What are the responsibilities and job description for the Youth Development Director position at YMCA of Columbia?
Position Summary
The Youth Development Director is responsible for designing, implementing, and evaluating a range of programs and activities that promote the holistic development of children and teens in our community.
Essential Functions
The Youth Development Director is responsible for designing, implementing, and evaluating a range of programs and activities that promote the holistic development of children and teens in our community.
Essential Functions
- Develop and implement a comprehensive youth development program that addresses the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive needs of children and teens. Design age-appropriate activities, curriculum, and the experiences that promote positive youth development and foster a sense of belonging and achievement.
- Engage with youth participants to understand their interests, preferences, and needs. Provide opportunities for youth voice and leadership in program planning, decision-making, and evaluation. Build positive relationships with youth participants and serve as a role model and mentor.
- Recruit, train, and supervise youth development staff, including program coordinators, counselors, and volunteers. Provide leadership, guidance, and support to staff to ensure the delivery of high-quality programs and services. Conduct performance evaluations and provide feedback to support staff development and growth.
- Collaborate with schools, community organizations, and other stakeholders to enhance and expand youth development opportunities. Build partnerships to leverage resources, share best practices, and address the needs of diverse populations of youth and families. Represent the YMCA in community forums, coalitions, and initiatives related to youth development.
- Engage parents and families in youth development programs and activities. Provide information, resources, and support to parents to help them support their children’s development and success. Foster positive relationships with families and encourage their involvement in program planning and evaluation.
- Always ensure the safety and well-being of youth participants. Develop and enforce safety protocols, emergency procedures, and risk management practices. Conduct regular safety inspections of program facilities and equipment and address any hazards or concerns promptly.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
- Mission Advancement
- Collaboration
- Operational Effectiveness
- Personal Growth
- Minimum age of 21.
- Bachelor’s degree in education, social work, psychology, or related field required.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with diverse groups of stakeholders, including youth, families, staff, and community partners.
- Strong knowledge of youth development principles, theories, and best practices.
- Certifications required within 60 days of employment: CPR, First Aid, AED, Oxygen.
- Ability to complete the following within 30 days of hire: Child Abuse Prevention training; Bloodborne Pathogens and Sexual Harassment training.
- Passion for the YMCA mission and commitment to serving the community.
- Must be able to perform all physical requirements of the position, including walking, standing, bending, reaching, and lifting up to 50 lbs. at a time.