Youth Development Specialist
Organization: New Jersey YMCA State Alliance (NJYSA)
Locations: Multiple Locations, In-person
Required Education Level: Must have completed 12 credit hours within a related major and/or related coursework and must have a minimum of 2.5 GPA
Time Commitment: Determined by academic program
Relevant Academic Disciplines: Education, Childhood Development, Health & Physical Education, Sports Management, Health Sciences, and other related fields
Contact: Laissa.Gibson@yalliance.org
INTERNSHIP DESCRIPTION:
NJYSA is looking for interns to serve at their local YMCA this fall! The YMCA provides a myriad of programs and services for all populations and continues to impact the community positively every day. This internship will support YMCA youth development programs by enhancing youth experiences at the Y.
SUMMARY:
Under the supervision of the assigned director, the intern will learn how youth programs are developed for different age groups and the process used by educational professionals to curate a curriculum that is both stimulating and enjoyable. Youth programs are consistently being changed and improved to give children the best foundation and tools to lead happy and healthy lives. The Y offers daycare programs, pre-kindergarten, school-age childcare, and many other programs and activities for youth and teens (Team sports, camp, clubs, and events). This internship will allow the intern to study youth development including physical, mental, and social behaviors; how they interact with others, their levels of physical activity, creativity, and much more. The intern will model, create, and maintain a positive environment that is inclusive, accepting, and safe.
PROJECTS AND TASKS
- Work with Program Director to create educational, engaging, enjoyable, and purposeful lesson plans.
- Plan daily schedules for pre-K through school-age children and lead and manage activities.
- Assist and lead youth sports programs and work with volunteer coaches.
- Research topics and deliver educational presentations to children on healthy lifestyle habits.
- Assist with planning and preparing YMCA events for children and families.
- Support the day-to-day operations of the programs to ensure adherence to policy and compliance.
- Attend and participate in all related YMCA training and staff meetings.
- Regularly propose new program initiatives for youth development.
- Propose a new funding opportunity for Y programs.
- Complete other tasks and assignments as requested.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Must be at least 18 years of age or older.
- Must be currently enrolled in an accredited academic institution with successful completion of sophomore or junior year.
- Complete YMCA Orientation & Training.
- Complete necessary clearances and background checks.
- Strong interpersonal skills and team oriented.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Flexibility, resourcefulness, high energy, and ability to adapt to changing needs.
- Ability to present a positive image to participants, families, colleagues, supervisors, and the community.
OVERALL
- Interns will experience opportunities for personal and professional growth through hands-on learning and appropriate training.
- Interns will uphold and exemplify the principles of the YMCA, including caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
- Interns will be responsible for strict adherence to all YMCA policies and procedures related to safety, conduct rules, and other regulations.
EFFECT ON END RESULTS:
As an intern for the YMCA, the intern will be able to demonstrate skills in the following areas: planning, programming, marketing, implementation, and facilitation of a variety of programs and events in the areas of Sports, Wellness, and Youth Development.
To apply for this internship, please email laissa.gibson@yalliance.org with your name, resume (preferably as a PDF), and the name of the internship you are applying for.