Department: Youth Programs
Reports To: Program Director
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Employment Status: Part-Time
I Challenge Myself provides opportunities for underserved youth to strengthen their minds, bodies and spirits through school-based academic, physical fitness, and social-emotional learning programs. For the past 20 years, ICM has supported over 5,000 youth at schools and summer programs in Washington Heights, Harlem, and The Bronx.
I Challenge Myself runs two DYCD COMPASS after-school programs in Washington Heights and Harlem. We seek a talented Activity Specialist to support the after-school programs.
In this role you will: The Activity Specialist is responsible for designing, planning, and facilitating engaging, high-quality enrichment programming within an assigned specialty area for participants enrolled in ICM’s DYCD COMPASS Afterschool Program based in Washington Heights and Harlem, NY.
The Activity Specialist serves as a subject matter expert and is responsible for developing and delivering project-based, hands-on learning experiences that promote creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, leadership, and positive youth development. Programming should support participants' academic, social-emotional, physical, and personal growth while aligning with the goals and quality standards of the Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD). The role includes:
- Must have a strong interest in working with youth and have expertise in area(s) of specialty (STEAM, Leadership, Dance, Art, Cooking, Gardening, Theater, Etc
- Provide guidance and inspiration to help students approach area(s) of specialty with enthusiasm and confidence.
- Responsible for developing weekly activity lesson plans in area(s) of specialty.
- Facilitate activities that foster the development of new skills in children.
- Ensure that age-appropriate activities are implemented for youth in grades 6-8
- Maintain a safe, healthy, supportive, and collaborative learning environment for students
- Build positive relationships with youth and adults and serve as a role model with respect to demeanor, communication, behavior and community.
- Model and uphold all agency and school policies and procedures
- Quickly identify and seek to resolve conflicts and behavioral problems in consultation with the Assistant Program Director and Program Director.
- Interact with parents and keep open lines of communication to better understand and work with the youth
- Participate in staff meetings and training.
What qualifications do you need:
- A minimum of two years of experience or other equivalent training in area(s) of specialty with youth.
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
- Employment is contingent upon successful completion of all required pre-employment screenings and clearances.
Work Schedule:
- Monday – Friday
- Washington Heights Location: Between 2:00 PM – 5:30 PM
- Harlem Location: Between 2:30 PM – 6:00 PM
- Program start date: September 22, 2026
- Program runs September through June for 36 weeks
I Challenge Myself is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status or any other category protected by Federal, State or local law. EOE M/F/D/V
Pay: $25.00 - $35.00 per hour
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
Work Location: In person
