Youth Program Support Specialist

Youth Program Support Specialists are responsible for overseeing the daily operations of youth programming at one of two sites operated by the Boston Housing Authority BHA): Faneuil Gardens. Working as a team member and in partnership with the tenant association, the BHA, and community partners, Youth Program Support Specialists have the opportunity to shape, support and deliver a high-quality and creative youth development program that supports youth holistically. Through the after-school and summer programs, Youth Program Support Specialists foster a supportive community, support our youth in learning life skills and financial literacy workshops, and provide the youth with opportunities for civic engagement and community service.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Program Management and Operations

• Shape and maintain youth development program in direct collaboration with the Youth Development team and the Youth Program Site Coordinator
• Work with the tenant’s association to oversee day-to-day operations of the program
• Meet regularly with the other Youth Program Support Specialists and Youth Program Site Coordinator to discuss weekly workshops, address youth needs, and manage data and assessment (with support from community partners)
• Coordinate special events, activities, and enrichment opportunities (such as college visits, community service opportunities, field trips, etc.)

Creative Instruction and Youth Support

• Create and maintain a safe space for youth between the ages 7 - 14, implementing strategies for social-emotional well-being
• Coordinate and support 1:1 or group academic support sessions with participants as needed
• Work with team to develop and implement program curriculum, which could include weekly art workshops, as well as life skills workshops (college and career exploration, goal setting, budgeting, healthy relationships, etc.)
• Help plan and identify neighborhood-based and citywide opportunities for youth to be civically engaged in their communities and city

External Communication

• Support Youth Program Site Coordinator’s outreach efforts as it relates to recruiting youth residing at the site
• Foster partnerships and relationships with other youth-serving organizations and community stakeholders
• Attend trainings, forums, and other opportunities for professional growth

Data Monitoring

• In partnership with Youth Program Site Coordinator, maintain daily, bi-weekly, monthly, and annual data regarding youth participation, referrals, length of stay in program, outcomes, surveys, case notes, etc.

Other Duties

• Participate in the planning, and help support the tenant’s association’s events such as Unity Day and other events and activities related to community building and youth/family engagement
• Carry out other duties as needed

Reports to Youth Program Site Coordinator

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School Diploma or GED
• 1-or more years of experience in youth development or other relevant field such as direct social services
• Commitment to racial equity, relationship building, and positive change for young people
• Passion for youth development, social justice, and civic engagement
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and in a team setting
• Competency in various computer software programs, such as Microsoft Office and Internet applications
• Demonstrated project management skills, with the ability to drive projects forward, problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Ability to multi-task and handle potential conflicts with grace
• Able to work a flexible schedule (Program hours are tentatively scheduled for Monday – Thursday, 3PM – 7 PM during the school year.)