Salary: $25.00 Hourly

The YMCA of Greater New York is here for all New Yorkers — to empower youth, improve health, and strengthen community. Founded in 1852, today the Y serves a diverse population of more than half a million New Yorkers who learn, grow, and thrive through programs and services at our 24 branches. Community is the cornerstone of the Y. Together, we connect active, engaged New Yorkers to build stronger communities.

To help fulfill our mission, we cultivate a culture of learning, leading, and collaboration to enhance community impact. Through our talented staff and “LEAP” career framework (Leadership, Empowerment, Accountability, Personal Growth), we are committed to a people-first approach that fosters trust, inclusion, growth, and development for all. 

The Flushing YMCA is seeking an Activity Specialist. Under the supervision of the Site Director, the Activity Specialist will play a critical role in providing academic enhancement and enrichment in the Community School program, including Holiday Camps and engagement events. The Activity Specialist will be responsible for providing a safe and positive environment for school-age children, providing opportunities for learning, interaction, and academic/personal growth. Specifically, the Activity Specialist will prepare and provide age-appropriate art instructions for grades 6 through 8 in the Community Schools program located in JHS 189 Daniel Carter Beard.

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensure the health, safety, and well-being of participants in the program by providing appropriate supervision at all times.

• Plan and implement meaningful activities and special events that are age-appropriate, exciting, challenging, and values-based in art.

• Teach participants the fundamentals of art, including activities that build their level of skill, confidence, and assist participants in compiling an art portfolio to be used in applying to specialized art-focused high schools.

• Coordinate and present a culminating performance at the end of the program cycle, if applicable.

• Work cooperatively with Afterschool Counselors, professional staff, teachers, and other program and school staff.

• Promote an inclusive, welcoming, and respectful environment that embraces the diversity of all participants.

• Create and maintain a strength-based, youth-focused atmosphere that is consistent and sensitive to the needs of participants with learning, emotional, or behavioral differences.

• Maintain accurate program documentation (sign-in/out forms, behavior reports, and incident reports, as appropriate).

• Serve as a positive role model for participants.

• Work with the Site Director to secure and maintain all equipment or supplies needed for the Art Program.

• Understand and communicate the YMCA’s core values and the goals of the Y Afterschool Program to participants and caregivers.

• Develop and maintain positive relationships with parents and caregivers through regular communication about their child’s strengths and areas of growth.

• Prepare the learning environment, lessons, and necessary supplies for art activities.

• Actively participate in training sessions, designated meetings, and special events.

• Adhere to all Department of Health, YMCA of Greater New York, and funder standards, expectations, and regulations.

Desired Skills & Experience:

• High School diploma or equivalent required. College credits and formal education in art or education preferred, or equivalent work experience. 

• Minimum of two (2) years of experience working with youth, specifically in the area of art, and planning age-appropriate activities in a group setting.

• Formal certification in art required.

• Knowledge of youth development stages.

• Content expert in designated activity.

• Knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

• Strong interpersonal skills, leadership qualities, and comfortable working with diverse youth and adults. 

Benefits:
The YMCA of Greater New York offers a variety of benefits to its staff members, including retirement benefits, medical, paid time off, free YMCA membership, and more! Benefit eligibility is determined by an individual’s employment status (i.e., full-time or part-time), tenure, and/or the number of hours scheduled to work. Click here for more information.

How to Apply:
If you would like to be a member of our dynamic team, please complete our online application and submit your résumé and a thoughtful cover letter that explains your interest in the role and our organization.

If you are a current YMCA employee, please submit your application through the Internal Career Site in Cornerstone.