Program Assistant

Program Assistant

Compass for Kids is seeking a dedicated, adaptable, and mission‑driven individual to support all aspects of our out‑of‑school‑time programs. This role is both student‑facing and program‑supportive, involving direct work with youth and essential behind‑the‑scenes tasks that ensure programs run smoothly. The ideal candidate has experience working with underserved children/youth, is reliable, professional, and committed to supporting students’ social‑emotional growth.

Compass for Kids was founded in 2011 as a church ministry and has grown into an independent nonprofit dedicated to empowering underserved children and families in Springfield. Today we operate three out‑of‑school‑time programs—Club Compass, Camp Compass, and the Youth Leadership Development Program—providing academic support, social‑emotional learning, enrichment/life‑skills/field trips, and leadership development. Visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). for more information.

• Supporting students of all ages (K‑12) at Compass programs
  • Adhering to program guidelines and structures.
  • Transporting students (e.g., picking up students from school, driving for field trips, taking youth home when necessary) using personal vehicle or company‑owned vehicles (12‑15 passenger van).
  • Leading and participating in social‑emotional learning lessons using Compass for Kids lesson plans.
  • Reinforcing program expectations and demonstrating positive personal and social habits with students.
  • Helping students manage behavior when necessary.
  • Encouraging enthusiasm and participation in activities; assisting with completion of pre‑ and post‑surveys for social‑emotional learning.
• Supporting programmatic functions
  • Accurate data entry and maintenance of program records.
  • Delivering Backpack Feeding Program bags to program sites.
  • Assisting with writing thank‑you notes and acknowledgments.
  • Assisting with special projects as assigned.
  • Creating basic social media content and highlights.
  • Sorting, preparing, and assembling program materials.
  • Responding to inquiries from families via phone or email.
  • Representing Compass for Kids at community and networking events.
  • Other duties as assigned.

• Apply appropriate behavior‑management techniques and support students from diverse and underserved populations.
• Communicate effectively with students, families, staff, and volunteers.
• Remain calm and professional in stressful situations.
• Work independently and collaboratively as part of a small team.
• Resolve conflicts peacefully and promote a positive, inclusive environment.
• Plan, prioritize, and manage multiple deadlines in a fast‑paced setting with attention to detail.
• Demonstrate strong organizational and time‑management skills.
• Use technology effectively, including Microsoft Office and Google Workspace (Gmail, Docs, Sheets, Calendar).
• Adapt to changing circumstances with flexibility and initiative.
• Commit to ongoing learning and continuous quality improvement.

• Age 18 or older.
• At least one (1) year of experience working with underserved elementary, middle, or high‑school‑aged students (preferred).
• Valid driver’s license, dependable transportation, and car insurance.
• Ability to successfully pass a criminal background and motor‑vehicle record check.

• Position type:
  Part‑time.
• Hourly rate: $18.50 per hour.
• Hours:
  
  Approximately 25 hours per week.

• Tuesdays: 2:30 – 7:00 PM.
• Wednesdays: 1:00 – 7:00 PM.
• Thursdays: 2:30 – 7:00 PM.

These core hours align with Compass for Kids’ school‑year programming and are required for this position. Additional weekly hours outside of the required schedule may be flexible and coordinated with the Director of Programs, based on program needs and staff availability. Occasional evenings and weekends are required to support special events, field trips, training sessions, or family engagement activities. During the summer months, hours will shift primarily to daytime programming, with schedules adjusted in advance to reflect Camp Compass activities.

Director of Programs.

Employees will accrue paid leave pursuant to the Illinois Paid Leave for All Workers Act (IPLAWA) at a rate of 1 hour for every 40 hours worked.

Send a resume to ryan

Or by mail at:
Compass for Kids, 1201 S. 4th St, Springfield, IL 62703.

Compass for Kids values diversity and inclusion and encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply. Candidates who are passionate about youth development and our mission are encouraged to apply, even if they do not meet every listed qualification.