Youth Development Specialist

Location: Leesburg Branch, 1851 Griffin Road Unit #1, Leesburg, FL 34748

About the Role

The Youth Development Specialist (YDS) supports Club Leadership in providing an Outcome-Driven Club Experience across a variety of programming areas that align with our Core Program Pillars: Academic Success and Career Development, Character and Leadership Development, Health and Life Skills, the Arts, Sports, Fitness and Recreation, and Social-Emotional Well-Being. This position works directly with youth to ensure their safety, well-being, and development through interactive play and structured activities. The YDS is self-motivated, mature, energetic, and maintains clear, healthy boundaries with Club members, parents, staff, and volunteers. They communicate and interact with youth in an age-appropriate, motivational, and positive manner, adapting to a dynamic work environment while remaining calm and solving problems in stressful situations.

Responsibilities

• Program Development and Implementation: Plan, develop, implement, and evaluate activities in the assigned program area. Maintain facilities, equipment, and supplies, reporting any issues to the supervisor. Review and manage program supply inventory, requesting orders as needed. Facilitate Club-specific and BGCA core programs as directed.
• Youth Development: Provide an active, engaged presence to prepare youth for success while creating a safe and healthy Club environment. Affirm positive behavior in members and deliver coaching or redirection when needed. Model and teach self-confidence, self-awareness, and build supportive relationships with youth.
• Program Administration: Collect and track Club member attendance, coursework, and behavior data. Participate in Club staff meetings and training events. Ensure a productive work environment through collaboration and communication.
• Daily Program Activities: Set up and clean program areas daily. Provide members with a daily program agenda and participation expectations. Ensure adherence to child and Club safety guidelines. Facilitate activities aligned with BGCCF Core Program Pillars.
• Administration and Reporting: Manage administrative functions of program areas and assigned resources. Maintain proper record-keeping and reporting, including activities conducted, daily participation figures, notable achievements, and any issues or problems.
• Relationships:
  • Internal: Maintain daily contact with Club staff, Support Office personnel, volunteers, Club members, and supervisors to exchange information, address issues, and provide or clarify guidelines.
  • External: Cultivate relationships with community partners, schools, and organizations to create a sustainable pipeline of volunteers. Engage with external groups to build collaborative efforts and ensure volunteer support for Club activities.
• Safety and Compliance: Uphold all child safety standards and Club policies. Promote a culture of safety and vigilance regarding potential risks during activities.

Requirements

• A high school diploma or GED is required; an associate's degree in education, youth development, or a related field is preferred.
• Experience working or volunteering with youth in an educational or developmental setting is preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to plan, develop, and implement high-quality, age-appropriate programs emphasizing academic success, character development, and healthy lifestyles.
• Strong interpersonal skills with a proven ability to motivate and inspire youth positively, fostering an environment conducive to learning and personal growth.
• Adaptability and willingness to support innovative ideas that benefit the Club and its members.
• Proficiency in trauma-informed, strengths-based problem-solving to guide youth in academic and personal development.
• Experience working with diverse cultures and backgrounds, demonstrating inclusivity and cultural competence in program delivery and youth interactions.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills for effective interaction with Club members, parents, staff, and community partners.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with staff, volunteers, and external stakeholders.
• Basic proficiency in data collection and reporting, including tracking attendance, program participation, and member progress.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and participation in training opportunities.
• CPR and First Aid Certification preferred; willingness to obtain certification within the first 90 days of employment if not already certified.

Skills

• Builds Positive Relationships: Creates and maintains strong, trusting connections with youth, colleagues, and stakeholders. Engages with young people in a fun, approachable manner while fostering a safe and supportive environment.
• Drives Engagement: Motivates youth to actively participate in programs and activities, supporting their academic and personal development.
• Cultivates Innovation: Develops project-based learning and high-yield educational activities through creativity and innovative thinking.
• Plans and Aligns: Prioritizes work to meet commitments aligned with organizational goals, including program administration and evaluation.
• Situational Adaptability: Adapts approach and demeanor in real time to match shifting demands, effectively engaging diverse youth and responding to dynamic program needs.

Working Conditions

• Works in both indoor and outdoor environments, including office or facility settings, with exposure to varying weather conditions.
• Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating instructions, and policy manuals.
• Must be prepared to perform CPR or first aid if needed.
• Works in environments frequented by children and families, requiring adherence to safety and conduct standards.
• Adaptable to a dynamic work schedule, including evenings and weekends, to support volunteer activities and events.

Physical and Mental Requirements

• Physically capable of lifting up to 50 pounds, standing, sitting, or walking for extended periods, bending, and reaching.
• High energy level when necessary, with visual and auditory acuity to monitor the environment and ensure safety.
• Ability to reach, grasp, and manipulate supplies and tools, and effectively manage classroom dynamics.
• Mental resilience and focus in a busy, sometimes noisy environment.
• Capacity to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, prioritize effectively, and adapt to changing daily plans.
• Situational awareness and quick decision-making skills to respond to safety concerns.
• Operates computers and office equipment (e.g., copy machines, phones, printers, tablets).
• Manages inventory and maintains accurate records of program supplies in diverse settings, including sports equipment, audiovisual devices, and art supplies.
• Strong interpersonal skills for positive interactions with volunteers, youth, community members, parents, and staff.
• Ability to take and follow verbal directions effectively and communicate clearly with youth, supervisors, and staff.
• Flexibility and adaptability in response to changing situations and requirements.

Pre-Employment and Compliance Requirements

• Must successfully pass a pre-employment drug screening and background check.
• Must obtain and maintain a valid OCPS Vendor Badge.
• Continued employment contingent upon passing randomized drug screenings.
• Department of Children and Families Level II Background Check required.