YMCA OF GREATER KALAMAZOO JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: Youth and Adult Sports Program Staff (Portage Location)

Status: Part-Time

Pay Rate: $13.73

Program Hours: Monday-Friday 2:00pm-7:30pm & Occasional Evening/Weekend

Reports to: Portage Youth and Adult Sports Coordinator

Position Summary:

We are seeking enthusiastic and dedicated Youth and Adult Sports Program Staff to engage and inspire youth ages 4-12 in our programs. The Youth and Adult Sports Program Staff will be responsible for creating a positive, safe, and welcoming environment while maintaining active supervision of all program spaces. This role involves mentoring youth, facilitating educational and recreational activities, and ensuring that all participants have a meaningful experience that supports their ability to Learn, Grow, and Thrive. Team members lead age-appropriate activities, teach fundamental skills across a variety of sports, and help ensure YMCA programs run smoothly and safely. This role is ideal for someone who loves being active, enjoys working with children, and brings a spirit of teamwork and encouragement to every interaction.

Our Culture:

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.

Essential Functions:

1. Youth Engagement:

• Build positive relationships with youth by actively engaging during activities, providing guidance and mentorship, and offering support with personal, social, and academic development to help youth learn, grow, and thrive.

1. Create a Safe and Welcoming Environment:

• Promote positive behavior and conflict resolution through proactive strategies, ensuring a safe and supportive environment. Follow all Y policy and procedures, including assisting with crisis management when necessary. Actively monitor the building to maintain cleanliness and orderliness, while documenting incidents, accidents, or concerns accordingly to Y policies.
• To ensure all children are safe from abuse and are able to learn, grow, and thrive, and, as required by Michigan law, to report any suspected incidence of child abuse or neglect to your supervisor and Children’s Protective Services (1-855-444-3911).

1. Program Facilitation:

• • Lead youth sports programs that teach foundational skills in sports such as soccer, basketball, flag football, t-ball, volleyball, and more
• • Assist in planning, organizing, and leading activities that promote positive youth development, including educational workshops, recreational activities, special events, and leadership initiatives.
• • Help with the setup and breakdown of program areas, ensuring activities run smoothly.

1. Communication and Reporting:

• Maintain open communication with parents/guardians, relevant stakeholders and Y staff.
• Provide feedback and input during team meetings to improve program effectiveness.
• Participate in ongoing training and professional development opportunities to enhance skills and stay informed on best practices in youth development.
• Contribute to creating a positive and supportive team culture that prioritizes youth success.

1. Other Tasks as assigned

YMCA Competencies (Leader)

Mission and Community Oriented: Accepts and demonstrates YMCA values. Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions and perceptions. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs.

People Oriented: Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view and remains calm in challenging situations. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.

Results Oriented: Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience. Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another.

Personal Development Oriented: Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths and limitations and how they impact relationships. Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change and seeks opportunities in the change process.

Benefits:

• Paid sick leave
• 12% Funded Retirement Savings
• Free Family Membership and program/activity discounts