Program Director (La Central YMCA)

About the Organization

The YMCA of Greater New York empowers youth, improves health, and strengthens community. Founded in 1852, the Y serves a diverse population of more than half a million New Yorkers through programs and services at 24 branches. Community is the cornerstone of the Y, connecting active, engaged New Yorkers to build stronger communities. The organization fosters a culture of learning, leading, and collaboration to enhance community impact, with a people-first approach that prioritizes trust, inclusion, growth, and development for all staff.

About the Role

The La Central YMCA is seeking a Program Director to serve as the strategic and operational leader for its Afterschool initiative. This role involves managing a holistic youth development program, focusing on team leadership, program excellence, inclusion, mental wellness, and operational management. The Program Director will work under the supervision of the Youth & Family Director to create a safe, fun, and impactful space for children to learn and grow.

Responsibilities

• Direct programs serving the designated grade level band (K-5 or 6-8), ensuring all activities and services are age-appropriate and aligned with DYCD program requirements.
• Integrate programs deeply into the community, meeting the diverse needs of all members.
• Develop and execute strategies for recruiting and retaining participants, aiming for high attendance rates and sustained engagement.
• Utilize quantitative measures, quality monitoring tools, and external evaluations to demonstrate program effectiveness and drive continuous improvement.
• Establish and maintain connections with local community partners, funders, and external evaluators to enhance program services and resource availability.
• Lead staff in implementing comprehensive mental wellness support for participants and families, including training staff to identify and refer participants needing additional support.
• Coordinate and implement a crisis plan in conjunction with NYCPS school social workers, mental health staff, and external behavioral health providers.
• Oversee the selection and implementation of an evidence-based SEL curriculum (e.g., COMPASS Elementary or SONYC) adaptable to an after-school setting.
• Manage the program budget, order supplies, and track expenses using provided tools.
• Recruit, retain, and mentor a diverse staff team to deliver high-quality programming.
• Cultivate collaborative relationships with host school administration and staff, aligning STEAM and Literacy initiatives with academic goals.
• Maintain accurate program documentation as required by OCFS, DOH, DYCD, and the YMCA of Greater New York.
• Communicate the YMCA’s core values and program goals to participants and caregivers, fostering positive relationships with parents/guardians.
• Actively participate in training sessions, meetings, and special events.
• Adhere to all OCFS, DOH, YMCA, school partner, and funder standards, expectations, and regulations.

Qualifications

• One of the following:
  • Associate’s Degree in Child Development, Elementary Education, Physical Education, Recreation, or a related field;
  • A New York State Children’s Program Administrator Credential;
  • A School-Age Child Care Credential or other Office-recognized credential specific to the school-age developmental period;
  • Two years of college with 18 credits in Child Development, Elementary Education, Physical Education, Recreation, or a related field.
• Minimum of two years of direct experience working with children under the age of 13.
• Minimum of one year of experience in a supervisory capacity in a childcare program or related field.
• Current Pediatrics CPR or First Aid certification preferred.
• General knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Strong interpersonal skills, leadership qualities, and comfort working with diverse youth and adults.

Benefits

Benefit eligibility is determined by employment status (full-time or part-time), tenure, and scheduled hours. Benefits may include:

• Retirement benefits
• Medical coverage
• Paid time off
• Free YMCA membership

Pay

$66,300 annually.