Activity Specialist- Visual Arts at Young Women's Christian Association of the City of New York

Who We Are

The YWCA of the City of New York is a dynamic, mission-driven organization dedicated to empowering women, girls, and families to achieve social, economic, and racial justice. We provide programs and services focused on economic empowerment, racial justice, and the health and well-being of women and girls. We are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive work environment where staff are encouraged to grow, thrive, and contribute to our mission.

Established in 1858, the YWCA NYC is one of the nation’s oldest nonprofit organizations committed to the personal and social development of women, their families, and their communities. In honor of this history, and in service of our mission, the YWCA NYC currently provides leadership and advocacy training for young women through our Girls Initiatives program, and youth development through our Out-of-School Time (OST) program for elementary and middle school students in culturally diverse communities in Brooklyn and Manhattan.

Job Summary

We are seeking caring, creative, and results-oriented Activity Specialists committed to positive youth development and capable of creating and implementing curriculum in an afterschool setting.

Key attributes of a successful Activity Specialist include the ability to manage complex and detailed tasks simultaneously; effectively integrate program philosophy and management policies consistent with the organization’s mission and goals; utilize analytical skills and creativity to implement program initiatives; and work both collaboratively and independently with key stakeholders and partnering organizations.

In this role, the Activity Specialist will plan, deliver, and supervise engaging, age-appropriate activities in a specialized focus area (such as culinary arts, STEM, or physical education) for participants in the YWCA after-school program. This position fosters a safe, inclusive, and inspiring environment where all students feel valued, supported, and encouraged to grow, while working closely with program leadership and school staff to align lessons with program objectives, prepare youth for showcases or events, and adapt curriculum to meet diverse needs.

Key Responsibilities

Program Planning & Delivery:

• Design, plan, and facilitate developmentally appropriate lessons and activities in assigned specialty area, incorporating project-based learning to deepen engagement and connect learning to real-world applications.
• Ensure curriculum aligns with youth development principles, program goals, and student interests.
• Adapt curriculum and teaching strategies to meet the diverse learning needs and abilities of participants.
• Maintain a daily minimum of 15 participants in the activity. 

Supervision & Safety:

• Supervise participants at all times, ensuring their safety and well-being in compliance with YWCA policies.
• Delegate roles to group leaders and program staff during class to support group facilitation (as applicable).
• Manage classroom effectively to create a positive, engaging learning environment.

Collaboration & Communication:

• Work closely with the Program Director and Education Specialist to align activities with schedules and overall program objectives.
• Communicate effectively with colleagues, school-day staff, and parents/guardians regarding student progress, activities, and events.

Program Support & Events

• Prepare participants to showcase skills at culminating events or special programs in partnership with school staff.
• Support field trips, community-building events, and other enrichment opportunities to enhance program impact.

Operations & Compliance:

• Set up, operate, and clean up activity space; maintain organization, inventory, and storage of supplies/equipment.
• Submit required program documentation in a timely and accurate manner.
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development to strengthen delivery and skills.
• Implement YWCA’s anti-racist and anti-sexist philosophy throughout program delivery.
• Contribute to program evaluation and continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications

• Associates degree or 2 years of college course work required; degree in related field preferred.
• 1–2 years’ experience facilitating youth or community-based activities in a specialty field (e.g., culinary arts, STEM, physical education).
• Strong classroom management and communication skills, with effective teaching strategies.
• Creative, adaptable, and culturally responsive.
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Must pass background check and fingerprint clearance.

This position averages 8 - 20 hours per week, typically between 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. on scheduled days, with some variation based on school needs. The Activity Specialist must be able to stand for extended periods of time. Must be able to travel and work across all YWCA program sites as needed.

Why work at YWCA of the City of New York?

There are many fantastic reasons to choose a career with YWCA-NYC. In addition to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity through our programs, YWCA-NYC offers the following Benefits and Rewards: 

• Competitive market salaries 
• PTO
• Free Mental Health Services with UNUM, through our Employee Assistance Program
• Professional development opportunities 

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To Apply: Please submit a resume and a cover letter that addresses your qualifications and ability to fulfill the responsibilities outlined above, as well as your salary requirements, to [email protected].

The YWCA of the City of New York is an equal opportunity employer and contractor. We provide equal employment and contracting opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

• FLSA: Non-Exempt
• Employment Type: Part Time
• Pay Rate/Salary: $20/hr - $24/hr