OVERVIEW

Mercy Street exists to cultivate mutually transforming relationships with inner-city youth through Christian mentorship. Mercy Street is a faith-based nonprofit committed to mentoring, developing, and empowering youth in West and South Dallas. Our programs focus on spiritual development, academic success, leadership, and life skills that equip students for meaningful lives rooted in purpose and service.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Part-Time After-School Youth Development Professional supports the academic, social, emotional, and spiritual growth of elementary-age children (grades K–5) in a safe, structured, and caring after-school environment. This role provides supervision, homework support, enrichment activities, and faith-based guidance designed to meet the developmental needs of young children.

KEY RESULT AREAS

MINISTER OF THE GOSPEL

The Part-time after-school youth development professional (K-5) is first and foremost considered to be a Minister of the Gospel. This position furthers Mercy Street's religious mission by:

• Following Jesus Christ and setting an example for others through their lifestyle.
• Exhibiting a passion for sharing the Gospel with others.
• Being willing and able to explain the message of the Gospel to kids and families of Mercy Street.
• Being willing and able to counsel, shepherd, and disciple kids and families of Mercy Street in a manner consistent with the Bible.
• Being willing and able to explain Mercy Street's beliefs and Statement of Faith in person or over the phone to kids and families of Mercy Street.
• Being ready, willing, and able to lead or contribute to distinctly Christian activities (including, but not limited to, worship or staff chapel).
• Add value to the spiritual growth of Mercy Street staff through leading chapel or Bible studies for staff as requested.
• Contribute to the spiritual growth of Mercy Street students through leading Bible studies for students.

CHILD SUPERVISION & SAFETY

• Provide consistent, attentive supervision of elementary students during all program activities

• Ensure safe arrival, transitions, and dismissal procedures

• Maintain a warm, nurturing, and inclusive environment

• Follow all child-safety, health, and confidentiality policies

ACADEMIC SUPPORT & ENRICHMENT

• Assist children with homework, reading, and basic skill-building

• Support learning through hands-on, age-appropriate enrichment activities (arts, games, STEM, movement)

• Encourage positive learning habits, focus, and confidence

FAITH-BASED GUIDANCE & CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT

• Model Christian values such as unity, humility, and excellence

• Lead or assist with short, age-appropriate devotionals, prayer, and Bible-based lessons

• Help children understand faith concepts through stories, songs, crafts, and discussion

• Support character development and positive decision-making

BEHAVIOR SUPPORT & SOCIAL EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT

• Use positive reinforcement and developmentally appropriate behavior guidance
• Teach children skills such as sharing, listening, emotional regulation, and cooperation
• Respond calmly and effectively to conflicts or emotional needs

PROGRAM SUPPORT & COMMUNICATION

• Track attendance and daily participation
• Communicate regularly with families and program leadership
• Assist with special events, service projects, and seasonal activities
• Maintain clean, organized program spaces and materials

OTHER DUTIES AS ASSIGNED

• Serve on appropriate committees; attend staff meetings, and other staff functions.

• Strengthen teamwork, collaboration, alignment, morale, transparency, credibility, and trust throughout the ministry.

• Fulfill necessary tasks, projects or roles as assigned.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS REQUIRED

• High school diploma or GED required; coursework or degree in education, child development, or youth ministry preferred

• Experience working with elementary-age children in a school, church, or after-school setting

• Excellent written communication skills and verbal communication skills.

• Great interpersonal skills with both adults and children.

• Basic computer skills and familiarity with Google Drive (calendar, sheets, docs).

• An ability to affirm and consistently demonstrate a commitment to our cause, statement of faith, and most importantly, a passionate connection to our mission.

• Able to pass a criminal background check and reference checks.

PREFERRED SKILLS & ATTRIBUTES

• Experience leading groups of young children

• Ability to explain concepts in simple, engaging ways

• Warm, energetic, and dependable demeanor

• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)

HOURS, COMMITMENT, AND COMPENSATION

• Hourly Rate: $[13-15]/hour, based on experience

• Paid training, faith-based professional development

• Availability M-F school-year afternoons; occasional events