Afterschool Counselor
YOUNG MENS CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION OF SUMTER·Sumter, South Carolina
YOUNG MENS CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION OF SUMTER·Sumter, South Carolina
Supervise and lead children ages 4-12 in an afterschool program, facilitating educational and physical activities. Ensure a safe, quality environment consistent with YMCA values while maintaining positive relationships with parents and staff.
This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Under the direction of the Youth Development Director, afterschool counselors will provide direction and supervision of children in an off-site Y-Club Afterschool program. Counselors will manage groups of children ages 4-12 and lead club activities including group games, art/stem time, physical activity, swimming, and play. Counselors will uphold the standard of ensuring that all programs operate in a quality manner consistent with the Y-Club Afterschool model, Y mission, cause and values. Counselors participate in both indoor and outdoor activities year-round and act as positive role models for youth. Additional hours scheduled for early release days, holiday camps, Kid’s Day Outs, Parent’s Night Out and extended care. 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. QualificationsESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Supervises children; keep site and sound supervision and accurate head counts of group at all times. Plans and facilitates program activities and clubs that are culturally relevant, developmentally appropriate and consistent with YMCA values. Assists children in daily needs including but not limited to washing hands, using the restroom, picking up belongings, assisting with meals and packing or unpacking of belongings. Adheres to program standards including safety and cleanliness standards. Attends staff meetings and trainings. Follows YMCA policies and procedures, including those related to medical and disciplinary situations, drop-off/pick up procedures, supervision, incident reports, child abuse prevention and emergencies, completing appropriate paperwork when needed. Cultivates and maintains positive relationships with parents, children and staff. Models relationship-building skills (including Listen First) in all interactions. Performs other duties as assigned. LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES: Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Ys values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fund-raising.
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 age of 18. Availability to work 2:00-6:00pm shift times, with additional flexibility for early release days, days off of school, and Parent's Night Outs. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with children, parents, and colleagues. Patience, empathy, and enthusiasm for working with children of diverse backgrounds and abilities. Previous experience working with children in a large group setting. Ability to lead, plan, organize and implement program activities in a variety of settings, including outdoors and swimming. Must be able to remain active, energetic and positive throughout the program day. Ability to complete the required paid training prior to start date. Passion for the YMCA mission and commitment to serving the community. WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Ability to frequently stand, sit, walk, talk, hear, type, run, jump, kick, catch, throw, climb, kneel, bend, reach, balance, crouch or crawl, climb and/or balance, reach with hands and arms, handle or feel, stoop, lift/move and carry approximately 35 lbs, and use hands and fingers. Must be able to lift and/or maneuver large gym or office equipment. Special vision abilities required distance, peripheral, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. May be required to be outside for long periods of time. Must possess good analytical, auditory, and verbal capabilities in order to communicate adequately. Must be able to get into swimming pool. Starting Salary: $10.00 wage plan based on years of experience.
Must be at least 18 years old with previous experience working with children in large group settings. Requires the ability to remain physically active and availability for afternoon shifts and occasional special events.
Market context
Afterschool Counselor roles in South Carolina are typically driven by ongoing demand for safe, supervised childcare before and after school, especially for candidates with experience leading large groups of children. Competition often centers on reliability, comfort with active supervision, and current CPR, First Aid, AED, and child protection training. Before applying, confirm your certifications are current and review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here, which condense the original job description to save you research time.
