Summer Internship Opportunity: Behavioral Specialist Assistant

Youth Development Services

The YMCA is seeking at least six compassionate, dedicated individuals to serve as Behavioral Assistants for our Summer Day Camps. This is an unpaid volunteer and/or internship opportunity perfect for college students needing academic credit or high school students seeking service hours. Under the guidance of a YMCA Behavioral Specialist coach, you will help create an inclusive environment where every child can thrive. A key component of this role is providing 1-on-1 support to a specific student during camp field trip days to ensure a safe and successful experience. We offer flexible scheduling to meet the needs of both our participants and your academic requirements. Extensive Professional Training: The YMCA invests in your professional growth by providing high-level, industry-recognized training (at no cost to you), including: Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI): Classroom Culture & Verbal Intervention certifications. Trauma Smart: Specialized training in trauma-informed care. Bully Prevention: Internal YMCA curriculum. Commitment to Safety: The safety of children is our top priority. Because this position involves direct work with youth, all applicants are required to: Complete a comprehensive background screening. Complete Praesidium Child Abuse Prevention training. Sign and adhere to the YMCA’s Code of Conduct. Why Join Us? This position offers invaluable hands-on experience for those pursuing careers in psychology, social work, education, or behavioral health. You will finish the summer with a professional portfolio of certifications and the satisfaction of making a tangible difference in a child's life.

Main Office: 6901 Shawnee Mission Parkway, Suite 300 (Camp locations are throughout the Greater Kansas City area including Lee's Summit, Blue Valley, Shawnee Mission, Platte County and North Kansas City) Overland Park, KS 66202 United States

The goals of this internship are to: Professional Competency: Master and apply evidence-based behavioral strategies, including CPI Verbal Intervention and Trauma-Informed care, to support student success in a camp environment. Mentored Practical Experience: Gain hands-on clinical and educational experience through 1-on-1 student support and weekly coaching sessions with a YMCA Behavioral Specialist. Safety & Inclusion Advocacy: Foster a secure and inclusive camp culture by implementing internal Bully Prevention protocols and ensuring child safety during high-engagement field trip activities.

Gretchen Deaton Vice President, People Engagement and Experience GretchenDeaton@KansasCityYMCA.org Direct 816.360.3302 | Cell 816.935.3302| Main 816.561.9622 l Fax 816.298.6268 KansasCityYMCA.org | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn 6901 Shawnee Mission Pkwy, Suite 300, Overland Park, KS 66202

Children & Youth

How You Can Help
Hold a Position (1)
Position Dates Need
Intern: Behavioral Specialist Assistant May 25, 2026 - Jul 31, 2026 5