Program Coordinator

Safe Spaces Program CoordinatorPilsen Administrative Offices - Chicago, IL 60608OverviewSalary Range $25.00 Hourly Level Experienced Position Type Seasonal Category Nonprofit - Social ServicesDescriptionSafe Spaces Program Coordinator (Temporary Position September 2026-December 2026)Reports To: Director of Mental Health and Youth ProgramsMISSION:Gads Hill Center, a social service organization established in 1898, creates opportunities for children and their families to build a better life through education, access to resources, and community engagement.At Gads Hill Center we envision a community in which all children and youth benefit from healthy, financially stable households that support their learning and growth. We invest in the potential of children, youth, and families through early childhood education, positive youth development, mental health and family support. Ultimately, Gads Hill Center supports building a community where all families can help their children have access to quality education in order to succeed in school and life.JOB SUMMARY: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.Duties and Responsibilities:Program ManagementSupervise 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 environmentCoordinate and implement all program activities, ensuring alignment with program goals and performance measuresLead the planning and execution of youth-driven events in North Lawndale, including logistics, vendor coordination, outreach support, and day-of-event managementFacilitate youth workforce development by supporting skill-building in communication, teamwork, leadership, and event planningGuide youth participants in developing and implementing event ideas that reflect the interests and experiences of their peers and communityBuild and maintain program schedules, track participant attendance and engagement, and support youth in completing required program hoursCollaborate with the Resource Coordinator and other staff to support recruitment and retention of youth participants within North LawndaleSupport outreach efforts by assisting youth in peer-to-peer recruitment, social media engagement, and community-based promotion within local schools, community spaces, and partner organizationsCollect and enter program data, including attendance and participant feedback, in alignment with organizational and funder requirementsEnsure that all program deliverables are met according to funder requirementsEnsure compliance with safety protocols, including supervision, incident reporting, and emergency proceduresCoordinate with community partners in North Lawndale to secure event space, resources, and wraparound supports for youth participantsParticipating 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.Qualifications:Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in youth development, education, social services, or a related fieldMinimum of 2–3 years of experience working directly with youth, particularly teens and young adults in community-based settingsAbility to train, lead, and energize a youth team to achieve program goals.Demonstrated experience planning and executing events, including logistics coordination and community engagementStrong understanding of trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and youth-centered practices, particularly in historically under-resourced communitiesFamiliarity with the North Lawndale community or surrounding communities is requiredExcellent organizational, communication, and leadership skillsMust be able to pass a criminal record and child abuse/neglect registry check.Active Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and First Aid CertificationAbility to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environmentAbility to work a flexible schedule including evenings and weekends when young people and their families are most availableBenefits:Competitive SalariesGenerous Paid Time Off403B Plan (Up to 5% match following 2 years of employment)Position Details:Hourly Wage: $25/HourSchedule: Temporary Part-timeStatus: HourlyLocation: North Lawndale/Pilsen (Lower West Side)Application Directions:To apply, please visit our careers page at