Safe Spaces Program Coordinator

Gads Hill Center•Chicago, IL

11d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Program Coordinator is responsible for the planning, implementation, and oversight of the My Chi. My Future. Safe Spaces program at Gads Hill Center, serving youth in the North Lawndale community. This role leads youth workforce development activities and oversees the planning and execution of youth-driven community events that provide safe, engaging spaces for teens and young adults. The Program Coordinator ensures that programming is culturally responsive and community-informed, centering youth voice, leadership, and positive youth development while addressing the unique strengths and needs of youth in North Lawndale.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in youth development, education, social services, or a related field
Minimum of 2–3 years of experience working directly with youth, particularly teens and young adults in community-based settings
Ability to train, lead, and energize a youth team to achieve program goals.
Demonstrated experience planning and executing events, including logistics coordination and community engagement
Strong understanding of trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and youth-centered practices, particularly in historically under-resourced communities
Familiarity with the North Lawndale community or surrounding communities is required
Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills
Must be able to pass a criminal record and child abuse/neglect registry check.
Active Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and First Aid Certification
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Ability to work a flexible schedule including evenings and weekends when young people and their families are most available

Responsibilities

Supervise and mentor employed youth participants (ages 16–24) from the North Lawndale community, supporting their roles as paid program participants while fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment
Coordinate and implement all program activities, ensuring alignment with program goals and performance measures
Lead the planning and execution of youth-driven events in North Lawndale, including logistics, vendor coordination, outreach support, and day-of-event management
Facilitate youth workforce development by supporting skill-building in communication, teamwork, leadership, and event planning
Guide youth participants in developing and implementing event ideas that reflect the interests and experiences of their peers and community
Build and maintain program schedules, track participant attendance and engagement, and support youth in completing required program hours
Collaborate with the Resource Coordinator and other staff to support recruitment and retention of youth participants within North Lawndale
Support outreach efforts by assisting youth in peer-to-peer recruitment, social media engagement, and community-based promotion within local schools, community spaces, and partner organizations
Collect and enter program data, including attendance and participant feedback, in alignment with organizational and funder requirements
Ensure that all program deliverables are met according to funder requirements
Ensure compliance with safety protocols, including supervision, incident reporting, and emergency procedures
Coordinate with community partners in North Lawndale to secure event space, resources, and wraparound supports for youth participants
Participating in supervision meetings and workshops within the agency and outside.
Participating in civic engagement activities that advance the mission of Gads Hill Center.
Advancing parent leadership development.
Performing other duties as assigned.