The Youth Services Counselor supports youth programming at the PUSH Buffalo Community Hub, also known as the Movement Leadership Institute (MLI), by creating a safe, engaging, and structured environment for children and teens.
This role focuses on positive youth development through recreational activities, academic enrichment, social-emotional learning, and mentorship. Counselors help ensure youth are supported, engaged, and connected throughout the program experience.
What You’ll Do
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Facilitate programming including enrichment activities, games, arts, recreation, and group learning
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Support structured activities aligned with youth development goals (academic reinforcement, teamwork, leadership, and life skills)
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Implement engaging, age-appropriate lesson plans and activities
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Assist in planning and leading field trips, special events, themed days, and recreational programming
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Ensure all activities are safe, inclusive, and well-organized
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Provide active supervision of participants at all times
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Build positive relationships and serve as a mentor and role model
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Support behavior management using positive youth development strategies
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Maintain a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all
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Follow all safety protocols, attendance tracking, and incident reporting procedures
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Provide basic crisis intervention and de-escalation support when needed
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Encourage emotional expression, communication skills, and peer relationship building
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Help youth develop confidence, resilience, and teamwork skills
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Maintain positive communication with families as needed
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Support connection to community resources when appropriate
We’re looking for someone who:
- Is a natural relationship-builder and strong communicator
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Brings experience working with children or youth in a structured program, camp, school, or community setting
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Is committed to equity and effective engagement across diverse communities
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Bonus if you’re bilingual (Spanish, Burmese, Arabic, or others).
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Has strong ability to engage and motivate youth in group settings
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Can maintain good communication and interpersonal skills
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Has the ability to manage groups of children in structured and unstructured settings
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Demonstrates strong judgment, patience, and problem-solving ability
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Can work well in a fast-paced program environment (including summer program)
Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Minimum one (1) year experience working with children or youth in a structured program, camp, school, or community setting preferred
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Must complete all required program training prior to start
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First Aid/CPR/AED certification required within 90 days of hire
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Must pass New York State and Federal background clearances
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Must be at least 18 years old
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Must reside locally in Buffalo, NY area, able to work on site at least five (5) days per week.
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Experience working with diverse populations.
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Working knowledge of the Microsoft Office suite and familiar web-based social networking and mobile software applications, including Outlook 365 key. Salesforce experience helpful.
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Willing to work evening and weekend hours, as necessary.
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A valid driver’s license and access to reliable private transportation is required.
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Bilingual/bicultural a plus.