Youth Development Professional

Position Summary

The Youth Development Professional (YDP) plays an important role in creating a safe, positive, and engaging environment for youth at the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Colorado River (BGCCR). Reporting to the Unit Director, this position is responsible for supervising Club members and providing diverse, age-appropriate programming and activities that support positive youth development.

Youth Development Professionals have the opportunity to engage with members through games, arts and crafts, STEM projects, physical activities, educational programs, field trips, and more. Members range in age from 5-10 years old.

The ideal candidate is dependable, energetic, caring, and passionate about working with youth. This position requires someone who can actively engage with members, provide appropriate supervision, follow direction, and contribute to a safe and welcoming Club environment.

Key Responsibilities

Youth Development & Programming

• Plan, implement, supervise, and evaluate a variety of programs, services, and activities for Club members.
• Lead engaging activities in areas such as education, technology, STEM, arts and crafts, physical education and sports, health and wellness, and recreation.
• Create opportunities for members to participate, learn new skills, build confidence, and have fun.
• Adapt activities as appropriate for different ages, abilities, interests, and needs.
• Support field trips, special events, and other Club activities as assigned.
• Encourage participation while promoting gender and cultural inclusion within Club programs.

Member Supervision & Safety

• Provide active and appropriate supervision of Club members at all times.
• Maintain a safe, positive, and welcoming environment for all members.
• Monitor member behavior and provide appropriate guidance, redirection, and support when needed.
• Follow all BGCCR safety policies, procedures, and expectations.
• Maintain appropriate staff-to-member boundaries and professional conduct.
• Immediately communicate safety concerns, incidents, or other significant issues to the Unit Director or appropriate supervisor.
• Help ensure members follow Club rules and expectations.

Member Engagement & Relationships

• Build positive and supportive relationships with Club members.
• Serve as a positive role model through professional, respectful, and responsible behavior.
• Provide appropriate guidance and direction through supportive relationships with members.
• Encourage positive interactions, teamwork, respect, and good decision-making.
• Help create an environment where members feel welcomed, included, and supported.

Club Operations

• Assist with maintaining program areas and ensuring supplies and equipment are properly cared for.
• Help ensure the Club is clean, organized, well-maintained, and attractive.
• Assist with setup and cleanup of activities, programs, and special events.
• Work collaboratively with the Unit Director and other Club staff.
• Follow established schedules, procedures, and supervisory direction.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Unit Director.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

• Must be at least 16 years of age at the time of hire.
• Must be able to successfully pass a background check.
• Must be able to successfully pass a drug test.
• Ability and willingness to work directly with youth ages 5-10.
• Ability to appropriately supervise groups of children.
• Must be dependable and able to maintain a consistent work schedule.
• Ability to follow directions, accept redirection, and work effectively as part of a team.
• Previous experience working with children is preferred but not required.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Ability to build positive and appropriate relationships with youth.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to lead and participate in games, activities, arts and crafts, STEM projects, sports, and other Club programming.
• Ability to effectively supervise multiple youth in an active environment.
• Ability to maintain patience, professionalism, and good judgment.
• Strong awareness of youth safety and appropriate supervision practices.
• Ability to work collaboratively with coworkers and supervisors.
• Dependable, responsible, and willing to take initiative.
• Ability to create and maintain a positive, inclusive, and engaging environment.
• Commitment to BGCCR's mission and the youth and families we serve.

Working Conditions

• Position involves regular interaction and active engagement with children ages 5-10.
• Work may include indoor and outdoor activities, recreation, sports, field trips, and special events.
• Must be able to actively supervise members throughout assigned program areas.
• Applicants should be open to working at BGCCR locations in:
  • Bullhead City, Arizona
  • Fort Mohave, Arizona
  • Laughlin, Nevada
• Work schedule and assigned location may vary based on Club needs.

Compensation & Benefits

BGCCR offers Youth Development Professionals a supportive, mission-driven work environment with opportunities to grow within the organization. Additional benefits include:

• Guaranteed hours
• Opportunities for advancement
• 20% discount at Boys & Girls Clubs Thrift Stores
• Opportunities to gain valuable experience working with youth and supporting the community

BGCCR is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.