a high level of fun, Member participation and order.• Address Member discipline situations fairly and correctly, assisting them to resolve conflicts in a fair, firm, consistent and kind manner.• Foster positive youth development relationships with Members, engaging them in conversations and activities that test their knowledge, encouraging them to work on improving weak areas and praising them for effort, good conduct and achievements;• Assist in tracking daily attendance and program activities.• Serve as a positive force in the organization and achieve a high standard of professionalism and customer service through effective communication, personal motivation, and interpersonal skills with Members, peers, superiors, parents and the general public.• Perform other duties as assigned.Additional AccountabilitiesEssential Working Relationships: Internal: Maintain close, daily contact with BGCCIL professional staff and Volunteers to interpret and explain organizational mission, program objectives and standards, discuss issues, and provide/receive information. Cultivate ongoing relationships with Members providing discipline, wise guidance and counsel as appropriate. External: Maintain contact with community groups, schools, Members' parents and others required and approved by the Executive Director. Publicize the club in order to increase awareness whenever possible in order to increase financial support and expand outreach efforts.Skills/Knowledge RequiredHigh school diploma or equivalent required. Knowledge of youth development; ability to motivate and provide guidance to youth through establishing positive relationships with youth Members; demonstrated caring and respect exhibited toward Members. Ability to relate to the general public, parents and BGCCIL Members in a friendly, positive, and professional manner. Demonstrated ability to convey BGCCIL policies and procedures to Members, and to implement appropriate guidance and discipline policies. Ability to organize and supervise Members to maintain a safe and welcoming environment. Valid Illinois Drivers License. Good verbal and written communication skills. Demonstrated enthusiasm, energy and commitment in personal contact with Members, parents, supervisors and the general public.Physical RequirementsSitting and standing as needed. Full use of all limbs and at least one hand. Full verbal, color vision, and hearing ability. Lifting up to 50 pounds on occasion. Ability to intervene in a fight or control youth aged 6 to 18. Ability to drive motor vehicle preferred (with valid IL drivers license).Working ConditionsMay be exposed to outdoor weather conditions during all seasons. Limited exposure during winter. May be exposed to moderate to loud noise; unruly or irate youth and/or parents. May be exposed to potentially dangerous situations including youth fighting or bringing unauthorized materials onto premises. May be exposed to potentially dangerous medical situations; exposure to airborne diseases or infected blood while treating Members. Exposed to risk of vehicle accidents while driving or riding in agency vehicles. Risk of injury from being near, or participating in, athletic or recreational activities.