Job Description

The YWCA of the City of New York (YWCA NYC) is on a mission to eliminate racism, empower women and promote peace, justice and dignity for all. We are a multiracial women’s social justice organization dedicated to addressing issues that emerge at the intersection of race, class and gender. Through culturally responsive programming, we create pathways for the next generation of leaders to reach for their dreams and drive social change. Founded in 1858, the YW-NYC is the first YW in the United States and part of an international movement of YWs worldwide. We currently serve 3,000 New York City youth through leadership, STEAAM and advocacy training through our Girls Initiatives for high school students, and through afterschool programs for elementary and middle school students in culturally diverse communities in NYC.

Under the leadership of the Program Director and Assistant Director, the Group Leader oversees the day-to-day functioning, development and engagement of elementary and/or middle school students in the after-school program. The Group Leader is caring, creative, passionate about maintaining the safety and well-being of students, and ensures that all group interactions support the YW-NYC’s mission to eliminate racism and empower women and girls, promoting peace, justice and liberty for all.

A successful Group Leader will: bring a positive youth development lens to the role; build meaningful relationships with program participants and families; support the academic, physical, social, and emotional safety and development of students; manage administrative tasks in a timely and efficient manner; assist and deliver developmentally appropriate curricula in alignment with YW-NYC’s program standards; communicate and collaborate professionally and effectively with colleagues and stakeholders; and demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and anti-racism.

Responsibilities:

Program Development & Relationship Building

• Utilize positive youth development principles to enhance program quality and support growth in young people
• Plan, facilitate and deliver purposeful engaging theme based academic, enrichment and recreational activities including but not limited to literacy, STEM, and the arts
• Contribute to the planning and presentation of culminating events and showcases
• Create and submit thoughtful lesson plans in alignment with the theme for assigned activities
• Assist and support specialists in program facilitation and facilitation of activities and lessons
• Plan, facilitate and deliver age-appropriate clubs and related activities
• Provide homework help to students daily
• Support Holiday Camp days through recruitment, facilitation, and delivery of theme-based activities, and/or attending scheduled trips and outings
• Maintain responsibility for program supplies and proper use of all facilities
• Reinforce YW-NYC philosophies within all interactions and programming

Supervision

• Oversee the day-to-day management and supervision of a group of no more than 20 students, maintaining SACC mandated ratio requirements
• Provide adequate supervision of participants while maintaining a physically and emotionally safe and nurturing environment
• Support arrival, dismissal, and snack process daily
• Ensure effective behavior management and a positive learning environment
• Ensure the engagement of students during activities
• Serve as a positive role model for participants by demonstrating professional language and behavior
• Administration & Professional Development
• Perform other duties as assigned by Supervisor or YW staff as it pertains to the needs of the program and organization
• Complete a at least 15 hours of professional development training hours annually
• Attend and participate in YW and site-based staff meetings
• Communicate effectively and professionally with supervisor, colleagues, parents, school, stakeholders and YW staff
• Maintain accurate attendance records, student files and lesson plans

Qualifications:

• Associate’s/bachelor’s degree preferred or commensurate experience
• 2+ years working in OST programs or other education/youth programs
• Effective behavioral management skills
• Knowledge of anti-racism and gender equity principles and practices
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills
• Strong capabilities in math, reading, and other general academic studies
• Bilingual (Spanish/English) a bonus
• Strong work ethic and professional values
• Commitment to promoting YW-NYC’s social justice mission and educational and youth development philosophy

This is a full-time, temporary seasonal position for the Summer Rising program. Candidates must be available Monday through Friday between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Work schedules and daily hours will be assigned based on the Program Director’s request and operational needs. The position runs from June 22, 2026, through August 14, 2026. All staff are required to attend a mandatory in-person training during the week of June 22, 2026, through June 26, 2026, prior to or at the start of program operations. The Group Leader must be able to sit and stand for extended periods of time and use a computer and phone to communicate with staff, students, and partners. Reasonable accommodations will be provided when necessary for candidates who can perform the essential functions of the role. The salary rate is commensurate with credentials and experience.

The YWCA of the City of New York is an equal opportunity employer and contractor. We provide equal employment and contracting opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. The YWCA of New York City utilizes only job-related criteria in making decisions concerning applicants and employees. Moreover, we encourage applicants from historically underrepresented communities to apply.

To apply, please submit a resume and a cover letter that addresses your qualifications and ability to fulfill the responsibilities outlined above.

Benefits we offer:

Eligibility requirement rules apply

YWCA Retirement Plan

403(b) Plan

Paid time off

UNUM Voluntary insurance (Additional Life, Life AD&D, Dep. Life)