Youth Group Facilitator (STEAM-Based)

Position Title: AgSTEAM Youth Group Facilitator

Organization: My Senior Keeper Foundation, Inc.

Program: Growing Out of Trouble Program

Position Type: Volunteer

Location: [Location of the garden]

About My Senior Keeper Foundation, Inc. (MSK) MSK is an intergenerational serving DC based 501c3 NGO. MSK’s mission is to develop ideas, identify resources, and scales solutions to appropriately respond to the the most pressing environmental and social challenges of historically underserved neighborhoods' where Washingtonians are adversely affected. MSK empowers youth through experiential education and engagement with agriculture and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) concepts. Our mission is to provide opportunities for young individuals to learn, grow, and develop valuable life skills by connecting them with nature and fostering their curiosity about the world around them.

Position Description: The AgSTEAM Youth Group Facilitator will play a pivotal role in supporting the My Senior Keeper Foundation's Growing Out of Trouble Program by leading hands-on, interactive small group sessions for youth within the garden environment. This position aims to demonstrate age-appropriate agriculture and STEAM concepts while promoting teamwork, critical thinking, and a strong connection with the natural world. The Youth Group Facilitator will work closely with program coordinators, volunteers, and participants to create engaging and impactful learning experiences.

Responsibilities:

• Facilitate small group sessions of youth within the garden, focusing on hands-on activities that integrate agriculture and STEAM concepts.
• Collaborate with program coordinators to develop age-appropriate lesson plans and activities that align with program goals and objectives.
• Create a welcoming and inclusive environment that encourages curiosity, creativity, and active participation among youth participants.
• Demonstrate a passion for agriculture and STEAM subjects, inspiring participants to explore and ask questions.
• Foster a sense of teamwork, collaboration, and respect among youth participants, helping them develop important interpersonal skills.
• Provide guidance and support to participants during activities, addressing questions and encouraging critical thinking.
• Ensure the safety and well-being of participants by following established safety guidelines and protocols.
• Assist with setting up and cleaning up activity stations before and after sessions.
• Collaborate with other facilitators and volunteers to share best practices and enhance the overall program experience.

Qualifications:

• Enthusiasm for working with youth and a strong desire to inspire their interest in agriculture and STEAM fields.
• Knowledge of basic agriculture and STEAM concepts, with the ability to present information in an engaging and accessible manner.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to connect with youth of diverse backgrounds.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage small group activities effectively.
• Experience in experiential education, youth programs, or related fields is a plus.
• Patience, adaptability, and a positive attitude, particularly in outdoor and dynamic environments.
• Willingness to commit to the program's schedule and volunteer requirements.

Time Commitment: The AgSTEAM Youth Group Facilitator position requires a commitment of 8 hours weekly. The program typically runs daily after school hours for a duration of 2 hours daily.

Benefits:

• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of youth by fostering their interest in agriculture and STEAM subjects.
• Hands-on experience in educational program facilitation and experiential learning.
• Networking opportunities with fellow volunteers, educators, and professionals in related fields.
• Personal satisfaction of contributing to a community-based initiative that promotes learning, growth, and positive behavior.

Application Process: Interested individuals are invited to submit their resume and a brief statement of interest to Service@mskdc.org. Qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview and orientation.

Note: This position is a volunteer role and does not offer monetary compensation.