Afterschool Counselor

The YMCA is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. With a presence in numerous locations across the United States, including various schools and community centers, the YMCA fosters environments where individuals and families can thrive. The organization offers a broad spectrum of programs designed to support all age groups, promote healthy lifestyles, and inspire personal growth. The YMCA is dedicated to inclusivity, safety, and community engagement, making it a trusted name in after-school and seasonal programs that contribute to the positive development of children and youth.

This job opportunity is for the position of Afterschool Youth Development Leader, which is a seasonal and part-time role aligned with the academic school calendar. The employment period typically starts in August and continues through May or June, corresponding with the school year. The role requires working weekday afternoons from 2:00 PM to 6:30 PM at elementary schools located in the Austin, Manor, and Kyle/Buda areas. This scheduling offers the advantage of having weekends off, which is beneficial for work-life balance, and includes unique perks such as a complimentary membership to YMCA facilities.

As an Afterschool Youth Development Leader, you will play a crucial part in creating a safe, engaging, and supportive environment for children ages 4 to 12. The primary focus of this role is to lead and facilitate enriching activities that contribute to social-emotional growth, academic support, and overall fun during the students’ after-school hours. This is a rewarding position where you have the opportunity to directly influence children’s daily experiences by making afternoons enjoyable, educational, and encouraging. You will be responsible for supervising groups of children to ensure their safety and positive participation while promoting the YMCA’s core values, including caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

Your work will involve planning and implementing a diverse range of activities such as games, arts and crafts, STEM projects, and outdoor play. These activities are designed to foster creativity, teamwork, and learning while supporting each child’s individual needs and interests. You will be expected to follow structured curriculum and lesson plans but also adapt them creatively to fit the dynamic needs of the participants on any given day. Communication is vital in this role, as you will interact regularly with children, their families, and other staff, ensuring a transparent and collaborative environment.

Additionally, you will manage operational aspects of the program including attendance tracking, preparation of materials, documentation, and ensuring sanitation and safety during snack times. Participating in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development sessions is also part of the job to continuously enhance the quality and effectiveness of the program. This position allows you to embody and champion the YMCA’s mission, vision, and values, thereby contributing positively to the community by supporting youth development and fostering a culture of inclusion and belonging.

Overall, this role offers a meaningful and dynamic opportunity to engage with children in a supportive afterschool environment, develop your leadership skills, and promote a healthy, fun, and inclusive space where all children feel welcomed and encouraged to grow throughout the school year. The compensation for this position is $18 per hour, reflecting the valuable contribution you will make toward nurturing the next generation.