Youth Development Professional

Overview

Under the Unit Director's supervision, Youth Development Professionals (YDPs or staff) are responsible for providing diverse programming opportunities to members. Members range from 6-to 18. Youth Development Professionals plan, implement, supervise, and evaluate programs/activities offered in program areas, such as education, technology, arts and crafts, physical education/sports, and health and wellness.

Develop young people's capacity to engage in positive behaviors that nurture their own well-being, set personal goals, and live successfully as self-sufficient adults.

Enable youth to become proficient in basic educational disciplines apply to learn to everyday situations and embrace technology to achieve success in a career.

Help young people develop fitness, positive use of leisure time, skills for stress management, appreciation for the environment, and social skills.

Responsible for overseeing the planning, development, implementation, and evaluation of a broad range of programs in the Boys & Girls Club Core Program Area of Education and Career Development within a designated Club.

Enable youth to develop their creativity and cultural awareness through knowledge and appreciation of the visual arts, crafts, performing arts, and creative writing.

Creates an environment that facilitates the achievement of Youth Development Outcomes.

Promotes and stimulates daily learning center program participation as well as participation in designated national and special event programs.

Orients new members to program area, special events, and opportunities as well as club safety, program, and disciplinary rules.

Provides guidance and role modeling to members.

Effectively implements and administers programs, services, and activities for drop-in members and visitors.

Recognizes club members for program participation and achievement.

Maintains records and tracks attendance and participation.

Monitors and evaluates programs, services, and activities to ensure the safety of members, quality of programs, and appearance of the Club at all times. Prepares periodic activity reports.

Maintains order and discipline of club members.

Supervises and trains volunteers and program assistants.

Ensures a productive work environment by participating in club leader meetings.

Participates as part of a team to run quality programs by helping out where needed or directed, which may include driving the club van.

Participates in training/educational opportunities to expand knowledge and skills.

A High School diploma is required; a college degree in a related field (or working toward one) is preferred.

Experience working with youth, ages 6-18 years old, with an understanding of youth development.

Demonstrated experience conducting youth activities.

CPR and First Aid Certification.

The combined experience and/or formal training equivalent to a minimum of three years includes:

• Experience working with youth and knowledge of youth development.
• Formal training, and/or experience teaching youth while creating engaging learning experiences.

Ability to motivate youth and manage behavior problems.

Ability to plan and implement quality learning programs for youth.

Ability to organize and supervise members in a safe environment.

Time management, ability to multi-task and prioritize effectively.

Strong communication skills, both oral and written.

Ability to manage daily administrative tasks without losing sight of long-term goals and planning.

Sufficient strength, agility, and mobility to perform essential functions of the position.

Inside average office environment. Average office noise levels. No personal protective equipment is required.

Able to lift up to 25 pounds.

May participate in special programs and/or events.

May be required to drive the Club van.

Maintains close, daily contact with Club staff (professional and volunteer), Club members, and supervisor to receive/provide information, discuss issues, explain guidelines/instructions; instruct; and advise/counsel.

Maintains contact with external community groups, schools, members' parents, and others to assist in resolving problems.

Frequent standing and walking; occasional lifting (up to 25 pounds of school supplies or recreational equipment waist height); hearing and understanding speech at normal levels; and speaking so that others may understand at normal levels.

Boys & Girls Clubs are often stressful, busy, and noisy environments. YDP’s are expected to work in situations where many members and facilities-related activities take place at the same time.