About Job

Position Summary

Reports to: Youth Development Leadership

The Afterschool Counselor is responsible for creating a safe, engaging, and supportive environment for children in the YMCA’s afterschool program. This role focuses on supervising students, leading activities, and fostering social and emotional development. The Afterschool Counselor ensures all interactions and programming align with the YMCA’s mission of youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

Culture Statement

The culture of the Y is rooted in our Christian mission and core values. We strive every day to collectively embody our purpose of serving as a catalyst to transform lives and communities through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. We are respectful – we treat each other and those we serve as we hope to be treated ourselves. We are caring – we show a sincere concern for others and their well-being. We are honest – we are truthful in what we say and what we do, and we do not make promises we do not intend to keep. We are responsible – we are good stewards of our resources, strive for excellence and our actions are accountable to those we serve. We are innovative – we harness creativity, are solution minded and forward thinking. We lead with faith.

Essential Functions

Supervise and engage with children in a safe, structured, and positive afterschool environment.

Plan and lead age-appropriate activities, including arts, games, sports, and educational enrichment.

Ensure safety and well-being of all participants by following YMCA policies and child supervision protocols.

Provide positive behavior guidance, modeling respect, responsibility, and inclusion.

Assist with homework help and academic support, encouraging a love for learning.

Communicate effectively with parents and guardians regarding their child’s progress and any concerns.

Support snack distribution and maintain a clean, organized program space.

Ensure proper check-in and check-out procedures are followed, maintaining accurate attendance records.

Collaborate with team members and supervisors to create a fun and welcoming program experience.

Participate in staff meetings and training sessions to stay informed on best practices and program updates.

Performs other duties and tasks as assigned by leadership

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

Must be at least 16 years of age at the time of application.

Enthusiasm for working with children and a willingness to learn.

Strong communication and interpersonal skills to engage with children, parents, and team members.

Ability to create a positive, structured, and fun environment while ensuring safety.

CPR, First Aid, and AED certification (or willingness to obtain within 30 days of hire, training provided).

Ability to follow instructions and work as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.

Reliable, punctual, and responsible, with a commitment to maintaining a safe space for children.

Commitment to the YMCA’s mission, values, and fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.

All YMCA team members are expected to maintain a current and active status for all safety, risk, and programming certifications defined by the YMCA of Greater Charlotte.

Preferred Qualifications

Previous expereince working with children.

Working Conditions

Walking

Sitting

Stooping

Standing

Vision

Kneeling

Writing

Climbing

Hearing

Running

Lifting/Pushing/Pulling(50lbs)

Competencies

EMOTIONAL MATURITY: Demonstrates ability to understand and manage emotions effectively in all situations

COMMUNICATION & INFLUENCE: Listens and expresses self effectively and in a way that engages, inspires, and builds commitment to the Y’s cause

PROGRAM/PROJECT MANAGEMENT: Ensures program or project goals are met and intended impact occurs

DEVELOPING SELF & OTHERS: Develops self and supports others (e.g., staff, volunteers, members, program participants), both formally and informally, to achieve their highest potential

To learn more about our Y-USA Leadership Competencies, please click here:

The midpoint for this position is $11.87, we typically offer new hires between the min-mid of the range unless they have higher than average experience for this role.