Activity Specialist: Leadership & College Readiness

The YMCA of Greater New York is a longstanding nonprofit organization committed to empowering youth, improving health, and strengthening communities throughout the New York metropolitan area. Founded in 1852, the YMCA of Greater New York operates 24 branches, serving over half a million diverse individuals each year. As a community-centered organization, the Y fosters environments where active New Yorkers can connect, learn, grow, and thrive together. The foundation of the YMCA is rooted in its commitment to inclusion, leadership development, and community engagement, which it advances through comprehensive programs and services tailored for all ages.

The YMCA of Greater New York employs a people-first approach emphasizing leadership, empowerment, accountability, and personal growth (known as the "LEAP" career framework). This culture of learning and collaboration enables staff to make meaningful impacts in the communities they serve. The organization offers a supportive workplace that encourages professional development, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring that all members and employees feel welcomed and valued.

This Role: The Vanderbilt YMCA is currently seeking an Activity Specialist to join its Afterschool team. This position provides an hourly wage of $30.00 and is a rewarding opportunity for individuals passionate about youth development, education, and community service. The Activity Specialist will be responsible for supporting school-age children in the YMCA Afterschool program, including Holiday Camps, by delivering academic enhancement and enrichment activities.

In this role, the Activity Specialist will create and implement a dynamic leadership curriculum designed to build essential life skills such as decision-making, effective communication, teamwork, ethical thinking, problem-solving, and financial literacy among participants. This program incorporates both school and community-based engagement, fostering civic responsibility and encouraging active participation in academic and social settings.

The Activity Specialist will lead various leadership initiatives, including service-learning projects, civic engagement opportunities, and academic/career transition support. These initiatives aim to nurture responsible citizenship, support educational milestones, and guide youth as they explore future academic and career pathways.

A key aspect of the role is fostering an inclusive, welcoming atmosphere that respects the diversity of all children and is sensitive to those with learning, emotional, or behavioral differences. The Activity Specialist is responsible for maintaining the health, safety, and wellbeing of program participants through vigilant supervision and adherence to relevant standards and regulations set by the YMCA, Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), Department of Health (DOH), and school partners.

Collaboration is essential in this role, requiring work alongside Afterschool Group Leaders, professional staff, teachers, program partners, and school personnel to ensure a cohesive and supportive environment for the children. Documentation of program attendance, behavior reports, and incident reports is part of the daily responsibilities. The Activity Specialist serves as a positive role model, clearly communicating YMCA values and program goals to children and caregivers alike.

Participation in ongoing training, meetings, and special events is expected to maintain a high standard of program quality and foster personal and professional growth. This position offers a unique opportunity to develop leadership and interpersonal skills while making a tangible difference in the lives of youth and families within New York City.