Aiden McKenney
Sauquoit,NY
Summary
Dedicated youth development professional with a strong focus on mentoring and facilitating social-emotional learning programs. Expertise in fostering resilience and teamwork through meaningful relationships, enhancing personal growth among students in diverse settings.
Overview
1
1
Certification
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
ICAN Summer Youth Program Facilitator
Integrated Community Alternatives Network (ICAN)
05.2025 - Current
- Mentored high school students in summer enrichment program, fostering leadership, cultural awareness, and career exploration skills.
- Facilitated activities that promoted teamwork and communication, enhancing peer relationships and leadership qualities.
- Built strong mentoring relationships that encouraged confidence, growth, and student success.
- Transported and supervised students during field trips, college visits, community events, and educational activities, ensuring safety and engagement.
- Coordinated community outreach events and volunteer projects, increasing civic engagement among participants.
Youth Empowerment Specialist
Integrated Community Alternatives Network (ICAN)
Utica, NY
04.2025 - Current
- Supported children facing behavioral, emotional, and social challenges with tailored interventions and relationship-building strategies, fostering resilience and enhancing social skills.
- Facilitated Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) programs in elementary schools, enhancing students' emotional intelligence, communication, and decision-making skills.
- Mentored students by providing behavioral support and guidance, fostering positive role modeling and enhancing personal development.
- Collaborated with teachers, counselors, administrators, and families to improve student success and increase classroom engagement.
- Create safe, inclusive environments that promote accountability, resilience, confidence, and personal growth.
- Maintain confidential student records, progress notes, and behavioral documentation in accordance with policies.
Climbing Tower & Low Elements Instructor
The Root Farm (Upstate Caring Partners)
Sauquoit, NY
03.2025 - Current
- Instructed participants on climbing tower and low-element course safety, fostering a positive and engaging learning environment.
- Facilitated challenge-based learning experiences that built resilience, confidence, trust, and collaboration among participants.
- Led outdoor experiential education programs that strengthened leadership, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Coordinated programs for youth camps, athletic teams, corporate groups, and community organizations to enhance teamwork and personal growth.
- Adjusted activities to accommodate diverse developmental, behavioral, and physical needs, ensuring inclusivity for all participants.
Physical Education Student Teacher
Sauquoit Valley Elementary School
12.2023 - 02.2024
- Planned and instructed engaging physical education lessons, promoting active participation and enhancing skill development.
- Designed activities that fostered teamwork, improved physical fitness, and enhanced personal development.
- Cultivated relationships with students, boosting confidence and increasing participation while encouraging sportsmanship.
- Implemented behavioral management strategies, establishing a structured and positive learning environment for all students.
- Adapted instruction to accommodate diverse learning styles and behavioral needs.
Physical Education Assistant
Sauquoit Valley Elementary & Middle School
08.2023 - 12.2023
- Facilitated structured physical education activities for elementary and middle school students, enhancing engagement and skill development.
- Supported physical education teachers in lesson instruction, classroom management, and student supervision, improving student learning outcomes.
- Encouraged teamwork and communication, reinforcing positive behavior expectations to foster a collaborative classroom atmosphere.
- Established safe, organized, inclusive learning environment, facilitating participation and growth for all students.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice
Utica University
Utica, NY05-2028
Skills
- Social-Emotional Learning
- Behavioral Intervention
- Program Facilitation
- Youth Engagement
- Youth Mentorship
- Student Progress Monitoring
- Trauma-Informed Care
- Youth Leadership
- Classroom facilitation
- Group Dynamics
- Conflict Resolution
- Student Engagement
Certification
- CPR Certified
- First Aid Certified
- Mandated Reporter Certified
Awards
- President's List - Utica University
- Scholar Athlete Award
- Most Improved Player - Varsity Football
- Most Improved Player - Varsity Basketball
Community Service
- Basketball Coach, Varsity & Junior Varsity Summer League, Coached student-athletes while promoting leadership, teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship., Developed practices focused on skill development, communication, confidence, and accountability.
- Basketball Coach, Optimist Basketball, Mentored youth athletes through skill development, teamwork, and positive character-building.
- Clock Operator, Pop Warner Football, Supported game-day operations by managing official timing and assisting event coordination.
Timeline
ICAN Summer Youth Program Facilitator
Integrated Community Alternatives Network (ICAN)
05.2025 - Current
Youth Empowerment Specialist
Integrated Community Alternatives Network (ICAN)
04.2025 - Current
Climbing Tower & Low Elements Instructor
The Root Farm (Upstate Caring Partners)
03.2025 - Current
Physical Education Student Teacher
Sauquoit Valley Elementary School
12.2023 - 02.2024
Physical Education Assistant
Sauquoit Valley Elementary & Middle School
08.2023 - 12.2023
Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice
Utica University