Program Assistant (3627)

Position Summary This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The Program Assistant (youth programs) creates positive, nurturing relationships with children while building cooperative relationships with parents/caregivers, staff, and partners. They promote and support the potential of all youth in programs and facilitate peer-to‑peer connections as part of the overall program experience. The role provides a quality experience to children that focuses on building achievement and belonging in youth and relationships among youth and within families. Essential Functions Nurture children through purposeful programming dedicated to building achievement and belonging in youth and relationships among youth and within families. Maintain close visual supervision of a group of assigned children, following ratios based on specific program/class. Ensure no child is left unsupervised or staff alone with a child at any time while attending program/class. Help children manage behavior using a positive approach, including proactive strategies, redirection and using constructive discipline with natural and logical consequences. Actively support the YMCA’s commitment to inclusion and compliance with the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) where appropriate. Plan and implement classes based on a specific topic and skill mastery, culminating in an exposition/showcase at the end of the session. Adhere to program standards including safety and cleanliness standards, maintain site and equipment, and maintain required program records in accordance with YMCA expectations. Cultivate positive relationships and maintain effective communication with parents. Engage parents as volunteers and connect them to the YMCA. Attend and participate in family events, program activities, staff meetings and trainings. Follow YMCA policies and procedures, including those related to medical and disciplinary situations, child abuse prevention and emergencies. Follow reporting procedures and proactively respond to situations to ensure a safe environment for all involved. Understand and comply with current federal, state, and local regulations, and YMCA policies and procedures at all times. Maintain a positive relationship with parents, other YMCA team members, and community partners. Model relationship‑building skills (including Listen First) in all interactions. Attend meetings and trainings, as needed. Uphold YMCA policies for safety, supervision, mandated reporting, and risk management. Demonstrate the Six Pillars of Character (Trustworthiness, Citizenship, Respect, Responsibility, Caring, Fairness) as well as the YMCA Core Values of caring, respect, honesty and responsibility in all dealings with members, guests, volunteers and fellow staff. Demonstrate competencies in and willingness to develop in the Cause‑Driven Leadership areas of mission advancement, collaboration, operational effectiveness and personal growth. Perform all other duties as assigned by the supervisor. YMCA Leadership Competencies (Critical for Success) Engaging Community Inclusion Critical Thinking & Decision Making Emotional Maturity Qualifications Age: 21 years or older. Education: High school diploma or equivalent. School‑issued work permit required for employees under 18. Related Experience: Previous experience working with school‑age children in a group setting (preferred). Ability to assist in planning, organization, and implementation of age‑appropriate/developmentally appropriate program activities around a specific focus. Prior experience with diverse populations preferred. Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with people from different backgrounds. Completed semester units in CD, human services, or related fields preferred. Specialized Skills: Strong character values (respect, responsibility, honesty, caring); strong communication skills; emotional maturity. Licenses & Certifications: Current approved First Aid; Adult, Infant and Child CPR Certifications. Completion of child‑abuse prevention training prior to first day in program. Work Environment / Minimum Physical Requirements Must have the physical, visual, and auditory ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodations. Ability to plan, lead, and participate in activities. Job performed in indoor as well as outdoor environments throughout the year, including water‑related activities. Ability to lift 30‑35 lbs. #J-18808-Ljbffr YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles