Program Director, Adventure Guides/Assistant Camp Director

About the role

The Dallas YMCA is seeking a dynamic and self-motivated Program Director to oversee the Adventure Guides and Camp on the Lake programs. This role is crucial in building community connections, fostering relationships with volunteers and participants, and managing regional operations. You will work under the guidance of the Adventure Guides Director and Camp Director to plan and execute campouts, local events, and waterfront safety initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Build and maintain relationships with YMCA members, volunteers, community partners, staff, and internal teams.
• Serve as a liaison between the YMCA and the families served, ensuring strong communication and engagement.
• Recruit, support, and empower volunteers for the Adventure Guides program while fostering a sense of community and ownership.
• Supervise, train, and support waterfront staff to ensure safety and quality in all waterfront activities.
• Manage waterfront schedules, equipment readiness, and safety protocols.
• Coordinate and execute logistics for 7-8 campouts and monthly local events in fall and spring.
• Lead communication efforts with volunteers and families, ensuring timely updates and smooth coordination.
• Collaborate with YMCA branches to align events with community needs and values.
• Act as a liaison for community outreach and fundraising initiatives, including the Annual Campaign.
• Represent the Adventure Guides Program within the broader YMCA organization, promoting visibility and collaboration.

Requirements

• Minimum age of 21 years old.
• Bachelor’s degree or 1-3 years of equivalent experience in youth and family programming, preferably with a background in camping or recreation.
• Experience in budget monitoring, staff hiring, supervision, and evaluation.
• Strong relationship-building, communication, and independent decision-making skills.
• Physical ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs and initiate first aid procedures.
• Comfortable working outdoors, especially during summer months.
• Lifeguard certification (LGI Certification required within 30 days of hire).
• Valid Driver’s License and ability to obtain a Texas boater’s license.
• Ability to assess safety conditions for boating and waterfront activities visually and auditorily.

Benefits

• Health, Dental, and Vision insurance.
• Long & Short-Term Disability coverage.
• Medical and Dependent Care Reimbursement Plan.
• Supplementary Insurance (Cancer/Accident/Critical Illness).
• Employee Assistance Plan.
• Free family YMCA membership.
• Discounts on Y programs, including summer camps, enrichment classes, youth sports, and childcare.
• Eligibility to enroll in a 403(b) tax-deferred retirement account from the start of employment, with 12% contribution by the YMCA upon meeting eligibility requirements.
• Paid time off (PTO) based on hours worked and years of service.
• Training and leadership development opportunities.
• Employee referral awards of $100 and up.