Metro Youth Program Director

YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit•Detroit, MI

8d•Onsite

About The Position

The YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit is a non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening the foundation of community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Imagine going to work knowing that what you do each day positively affects the lives of the people in your community. Working at the Y, you’ll discover more than just a job—you’ll enjoy a career with the chance to make a lasting difference in the lives of those around you. POSITION SUMMARY: Under the direction of the Executive Director, the Program Director provides leadership for the day-to-day operations, implementation, and quality of the Metro Youth branch programs. This position leads staff, coordinates program logistics and supports community partnerships, ensuring program safety, engagement, and meaningful experiences that support positive outcomes for youth and families. The Program Director works collaboratively with branch leadership, school and community partners, YMCA teams to expand program impact and connect youth and their families to resources and opportunities that advance the YMCA mission.

Requirements

Experience working with youth is preferred.
Classroom experience preferred.
Bachelor's degree in related field required.
Meets the requirements set forth by the state-licensing agency.
Documentation of DHS clearance prior to starting work, TB skin test within 30 days, and CPR, First Aid, AED, and Child Safe certifications are required within 60 days.
Complete Blood Borne Pathogens training, Redwoods, and concussion training as required.

Responsibilities

Lead the day-to-day operations and delivery of assigned youth development programs, ensuring programs are organized, effective, and aligned with YMCA mission and values.
Supervise, coach, and support youth development staff, interns, and assigned vendors, fostering accountability, teamwork, professional growth, and positive morale.
Provide clear direction and make timely decisions that support the success of program participants, staff, and daily program operations.
Develop, plan, and implement engaging, culturally relevant, and developmentally appropriate programming that supports youth growth, leadership, and positive identity.
Lead and support Y Achievers programming, including scheduled evening and weekend workshops, college tours, field trips, overnight experiences, the annual out-of-state college tour, Achievers Summit, and other program experiences, as needed to support participant engagement and program success.
Create an environment where youth, families, and staff feel welcomed, respected, connected, and a sense of belonging.
Serve as a visible representative and advocate for the program, building positive relationships with youth, families, schools, community organizations, and other partners.
Coordinate daily schedules, staff assignments, program rotations, transitions, and activities to ensure effective and efficient program delivery.
Ensure the safety, care, supervision, and well-being of participants by consistently following YMCA policies, procedures, and applicable safety protocols.
Support the implementation of curriculum, staff training, and professional development opportunities that strengthen the quality and consistency of youth programming.
Manage assigned youth initiatives, including Achievers 2.0, summer enrichment opportunities, and other school- or community-based programs.
Collaborate with branch and program leadership to establish and achieve program goals, objectives, participation targets, and desired youth outcomes.
Support recruitment and engagement strategies to attract and retain youth participants and strengthen program participation.
Develop and maintain effective relationships with school districts, enrichment providers, community organizations, and other program partners.
Coordinate transportation and logistical needs for program activities, including securing buses and supporting safe participant transitions and field trip operations.
Maintain accurate program records, including attendance, participant data, files, surveys, supplies, and other required documentation.
Monitor program resources and inventory and ensure staff have the supplies, materials, and resources necessary for effective program delivery.
Collect and utilize participant and parent feedback, program data, and other information to evaluate program effectiveness and identify opportunities for improvement.
Participate in YMCA meetings, trainings, national youth development opportunities, and professional learning to strengthen program practices and incorporate relevant resources and best practices.
Perform administrative responsibilities and other duties as assigned to support the successful operation, growth, and community impact of the branch’s youth development programs.