Y Club Youth Leader

YMCA of Greater Kansas City; Shawnee (KS); On-site; USD 17,047 - 24,280; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Free YMCA membership

Ongoing training and professional development

Job summary

The YMCA of Greater Kansas City is seeking Youth Development Assistants and Leaders to join our Y Club program for elementary-aged children. In this role, you will lead fun and safe activities, ensuring kids thrive in a nurturing environment.

We offer flexible scheduling, professional development, and a free YMCA membership. Ideal candidates are energetic, caring, and passionate about working with children.

Start your career with us; it’s a great opportunity for high school students or those looking to impact children’s lives positively!

Qualifications

• Ability to interact effectively with diverse backgrounds.
• Capacity to supervise various activities.
• Desire to help children learn and grow.

Responsibilities

• Lead engaging activities, including games and arts and crafts.
• Ensure kid safety by enforcing rules and guidelines.
• Build positive relationships with kids, families, and school staff.

Skills

Experience with school-age children

Ability to engage and supervise children

General understanding of computer technology

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

One year or more of college preferred

Job description

Overview

Are you passionate about helping kids learn, grow, and thrive? Join the YMCA of Greater Kansas City in our Y Club before and after school program. This position plays a meaningful role in creating a fun, safe, and supportive environment for elementary‑aged children. You'll lead fun activities with a group of children, including crafts, sports, snack time and more!

Two Roles. One Mission.

Youth Development Assistant (Ages 16+)

Support role, great for high school students or those just starting out.

Youth Development Leader (Ages 18+)

Lead your own group of kids with more responsibility and independence.

Why You’ll Love This Role

• Flexible schedule — mornings, afternoons, or both
• Consistent part‑time hours (done by 6pm)
• Free YMCA membership
• Ongoing training and professional development
• Make a real impact on kids every day
• Great experience for anyone interested in education, childcare, or youth work

Schedule & Pay

Schedule: Weekday mornings before school and/or afternoons after school until 6 pm.

Youth Development Leader: $15.50/hour starting

Youth Development Assistant: $15.00/hour starting

(Increases based on experience and education)

OUR CULTURE:

The YMCA of Greater Kansas City’s mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. It’s who we are, who we aspire to be and how we show up every day. We are cause‑driven. We don’t just show up, we show up with purpose. 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.

Responsibilities

• Lead fun age‑appropriate activities; including games, arts and crafts, STEM projects, and physical activity.
• Keep kids safe by teaching and enforcing safety rules and responding quickly and appropriately in emergencies.
• Guide behavior by teaching and redirecting rather than scolding — enforcing rules firmly while treating every child with dignity and respect.
• Verify photo ID before releasing children at pickup until you personally know each authorized adult.
• Build positive relationships with kids, families, school staff, and your YMCA teammates.
• Be dependable for your scheduled shifts, follow all YMCA, licensing, and school district policies, and help keep program spaces clean and organized.

Youth Development Leaders also provide direct supervision in leading a group of children on their own.

All youth development associates are mandated reporters under Kansas and Missouri law and must immediately report suspected child abuse or neglect, as well as any unsafe conditions, accidents, or injuries.

Qualifications

Who We’re Looking For

We have opportunities for both high school students (16+) and adults (18+). You don’t need formal experience — we value people who care about kids and are reliable.

• Previous experience working with school‑age children is a plus (babysitting, nannying, camp, childcare programs, etc.)
• Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions and perceptions
• Able to actively engage with and supervise children in a range of indoor and outdoor activities — this is an on‑your‑feet role that takes energy and alertness
• A genuine interest in helping kids learn, play, and grow
• Have a general understanding of computer technology.
• Tuberculosis Test Risk Assessment and State Health Assessment form within 30 days (in MO).

Youth Development Assistant

• Minimum age of 16.

Youth Leader Job Qualifications

• Minimum age of 18.
• High school diploma or equivalent required at Kansas sites.
• One year or more of college preferred.