Youth Program Mentor
Position Description
PMC Mission and Values
Our mission is excellence in healthcare services and the promotion of wellness in our community. Our Guiding Values are Integrity, Dignity, Professionalism, Quality, and Teamwork.
Position Summary
The Youth Program Mentor will work under the Youth Programming Coordinator to implement the Kinder Skog program, an outdoor nature program that offers afterschool and summer programming for ages 5 -12 years old, as well as the Wellness Department ORCA Camps. These outdoor based programs provide afterschool and summer enrichment for children ages 4-14 focusing on fostering an appreciation for nature, environmental stewardship, and community involvement. The position involves facilitating multi-sensory learning experiences through outdoor play, STEM activities, and guided service projects. Mentors will also serve as role models for pro-social behaviors, emotional regulation, and positive communication.
Responsibilities
- Safety. Ensure the safety of participants in a variety of outdoor settings and during moderate-risk activities.
- Create a Positive Environment. Promote a nurturing, supportive and inclusive atmosphere for children to thrive physically, socially and emotionally.
- Program Implementation. Assist with planning and leading activities aligned with the program's philosophy, incorporating nature exploration, STEM learning, recreational opportunities, and community building exercises.
- Social-Emotional Development. Model and guide participants in developing essential social-emotional skills such as effective communication, turn-taking, healthy risk taking and managing emotions.
- Policy Compliance. Adhere to Petersburg Medical Center and PMC Youth Program policies, ensuring safety and privacy standards are met.
- Confidentiality. Maintain strict confidentiality regarding participant information, always respecting privacy.
- Gear Management. Ensure that program gear is properly stored, restocked as needed, and communicate any supply needs to the Youth Program Coordinator.
- Mentor Backpack. Carry a mentor backpack containing all necessary items when accompanying participants on outings.
- Facility Maintenance. Help maintain the cleanliness and organization of the "Skog Den" and Gear Shed spaces, ensuring that they are always ready for use.
- Role Modeling. Lead by example in teaching participants the importance of waring appropriate gear for outdoor activities and varying weather conditions.
- Other Duties as assigned.
- Previous experience working with children, especially in outdoor settings or youth programs is preferred.
- Strong communication, problem-solving and team skills.
- Knowledge of local flora and fauna is preferred.
- Passion for the outdoors, environmental education, recreational skills, and child development.
- Ability to adapt to a variety of settings and moderate-risk activities.
- First Aid and CPR certification is preferred or willingness to obtain upon hire.
- Must be able to pass a third-party background check, a State of Alaska background check, and a drug screen (including Marijuana).