Discover Gap Program - Fall 2024

The Discover Program at YMCA of the Rockies, Snow Mountain Ranch, provides young adults (ages 18 - 24 years old) with a variety of experiences focused on personal growth. Participants strengthen their relationship with nature and deepen their self-understanding while gaining valuable experience in the Hospitality industry in either Food Service or Housekeeping. This is accomplished through adventures in the outdoors, meaningful community service, and a curriculum centered on introspection. Join our community at YMCA of the Rockies for an experience in a diverse, equitable, inclusive, and supportive work environment.

You will experience one Discover day per week that can include hiking, snowshoeing, outdoor education, community service opportunities, and self-development courses. Additionally, participants may be eligible to take a trip to Colombia at the end of the program. 

The ideal Discover Gap Program participant is a young adult who is intentional on self-discovery; learning more about who they are and what they want to do in life. This requires intentional effort in exploring personal and professional growth.

Program outcomes:

Discover participants will likely emerge with greater self-confidence, self-awareness and a sense of purpose. Participants will have the opportunity to work with a diverse workforce and learn professional, life enhancing and team building skills. 

Snow Mountain Ranch is a place where we bring together family and friends. Our inspirational surroundings provide moments of tranquility while intentionally building relationships - with yourself, those around you and nature. Discover is group-focused and will develop a close-knit community among participants and leaders. 

 Program structure:

• Paid seasonal employment, gaining skills in our food service and housekeeping departments
• Part of the Discover Cohort, forming a community with other young adults looking for the same outcomes
• Weekly “Discover Days” designed to enhance life skills, increase workforce preparedness, explore identity formation and possible career trajectories, and explore the local and surrounding areas
• Recreational opportunities (both scheduled and informal) on our 5,200 acres of open space and surrounding public lands
• Service opportunities
• Small-group workshops and training sessions
• Opportunities to continue working at Snow Mountain Ranch, in the same or a different department 

• 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 and demonstrate excellent customer service skills; for example, friendly, personable, helpful, patient, and professional.
• Support the YMCA of the Rockies 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 community.
• Must meet acceptable criminal background check standards.
• All other duties as assigned. 

Work environment and physical demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• Must be able to lift and/or move up to 30 pounds.
• Must be able to walk up to 10 miles on uneven terrain.
• Able to work well with frequent interruptions in a busy work environment.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually fairly high. 

• Maintain and positive and professional attitude towards guests and staff
• Participate enthusiastically in all Discover activities and trainings
• Clean cabins, lodge rooms and public areas, meeting or exceeding standards and guest expectations
• Assist with meal preparation and serving
• Possess stamina to work in the work environment described herein
• Other duties as assigned 

Discover participant compensation:

• This is a seasonal, hourly position, paying $14.42 per hour with a $170.00 per week deduction for room and board
• All participants will be assigned to either Food Service or Housekeeping
• Room (shared room in our staff dormitory with free Wi-Fi) 
• Board (3 buffet-style meals per day, seven days a week) 
• Access to the YMCA of the Rockies facilities
• Free ski passes to check out
• Free or discounted gear rentals for sports and outdoor recreation
• Employee programming, including free or discounted staff trips
• Discounted nights at YMCA of the Rockies lodges