Program Director (Harlem YMCA)

YMCA of Greater New York•New York, NY

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The YMCA of Greater New York is seeking a Program Director for the Harlem YMCA. This role is responsible for the strategic and operational leadership of the Afterschool initiative, managing all aspects of a successful, holistic youth development program. The position involves team leadership, program excellence, inclusion and mental wellness, and operational management. The YMCA Afterschool program aims to create a safe and fun space for children to learn and grow, lead creative activities, and develop valuable skills, offering a rewarding experience with opportunities for leadership and interpersonal growth.

Requirements

Associate’s Degree in Child Development, Elementary Education, Physical Education, Recreation, or a related field; OR a New York State Children’s Program Administrator Credential; OR a School-Age Child Care Credential or other Office-recognized credential specific to the school-age developmental period; OR Two (2) years of college with 18 credits in Child Development, Elementary Education, Physical Education, Recreation, or a related field.
Minimum of two (2) years of direct experience working with children under the age of 13.
Minimum of one (1) year of experience in a supervisory capacity in a childcare program or related field of work.
General knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Strong interpersonal skills, leadership qualities, and comfortable working with diverse youth and adults.

Nice To Haves

Current Pediatrics CPR or First Aid certification preferred.

Responsibilities

Direct programs serving the designated grade level band (K-5 or 6-8), ensuring all activities and services are age-appropriate and aligned with DYCD program requirements.
Ensure programs and services are deeply integrated into the specific community we serve and meet the diverse needs of all community members.
Develop and execute effective strategies for recruiting and retaining participants, aiming for consistently high attendance rates and sustained program engagement.
Develop and utilize quantitative measures, quality monitoring tools, and external evaluations to demonstrate program effectiveness.
Routinely analyze data and assessment results to identify trends, measure outcomes, and implement adjustments designed to continuously improve program quality and meet or exceed all established program goals.
Successfully establish, maintain, and leverage connections with local community partners, public/private funders, and external evaluators to enhance program services, increase resource availability, and ensure sustained program success.
Foster and lead staff in the implementation of comprehensive mental wellness support for both participants and families.
Provide mental wellness resources to kids and families, and ensure staff are well-trained to create a supportive environment and identify participants who may benefit from mental wellness support/referrals.
Coordinate and implement a crisis plan to support various participant/family needs in conjunction with NYCPS school social workers, mental health staff, and external behavioral health providers.
Oversee the selection of an evidence-based SEL curriculum that is adaptable to a dynamic after-school setting (COMPASS Elementary or SONYC).
Ensure all SEL programming is deliberate and clearly defines the specific social and emotional competencies that staff seek to develop in participants.
Manage the program budget, order all supplies in a timely manner, and track all expenses using the tools provided.
Recruit and retain a strong staff team with diverse abilities and backgrounds. Team skills and schedules must ensure that all aspects of the COMPASS program are delivered with an outstanding level of program quality.
Cultivate and maintain strong, collaborative working relationships with host school administration and staff.
Proactively coordinate and discuss planned activity schedules, particularly those related to STEAM and Literacy initiatives, to ensure alignment and integration with the host school's academic goals.
Maintain accurate program documentation as required by the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Youth & Community Development (DYCD), and YMCA of Greater New York.
Understand and communicate the YMCA’s core values and the goals of the Y Afterschool Program to participants and caregivers.
Develop and maintain positive relationships with parents/guardians and caregivers through regular communication regarding their child’s strengths and areas for growth.
Manage communications regarding injuries or incidents, as needed.
Actively participate in training sessions, designated meetings, and special events.
Adhere to all Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), Department of Health (DOH), YMCA of Greater New York, school partner, and funder standards, expectations, and regulations.