Nicole Cariaga

A YMCA Program Leader is responsible for planning, leading, and supervising activities that support the physical, emotional, and social development of program participants, typically in youth, teen, or community-focused programs. This role involves creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment for all participants, while promoting the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

Key responsibilities include:

• Planning and leading activities: Designing and facilitating age-appropriate recreational, educational, and enrichment activities, such as arts and crafts, sports, games, and STEM projects.
• Supervision and safety: Monitoring participants to ensure a safe environment, enforcing rules, and responding effectively to emergencies or behavioral issues.
• Relationship building: Creating positive, supportive relationships with participants, parents, and coworkers to encourage personal growth, and a sense of belonging.
• Administrative tasks: Completing attendance, incident reports, and communicating program updates with supervisors and families, as needed.
• Team collaboration: Working with other staff members to plan events, support transitions, and contribute to a cohesive program environment.
• Role modeling: Demonstrating positive behavior and leadership while upholding YMCA policies, and acting as a mentor to youth participants.
• Communicated regularly with customers to gain insights into their needs.