Youth Development Assistant

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionDescription: Job SummaryYouth Development Assistants (YDAs) play a vital role in creating a safe, positive, and engaging after-school environment for Club members. YDAs help deliver high-quality programs and activities that support the Boys & Girls Club mission while upholding the Five Key Elements of Positive Youth Development:A Safe, Positive EnvironmentFunSupportive RelationshipsOpportunities & ExpectationsRecognitionYDAs support program planning, member engagement, and site operations to ensure every child feels valued, supported, and inspired to succeed.Key ResponsibilitiesArrive 20 minutes prior to program start to prepare materials and plansLead and support activities across program areas (education, arts, sports, STEM, etc.)Display and review daily schedules with staff and membersProvide clear instructions, set expectations, and encourage participationPromote member engagement and regroup members as needed for activitiesAssist with small-group and special program opportunitiesEnsure program areas are clean, organized, and safeMonitor supplies and communicate needs to the Site CoordinatorTake attendance for each program and organize records for entry into MyClubHubTake photos of member participation at least weeklyHighlight member achievements in program areas and displaysCommunicate professionally via walkie-talkie and during interactionsSupport Youth Program Quality Assessment (YPQA) and other evaluation processesPerform other duties as assignedKey CompetenciesProgram implementationSafety awarenessBehavior managementCommunication skillsAdaptabilityDependabilityEmotional intelligenceRequirements: Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and RequirementsMust be 18 years of age or olderHigh school diploma or equivalent requiredStrong organizational skills and effective time managementAbility to manage multiple tasks, set priorities, and problem-solveStrong communication skills (written and verbal)Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a teamExperience working with children or teens preferredAbility to be flexible, patient, and supportiveCommitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging environmentAlignment with the mission, vision, and values of Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central IllinoisAvailability to work Monday–Friday between 2:00 PM – 6:30 PM (specific shift times vary by program)Bilingual abilities are a plusEducation and ExperienceHigh school diploma or equivalent requiredExperience working with children or teens preferredPrior non-profit experience a plusMental / Emotional RequirementsProficiency in planning, organizing, and coordinating activitiesEffective time management to balance multiple responsibilitiesMaintain patience and resilience in challenging situationsStay calm and model positivity under pressureResolve conflicts effectively and de-escalate tense situationsAdapt to unexpected changes or challenges during program hoursTrauma-Informed Standards of PracticeEnsure compliance with safety training and promote physical and emotional safety in all interactionsCommunicate transparently, set clear expectations, and foster trust-based relationshipsEngage with intentionality and trauma awareness; seek resources to support members, families, and staffProvide equitable, inclusive, and culturally relevant servicesEmpower youth, families, and staff through voice, choice, and ownership of the Club experienceBuild connections that promote growth, collaboration, and shared problem-solvingFive Key Elements in Practice? Safe, Positive Environment: Promote safety, consistency, and stability. Maintain clean and organized spaces.? Fun: Create daily fun through team-building, icebreakers, and spontaneous activities.? Supportive Relationships: Build meaningful connections with youth, families, and colleagues.? Opportunities & Expectations: Help youth build skills, develop character, and pursue educational success.? Recognition: Celebrate and display member achievements. Provide positive reinforcement as youth grow and succeed. Notice of AI Use in Job Application ReviewAs part of our commitment in creating a fair, efficient, and consistent hiring process we may use artificial intelligence (AI) to help our recruiting teams organize, summarize, and analyze information provided by candidates, including resumes, application responses, and other materials submitted during the application process.AI may be used to identify patterns, highlight relevant skills, and experience, and assist in comparing a candidate’s qualifications with the requirement of a specific role. These tools are to improve efficiency and consistency while supporting more informed hiring decisions, which will ultimately be made by the hiring team.