The Salvation Army Bushwick is seeking an Activity Specialist for our GAINS program. The Activity Specialist must have a strong interest and in working with youth and have expertise in one or more disciplines or content-specific program activities or subjects such as sports (e.g., basketball, soccer, martial arts), preforming arts (e.g., dance, music, theater) or photography. Activities should enrich the experiences of children in the GAINS program and encourage them to stay interested in and do better in school. The Activity Specialist must be able to develop lesson plans and reinforce learning with the aid of Group Leaders. They also must be skilled in motivating and engaging children to insure full participation and attendance. Activity Specialists should have knowledge of after-school programs and the mandates of the NYC Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD).

• Ensure the safety and engagement of children in assigned activities
• Develop weekly activity lesson plans
• Facilitate purposeful activities that foster the development of new skills in children, while reinforcing skills/information previously taught
• Provide strong classroom and behavioral management skills while also making all children feel welcome in the Program
• Complete all projects related to specialization, while ensuring the safety and security of all participants and the smooth operation of programming
• Demonstrate key competencies including initiative, teamwork, cooperation, preparedness, professionalism, reliability, and a willingness to continuously improve
• Attend all meetings, training workshops and special events, as required, inclusive of those outside of program hours
• Adhere to all Salvation Army policies, practices, and procedures Complete all assigned projects and tasks on time

• Appropriate training or certification in their area of specialty; High School Diploma/GED required, college students welcome; college degree preferred; sports (e.g., basketball, soccer, martial arts), preforming arts (e.g., dance, music, theater), photography.
• Minimum of two years’ experience working with elementary or middle school-aged children (in-school/out-of-school settings)
• Exceptional group management, problem-solving and conflict resolution skills
• Goal oriented and focused on outcome and results
• Excellent time management and organizational skills
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Competency in youth development and childcare
• Demonstrate the ability to engage, motivate and effectively work to create interactive academic and/or enrichment activities that are age-appropriate
• Genuine enthusiasm for developing professional skills through training opportunities and field practice
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Ability to communicate and work effectively and respectfully with a broad range of diverse constituents Knowledge of DYCD and DOH mandates