Junior Program Director (Volunteer Leadership Opportunity)

Opportunity

Looking to gain teaching, school counseling, or youth development experience? Join Minds Matter Chicago as a Junior Program Director and gain hands-on experience leading high school students through engaging academic programming while working alongside experienced educators, counselors, college access professionals, and nonprofit leaders.

Who Should Apply

• Graduate students in Education, School Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, Higher Education, or related fields
• Current or aspiring teachers looking to gain classroom leadership experience
• School counselors and counseling interns
• College access and youth development professionals
• Individuals exploring careers in education or nonprofit leadership
• Anyone passionate about helping high school students achieve their college dreams

What You'll Gain

• Strengthen skills in: Classroom facilitation, Student engagement, Lesson planning and curriculum implementation, Educational leadership, Mentoring and coaching, Project and event management, Family communication, Public speaking, Collaboration across multidisciplinary teams, Leadership in a mission-driven organization

What You'll Do

• Lead weekly Saturday programming for a cohort of high school juniors preparing for college
• Facilitate engaging lessons and activities aligned with grade-level academic and college readiness goals
• Foster a structured, inclusive, and student-centered learning environment
• Partner with volunteer mentors to support student growth, engagement, and accountability
• Communicate regularly with students and families regarding schedules, expectations, and program updates
• Cook up and coordinate college visits, educational workshops, field trips, and special events
• Collaborate with the Curriculum, Instruction & Advising team and program leadership to deliver high-quality programming
• Help ensure every student feels supported, challenged, and empowered to reach their goals

Time Commitment

• Approximately 6 to 8 hours per week
• Weekly Saturday program sessions
• Occasional evening leadership meetings, planning sessions, and special events throughout the year

The Impact You'll Help Create

Through your leadership, you'll help students build the confidence, academic skills, and college knowledge they need to pursue opportunities that can transform their futures.

About Minds Matter Chicago

Minds Matter Chicago partners with ambitious students from low-income families, providing individualized mentoring, academic enrichment, and college advising that helps students earn admission to and succeed at four-year colleges. As a volunteer leader, you'll become part of a collaborative network committed to educational equity and student success.

How to Apply

If you're ready to make an impact, apply today. Complete our online volunteer application and select Curriculum, Instruction & Advising as the position you're applying for. Email us at volunteers@mindsmatterchicago.org with any questions.