Job Description

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Provides direct leadership, instruction and motivation for students by teaching youth classes in gymnastics to various age groups. Creates positive, nurturing relationships with children, while building cooperative relationships with parents/caregivers.

Requirements

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Program Assistants will assist with designing and delivering lesson plans in the designated area tailored to the skills and interests of each age group.
• Assist in instruction of a group in accordance with YMCA guidelines.
• Assist in planning, setup and delivering a variety of activities within interest area that are age specific and that keep children’s engagement and interest high.
• Builds effective, authentic relationships with students and parents; helps them connect with each other and the YMCA. Encourages parent involvement and identifies potential volunteers.
• Responsible for organized class management ensuring all participants can be seen at all times.
• Assists with instruction that is designed for the appropriate age group. Ensures participants understandings of instruction.
• Uses teachable moments to discuss character development and provides constructive feedback during class session using positive motivation techniques.
• Maintains records as required (i.e. attendance, progress reports, etc.).
• Attends staff meetings and trainings as scheduled.
• Follows all YMCA policies, rules, regulations and procedures, including emergency and safety procedures. Completes incident and accident reports as necessary.
• Utilize equipment appropriately with activities and incorporate skill development. Organizes and puts away needed class equipment. Clean up area after each session. Reports damaged equipment.
• Uphold, model, teach and put the four (4) core values of the YMCA into action in all activities - everyday: Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility.
• Create a positive and nurturing learning environment to instill and encourage youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

YMCA COMPETENCIES (Leader):

Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fund-raising.

Collaboration: Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view, and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.

Operational Effectiveness: Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience. Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures, and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.

Personal Growth: Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change, and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths and limitations and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS:

• Flexible schedule; Weekdays and/or weekends.
• Certifications: CPR, AED, Basic First Aid certification preferred.
• Previous experience working with children preferred.
• Must be able to demonstrate instructor skills in accordance with YMCA standards.
• Previous experience working with diverse populations preferred.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Sufficient strength, agility and mobility to perform essential functions. Ability to plan, lead and participate in a range of activities in accordance to instruction. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Must have the ability to instruct and actively observe participants. Ability to stand for long periods of time, walk, use hands, stoop, and crouch. Regularly lifts up to 10 – 50 pounds.