Introduction of Organization
The Young Men’s Christian Academy, also known as the YMCA, is the world’s leading non-profit organization and is present in over 10,000 communities across the nation. With more than 2,600 locations, the Y, as it is now more commonly refer to, provides programs, whose focus is on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. (YMCA of the USA, 2012) Particularly, the Arthur M. Blank Family Youth Y is one of the 28 Y locations in the Metro Atlanta area. This location only provides on childcare services through its Preschool and After-school Programs. Between these two programs, they employ up to 50 staff members. They are dedicated to the following goals: help children develop their full potential, support and strengthen the family unit, and deliver childcare in a caring, safe, and positive environment. (YMCA Metro Atlanta)
The After-school Program is a state licensed program that admits elementary school students between grade levels kindergarten through 5th grade. During this program, children are engaged in the following activities: academic enhancement (i.e. homework assistance, reading, math, science, annual spelling bees, and CRCT Prep), an hour of health, wellness and nutrition activities, and an hour of enrichment activities including, but not limited to character development, volunteering, poetry, and cultural appreciation. Children also have the option to participate in organized sports leagues such as football, basketball, track, tennis, and cheerleading. (YMCA Metro Atlanta)
I have served several roles at the Y since my October 2009 start date. I applied for a Cheerleading Coach position. Upon accepting this position as a Cheer Coach I also accepted a position as an After-school Program Counselor. During my 1.5 years of employment at the Y, I served as many other official and unofficial titles such as Volunteer Coordinator, Lead Counselor, Cheerleading Program Coordinator, Preschool Assistant Teacher, Preschool Graduation Coordinator, Summer Camp Counselor, and served on committees for event/activity planning for the Preschool and After-school Programs. I left the Y after accepting a position in a Summer Fellowship Program.
Description of Problem
As a result of the economic crisis, enrollment numbers in childcare facilities have decreased. Parents are struggling to afford to send their children to programs such as the ones that the Y provides. Now more than ever, the pressure is on for childcare businesses to market themselves as a quality program and one that children need in their lives. The A.M.B. Y’s has made customer satisfaction its main priority. In achieving this formula for success, the Y has undergone several program changes to appeal to the children and that will meet parent approval. Employees had to adjust to immediate changes to the program activities and schedule. However, the Y’s increase in employee turnover created an inverse effect on their business’ success. Why was the Y constantly loosing current employees and replacing them for new ones?
Leadership and Organizational Behavior Concepts Addressed * TCO B:
High employee turnover ratio may be directly related to the level of job satisfaction of an employee. If an employee feels negatively about their employer, co-workers, or working environment, it can cause that employee to quit their job or act in ways that are frowned upon by management. Effective managers will help others achieve job satisfaction. Attitudes of individuals do not always predict behavior; however, it is important for managers to understand individual behaviors. (Schermerhorn, Hunt, Osborn, & Uhl-Bien, 2010) * TCO C:
Employees need to be motivated by management. Motivation can be through money and other rewards. However, they must also be fair in “reward” distribution as it may cause either a positive or negative affect on the work environment. It is essential for managers to understand individual’s needs for different types of motivations. (Schermerhorn, Hunt, Osborn, & Uhl-Bien, 2010)
Bibliography
Barford, S. W., & Whelton, W. J. (2010). Understanding Burnout in Child and Youth Care Workers. Child & Youth Care Forum, 271-287.
Friedman, L. N., & Bleiberg, M. S. (2002). The Long-term Sustainability od After-School Programs: The After-School Corporation's Strategy. New Directors for Youth Development, 19-39.
Jacons, L. (1996, October 23). Standards for After School Care Piloted. Education Week, p. 1.
Petty, G. C., Brown, B., & Brewer, E. W. (2005). Job Satisfaction among Employees of a Youth Development Organization. Child & Youth Care Forum, 57-73.
Schermerhorn, J. R., Hunt, J. G., Osborn, R. N., & Uhl-Bien, M. (2010). Organizational Behavior. Danvers: John Wiley & Sons.
