Joliet Before & After School Counselor

Job Location: Joliet Community YMCA - Joliet, IL 60431. Position Type: Seasonal. Salary Range: $15.75 - $16.75 hourly. Join Our Team and Make Every Moment Count! Are you passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of children and families? As a Counselor in our Before and After School Care program, you'll play a vital role in providing a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment for children to grow, learn, and thrive. From leading engaging activities and games to fostering meaningful relationships with our young participants, your creativity, enthusiasm, and dedication will be the driving force behind our program's success. Imagine the joy of helping children discover new interests, develop essential life skills, and build lasting friendships with their peers. Whether you're assisting with homework, organizing fun group activities, or simply lending a listening ear, you'll be making a difference in the lives of the children and families we serve each and every day. Together, we'll create a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential. This isn't just a job – it's an opportunity to be a role model, a mentor, and a source of inspiration for the children in our care. So, are you ready to embark on a rewarding journey where every moment counts? POSITION SUMMARY Responsible for the safety and security of all children under your supervision. Provide leadership for before and after school youth programs for children 5‑12 years of age. Encourage children to participate in daily enrichment group activities. Curriculum includes, but is not limited to: field trips, character development activities, arts and crafts, swimming, nature walks, outdoor/indoor games, and general recreation. Ensure all children are well supervised and participating in safe activities at all times and follow all YMCA policies and procedures. Provide a quality experience to children and parents focused on YMCA core values: caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. Shift Available: 6:45am - 9:00am, 3:00pm - 6:00pm OUR CULTURE Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Assume responsibility for the safety and well-being of all program participants at all times and report any problems with staff, children or parents to Director. Follow YMCA policy and procedures, including those related to medical and disciplinary situations, child abuse prevention and emergencies. Help plan, implement and supervise group activities according to the goals and plans of the Greater Joliet Area YMCA. Provide a high level of customer service while interacting with school personnel, YMCA members, guests, and staff. Develop a positive working relationship with program participants and parents. Ensure the proper maintenance of storage areas, equipment and supplies. Actively participate in all programming curriculum. Assist with the daily set up and clean-up of activity area, craft projects and snack. Know and adhere to all school policies and guidelines, and be respectful of shared space between the school and program. Attend all staff meetings and trainings. Be a positive role model for the parents, staff and children. Upon pick up, required to confirm authorized person is able to pick up student(s) by verifying their photo ID. Responsible for cleaning/disinfecting all high touch areas on a regular basis and as needed. Accepts other duties as deemed appropriate within scope of position. QUALIFICATIONS At least 16 years of age. Previous experience working with children preferably in a childcare setting. CPR, First Aid, AED certifications and Child Abuse Prevention training required before employment. Previous experience with diverse populations preferred. PHYSICAL DEMANDS Ability to plan, lead and participate in a range of activities in a variety of outdoor/indoor settings. PART‑TIME BENEFITS FREE Y Membership 25% off on Y programming Participation in the Y’s retirement plan (when eligibility requirements have been met) #J-18808-Ljbffr Greater Joliet Area YMCA