Youth Civic Engagement Facilitator- Full Time
About the role
The Greater Philadelphia YMCA seeks a dynamic and passionate individual to join our team as a Youth Civic Engagement Coordinator. This position offers a unique blend of professional development and community impact, with the opportunity to facilitate transformative experiences for young people in the Greater Philadelphia area.
Responsibilities
- Facilitate weekly Youth and Government (YAG) and Model United Nations (MUN) programming across Greater Philadelphia YMCA branches and local schools.
- Deliver engaging, youth-centered sessions on civic topics such as advocacy, civil rights, state legislation, and government systems, incorporating interactive and multimedia elements.
- Guide students through service-learning projects that address real community needs and foster civic responsibility.
- Support the planning and execution of key events such as YMCA Civic Engagement conferences, officer retreats, and regional trainings.
- Ensure student safety and supervision during all programming, both onsite and during off-site events or field trips.
- Assist in launching and supporting new school- and branch-based delegations, ensuring alignment with YMCA program standards.
- Recruit and motivate teen participants, creating inclusive spaces for students from diverse backgrounds.
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with schools, educators, and community organizations to expand program reach and impact.
- Coordinate with internal YMCA teams and external partners to align programming with shared goals.
- Foster a safe, inclusive, and encouraging environment for youth to explore leadership, advocacy, and self-expression.
- Mentor students through mock debates, legislative simulations, and policy discussions, encouraging participation and confidence.
- Provide motivating, constructive feedback and recognize students for growth and achievement.
- Serve as a resource to YMCA staff regarding teen-related topics, offering support and insight when needed.
- Implement and adapt a comprehensive curriculum focused on advocacy, debate, and legislative process.
- Teach research skills, public speaking techniques, and policy analysis in an accessible and youth-friendly way.
- Ensure programming emphasizes cultural sensitivity, accessibility, and equity.
- Collaborate with the Director of Youth Civic Engagement and YCE team to organize guest speakers, including elected officials and community leaders.
- Assist with logistical planning for delegation activities, conferences, and special events.
- Complete administrative responsibilities including registration management, event prep, and reporting tasks.
- Participate in team meetings, trainings, and cross-department collaboration to align on goals and ensure operational success.
Requirements
- 2+ years of experience in youth programming, civic engagement, education, or a related field such as community organizing, leadership development, or policy work.
- Demonstrated ability to facilitate youth programs, lead group discussions, and guide students through complex civic topics using interactive and engaging methods.
- Experience with Youth and Government (YAG) or Model United Nations (MUN) programming is preferred.
- Excellent interpersonal skills, including cultural sensitivity, active listening, and empathy.
- Proficient in Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides) and Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Comfortable with using and troubleshooting presentation technology and virtual meeting platforms (e.g., Zoom, Google Meet).
- Strong organizational skills, with close attention to detail in scheduling, tracking attendance, and managing logistics.
- Superior time management and the ability to balance multiple priorities across programming, events, and administrative duties.
- Willingness and ability to travel regularly between YMCA branches, schools throughout the Greater Philadelphia area including both the city of Philadelphia and suburban locations.
- Passion for and knowledge of government, policy, law, civic education, and youth development.
Qualifications
Commensurate with experience.
Skills
- Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides)
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Google Meet and other virtual meeting platforms
- Public speaking and facilitation skills
- Service-learning project implementation
- Community outreach and recruitment strategies
- Curriculum development and adaptation
- Research skills and public speaking techniques
- Policy analysis and advocacy
- Leadership and mentorship
- Event planning and coordination
- Logistical planning and administrative tasks
Benefits
Free YMCA membership - access to all branches!
Sweet discounts on child care and summer camp programs.
Generous Paid Time Off + 7 paid holidays throughout the year.
Supplemental insurance benefits.
Pay
TBD
Schedule
TBD
Equal Opportunity Employer
The Greater Philadelphia YMCA is an equal opportunity employer. The Y considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, or status as a Vietnam-era or special disabled veteran or other protected classification and in accordance with applicable laws.
How to Apply
Get the ball rolling with our quick, 3-minute online application. The Greater Philadelphia YMCA is an equal opportunity employer.