Youth Development Specialist

About the Role

The Youth Development Specialist will provide programs and services on a daily basis to youth enrolled in the club, implementing the Mission of Union League Boys & Girls Clubs. The role focuses on developing three key areas: Good Character and Citizenship, Academic Success, and Healthy Lifestyles.

Responsibilities

• Execute programs designed by the coordinators.
• Ensure members are safe and engaged in activities.
• Encourage emotional, social, and educational growth of individual members.
• Provide direct supervision of club youth members.
• Follow program design of the coordinators.
• Assist coordinators in preparing all materials for the day.
• Ensure program areas are cleaned and organized at the end of the day.
• Additional responsibilities may include:
  • Data entry
  • Staff supervision
  • Chaperoning field trips
  • Moving materials between the club and school
• Promote a safe and healthy environment, ensuring members understand and follow club safety rules.
• Plan and organize special events such as Youth of the Year Award, Youth of the Month Award, annual Gala, and other organizational events.

Requirements

• Demonstrate knowledge of principles related to youth development.
• Ability to plan effectively and lead groups, including understanding group dynamics and discipline.
• Understanding of the population of youth served.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Enrolled in college or have some college credits.
• Experience working or volunteering with children.
• Must pass a criminal background check and drug test.
• Must attend all staff meetings.
• Ability to maintain a high level of energy and adaptability to change.

Skills

• Strong communication and listening skills to effectively engage with children and provide timely feedback.
• Decision-making ability to resolve issues with input from the Youth Development and Programs Coordinator, Assistant Club Director, or Director of Club Services.
• Leadership to serve as a role model for co-workers, volunteers, and members.
• Personal initiative to work toward higher levels of responsibility and better serve youth in all programs.
• Planning and organizing skills to support special events and program implementation.

Desired Qualifications

• Desire and ability to work with children.
• Ability to accept supervision and guidance.
• Good character, integrity, and adaptability.
• Enthusiasm, good judgment, patience, and self-control.
• Ability to serve as a positive example for youth and peers in appearance, attitude, and behavior.
• Willingness to participate in required trainings by the Club, County, State, and/or funders.

The Youth Development Specialist reports directly to the Youth Development and Programs Coordinator.