Adaptive Needs Counselor

As a thought‑leader and best‑in‑class provider in education, wellness, youth development, and community‑building, The YMCA of Metro Atlanta is one of the oldest and most essential non‑profits serving in Atlanta. Today, we’re looking for you to join us as we carry out our mission to positively impact lives and communities across the state. At the Y, we’re an association of like‑minded people – staff, volunteers, and members – on the forefront of a movement to ensure that everyone, especially children, experiences an equal opportunity to reach their full potential. In the course of a year we provide more than 3,000 children, ages 6 weeks through pre‑K, with high‑quality literacy and STEAM‑infused learning; give 58,000 youth and teens access to sports, aquatics, day and resident camps, teen leadership development programs, and employment opportunities; provide over 200,000 members with programs, services, and facilities to enjoy connection and maintain wellness regardless of age; and engage over 25,000 volunteers and donors from across Atlanta to share in the gift of supporting their communities. Nature and Scope Under the direction of the Youth Development Director, the Adaptive Needs Counselor will be primarily responsible for supporting the adaptive needs program and for the successful achievement of providing guidance, safety, leadership, values education and enjoyment for children served by our adaptive need programming. Responsibilities (including, but not limited to) Implementation of programming that promotes social distancing and safety protocol. Carry out daily program tasks related directly to the position’s scope and responsibility. Stay updated on current issues regarding adaptive needs programming. Promote, monitor, evaluate, and ensure that all programs run smoothly with a high level of service to participants. Maintain branch and association certifications in CPR, Metro Atlanta YMCA new staff orientation and branch off‑site emergency procedures, and any other required certifications and/or training required by the Metro Atlanta YMCA. Assist as needed in all aspects of the YMCA and its community. Responsible for maintaining and reporting incident/accident paperwork. Critical Competencies Based on Needs Specific to Role Maintain a safe and healthy environment for staff and children. Provide sound, caring, and positive leadership for children. Maintain a safe and fun environment for children. Provide extraordinary customer service to parents. Recognize and implement safety standards in all program activities. Participate effectively with other staff in implementing creative and fun adaptive need programming. Understand the mission and values of the YMCA and demonstrate and teach them. Communicate positively with parents and staff. Attend all staff training. Minimum Requirements High school diploma in progress or completed, or GED. Must be at least 18 years of age. 1–2 years’ experience working with children in a structured setting. Current first aid/CPR certification; must obtain any other certifications for the position. Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills. Ability to handle multiple tasks, work independently, problem‑solve, and possess effective time‑management skills. Strong customer service skills and personal commitment to service and hospitality. Pass a criminal background check, BFTS background check, and drug screening. CPR within 30 days of employment and maintain it throughout employment. Ergonomics Ability to work actively outdoors and/or indoors while supervising children. Ability to climb, walk, run, stoop, squat, or kneel. Ability to lift and carry equipment to appropriate destinations or affect the carrying of such equipment. Ability to use senses which enable safe supervision, including seeing and/or hearing. Employment Requirements Ability to pass a pre‑employment background check including criminal record check, drug screening, motor vehicle record (MVR) and reference check according to company policy. Must be legally eligible to work in the U.S. without current or future sponsorship. Location Carl E. Sanders Family YMCA BkHd The YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law. #J-18808-Ljbffr YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta