Open to participants ages 18 -25, our EXPLORE program will provide a variety of experiences designed to build your personal and professional skills through training sessions and outdoor adventures, while working in a genuine Rocky Mountain location.
Participants will have both structured and free-time opportunities to explore the Rocky Mountains and nurture their enthusiasm for the outdoors. Our 5000 acre property is surrounded by over one million acres of National Forest and Wilderness Areas, making it an outdoor enthusiast’s playground. Our training sessions will incorporate outdoor activities to assist in facilitating the session in a fun experiential ways. In addition to the structured sessions there are additional opportunities to receive CPR and Serve Safe certifications.
As an EXPLORE participant, you will emerge with greater self-confidence, self-awareness and a sense of purpose, along with memories of great places throughout Colorado. You will learn communication techniques, team building, leadership, conflict resolution and setting goals for where you want to go from here. Through an employment experience in a mission-based, not-for-profit organization, you will gain an understanding as to how your work positively impacts our guests, and through various program excursion you will develop a greater enthusiasm for the Rocky Mountains and Colorado.
Participants will complete the program better prepared to face upcoming challenges such as starting/finishing college, applying for/engaging in employment opportunities, living independently and exploring the world. Participants live and learn as part of an intentional community within our YMCA center.
GENERAL YMCA OF THE ROCKIES REQUIREMENTS:
- Uphold and reflect the YMCA core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility and Faith in all functions
- Uphold the YMCA of the Rockies Mission, policies, and programs
- Possess excellent customer service skills; for example, friendly, personable, helpful, patient, and professional
- Support the Association safety program. Promote safe work practices and a safe environment for guests, members, and staff
- Promote a cooperative, positive, and flexible atmosphere while working with others in a diverse environment
- May be required to work evenings, weekends, and holidays, depending on the position
- Meet acceptable criminal background check standards
How Does It Work?
- EXPLORE is group-focused and will develop a close-knit community among participants and leaders. Participants will meet regularly in small groups to develop bonds of friendship and fellowship.
What Distinguishes the YMCA of the Rockies EXPLORE Program from other Gap Programs?
Program Dates:
EXPLORE is offered in two independent four-month semesters. A participant is not encouraged to repeat the program.
- Fall 2018 Semester: August 20, 2018 - December 10, 2018
- Spring 2019 Semester: February 18 - June 7, 2019
Program Fees:
Participants that successfully complete our program will be eligible to stay on as YMCA employees for up to 4 additional months within the department they started the program or another department of interest.
The program fee is $500. Fifty dollars of this fee is payable at the time of application. The program fee helps to defray the costs of training sessions, transportation, and other expenses.
This is a seasonal, hourly (based on 40 hours/week) position, paying $220/week, with employee perks including:
- Room (shared room in our staff dormitory with free wifi and no bills!)
- Board (3 buffet-style meals per day, 7 days per week)
- Other employee perks and discounts, including:
- Access to the YMCA of the Rockies facilities, which include: an indoor pool, basketball gymnasium, fitness classes, hiking/biking/skiing trails, climbing wall, library, and craft shop
- Free Grand Passes for skiing, rock climbing, mountain biking, and golf (dependent on season and resort - limited number available, first come first served basis)
- Free gear rentals for sports and outdoor activities
- Employee programming, including free or discounted staff trips, provided by the Human Resources Office
- Discounted nights at YMCA of the Rockies lodges (with some date restrictions based on season/occupancy)