Youth Leader/Mentor (School Year)

Youth Operational Lead

About the Organization
Higher Ground Youth & Family Services is a non-profit family resource center that was founded in 2013 to provide wrap-around services, family support and community resources to youth and families in Orange County, CA. Higher Ground was founded with a mission of expanding purpose, possibilities, and hope for youth and families living in under-resourced communities.

Position Summary
Higher Ground Youth & Family Services is seeking a talented and enthusiastic Youth Operational Lead to join our organization. As a Youth Operational Lead, you will be responsible for providing guidance, support, and mentorship to young people within the organization in an after-school program setting. You will facilitate various activities and programs aimed at promoting personal growth, leadership development, and positive social engagement among youth participants. Through your leadership and role modeling, you will inspire and empower young people to reach their full potential and become active contributors to their communities.

Essential Duties

• Provide individualized support and mentorship to youth participants, offering guidance, encouragement, and advice on personal and academic matters.
• Serve as a positive role model for youth participants, demonstrating integrity, respect, and responsibility in all interactions through the promotion of Jackie Robinsons Nine Core Values.
• Encourage youth involvement in community initiatives and advocacy efforts, promoting social responsibility and civic engagement.
• Address conflicts and issues among youth participants in a constructive and respectful manner, promoting conflict resolution and peer mediation skills.
• Ensure the safety and well-being of youth participants during program activities, adhering to relevant safety protocols and guidelines.
• Plan and execute a variety of engaging recreational activities such as games, sports, arts, and crafts, ensuring that they are inclusive and enjoyable for all participants.
• Educate children on the importance of personal hygiene practices and proper use of technology, providing guidance and instruction to promote healthy habits.
• Help maintain program facilities and equipment by performing basic maintenance tasks such as field upkeep, equipment cleaning, and storage organization.
• Set up program areas before activities, ensuring they are organized, clean, and equipped with necessary materials and supplies for a smooth and efficient operation.
• Attend staff meetings to ensure adherence to all policies and procedures, contributing to discussions and decision-making processes.
• Distribute Think Sheets and maintain regular communication with office staff and behavior interventionists, providing support and updates as needed.
• Offer direction and support to interns and volunteers assisting with the group, ensuring they understand their roles and responsibilities.
• Work collaboratively with other staff members to create a cohesive and supportive environment, sharing ideas and resources to enhance program effectiveness.
• Communicate via Slack with staff to facilitate smooth operations and address any issues promptly.
• Additionally, may be required to perform other tasks and duties as assigned by management.
  
  

Required Education & Experience

• Previous experience working with youth in a leadership or mentoring capacity, preferably in a community-based or educational setting.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage and connect with youth from diverse backgrounds.
• Passion for youth development and a commitment to empowering young people to succeed.
• Ability to establish boundaries, maintain confidentiality, and handle sensitive issues with professionalism and discretion.
• CPR/First Aid certification preferred.

Physical Demands
The following physical requirements outline the necessary capabilities for an employee to effectively carry out the essential duties of this position. In the execution of job responsibilities, the employee will frequently engage in verbal communication and auditory perception. Additionally, this role mandates precise visual acuity, including the capacity for close-range vision and the ability to focus as required. Tasks may also involve lifting up to 40 pounds and setting up various recreational activities. Expectation to stand and walk for extended periods, especially during outdoor activities and program supervision. Participation in outdoor activities, which may involve exposure to varying weather conditions such as heat, cold, or rain.

Compensation & Schedule
The Youth Operational Leader role is a part-time, exempt position based in Anaheim, CA. Compensation for this position falls within the range of $16 to $17 per hour, depending on experience. Schedule will typically be Monday through Friday, and varies based on the school calendar schedule.

Conditions of Employment
Higher Ground Youth and Family Services seeks to provide a safe and healthy environment for their staff and participants. As part of this commitment, all applicants who accept an offer of employment must comply with the following conditions of employment:

• Background Check and Live Scan
• Legal Right to work in the United States (I-9), Higher Ground does not sponsor employment visas, such as H-1B.
• Drug Free Environment
• Active work permit (if under 18 years of age)

Equal Opportunity Statement
Higher Ground Youth and Family Services adheres to the principles of equal opportunity employment. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, religion, national origin, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, age, or any other category protected by local, state, or federal laws. We are dedicated to fostering a workplace environment that embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion.