Drop-In Manager

AYA Youth Collective•Grand Rapids, MI

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Manager of the Drop-In Center will lead and oversee daily operations, staff, and programming for a center serving youth in crisis ages 14–24. This role is critical in providing a safe, inclusive, and trauma-informed space where youth can access immediate support, basic needs, and long-term resources. The Manager will ensure the center operates efficiently, complies with all policies and procedures, and meets the needs of youth in a way that fosters trust, resilience, and empowerment.

Requirements

A degree in human services and/or experience in youth development.
Pass all required background checks
Comply with the agency’s written policies and procedures
Minimum 2 years Experience managing a complex team of 3 or more individuals
Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with frequent interaction with youth experiencing trauma, homelessness, or other crises.
Demonstrated ability in being able to de-escalate highly energetic situations
Minimum of 2 years Case Management experience
Flexibility for non-traditional work hours (evenings and weekends)
Ability to work in all weather conditions
Ability to perform moderate physical work, exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally and 10-20 pounds frequently and 3+ hours of consistent movement.
Dedication to teamwork, professional development and overall excellence
Exceptional communication and interpersonal abilities.
Support other initiatives, strategies and duties as assigned by AYA Leadership

Nice To Haves

Experience working with LGBTQ+ youth populations
Lived experience and/or an understanding of youth homelessness, trauma and/or mental health/substance use concerns and knowledge of de-escalation techniques
Strong knowledge of trauma-informed care, youth development, and crisis intervention techniques.
Excellent leadership and team management skills.
Ability to handle high-stress situations with professionalism and composure.
Proficient in Google Chrome and data management software.
Availability for professional development activities and community events outside of regular work hours.
CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
De-escalation and crisis intervention training certification preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead, Manage and Hold Accountable: Set and communicate goals in alignment with the overall objectives of AYA Youth Collective. Provide macro-level oversight for growth and expansion, emphasizing big-picture strategies. Ensure effective communication and performance of direct reports through consistent task management and meeting cadence. Foster a positive and inclusive work environment, providing resources and training to enable staff to excel.
Create Safe & Stable Environment: Ensure that AYA's environment fosters belonging while being welcoming, inclusive and safe for members, staff, volunteers, community partners and donors. Build meaningful and trusting relationships with youth as the expert in their own lives and empower them to set their own goals and recognize their own strengths. Model and promote AYA's philosophy of care, which includes Positive Youth Development, Trauma Informed Care and Harm Reduction. Quickly assess, recognize and intervene in possible safety compromises, difficult conversations and escalating behaviors. Grow relationships with community partners and employers, advocating and facilitating warm connections to assist youth in achieving their goals.
Service Delivery: Supervise Youth Advocates in Case Management and supporting youth navigating complex community systems in recovering vital documents, improve health and wellness outcomes and education, employment and housing status. Oversee flow and day to day of Drop In (member engagement, community engagement, staff support, and observe building maintenance needs). Model excellent communication skills by keeping members, staff, and volunteers up to date of events and opportunities.
Drop In Facility Management: Supervise and support a team of youth advocates, case managers, and volunteers. Provide ongoing training and professional development for staff on trauma-informed care, de-escalation techniques, and best practices for working with youth in crisis. Foster a collaborative, supportive team culture that prioritizes the well-being of both staff and youth. Manage the drop-in center’s budget, tracking expenses and resource needs. Ensure compliance with grant requirements and maintain accurate records for funding reports. Oversee facility maintenance and coordinate repairs as needed.