Karla Cardenas
Watsonville ,CA
Summary
Enthusiastic and dependable childcare professional with hands-on experience in youth engagement, activity planning, and customer service through multiple roles at the Central Coast YMCA. Proven ability to create a safe, fun, and inclusive environment for children while maintaining clear communication with parents and supporting team operations. Passionate about promoting healthy lifestyles and building positive experiences for families in fitness-based settings.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
Work History
Kid Zone Staff, Day Camp Staff, Membership Sales a
Central Coast YMCA (831)750-7683
Watsonville, CA
06.2023 - 07.2025
Kid Zone Staff
• Supervised and engaged with children in a safe, age-appropriate play environment.
• Planned and facilitated fun, educational, and fitness-related activities.
Maintained a clean, organized, and child-friendly space, following health and safety protocols.
• Communicated effectively with parents/guardians regarding their child’s needs and behavior.
• Supported positive behavior management and conflict resolution among children.
Day Camp Staff
• Led groups of children in outdoor and indoor activities, including games, crafts, and team-building exercises.
Ensured camper safety and well-being through constant supervision and adherence to risk management procedures.
• Built strong, trusting relationships with campers and provided mentorship and guidance.
• Assisted in planning and executing weekly camp schedules and special events.
Collaborated with fellow staff to create an inclusive and supportive environment.
Membership Sales Associate:
• Greeted and assisted members and guests, providing excellent customer service.
• Processed memberships, payments, and program registrations accurately and efficiently.
• Promoted YMCA programs and services to prospective members.
• Handled front desk duties including phone calls, inquiries, and facility tours.
• Resolved member concerns promptly and professionally to ensure satisfaction.
- Worked successfully with diverse group of coworkers to accomplish goals and address issues related to our products and services.
- Conducted comprehensive research and data analysis to support strategic planning and informed decision-making.
- Approached customers and engaged in conversation through use of effective interpersonal and people skills.
Education
Business Accounting/ Finance
Cabrillo College
Aptos, CA06-2026
Skills
- Childcare & Youth Engagement
- Ensured consistent child supervision and maintained safe, nurturing environments
- Designed and led age-appropriate, engaging activities to support developmental milestones
- Implemented positive behavior guidance strategies to encourage social and emotional growth
- Facilitated camp programs and playroom operations for children of diverse age groups
- Demonstrated awareness and sensitivity when working with children with special needs
- Customer Service Communication
- Effectively communicated with parents/guardians to ensure transparency and trust
- Resolved conflicts promptly and professionally to maintain a positive environment
- Maintained a friendly, approachable, and professional demeanor with staff and families
- Fluently bilingual, enhancing communication with diverse clientele
- Applied active listening skills to understand and respond to the needs of children and families
- Teamwork & Leadership
- Proven collaborative team member with a proactive approach to problem-solving
- Adapted quickly in fast-paced, dynamic childcare and recreation settings
- Led and mentored youth groups, encouraging participation and teamwork
- Supported peers and coordinated tasks to ensure smooth daily operations
- Known for dependability, punctuality, and a strong work ethic
- Administrative & Front Desk Operations
- Processed memberships and completed sales transactions with accuracy and efficiency
- Maintained professional phone and front desk communication aligned with organizational standards
- Handled cash and performed data entry with attention to detail and confidentiality
- Operated scheduling and registration systems, ensuring accurate record-keeping and customer support
- Email correspondence
- Phone etiquette
- Cross functional collaboration
Languages
Spanish
Professional
Timeline
Kid Zone Staff, Day Camp Staff, Membership Sales a
Central Coast YMCA (831)750-7683
06.2023 - 07.2025
Business Accounting/ Finance
Cabrillo College
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