Program Manager - Bella Vista

Description

Job Summary:

The Program Manager develops, implements, and oversees organization-wide programs across all Boys & Girls Club sites, including core programs such as Torch Club, SMART Moves, Smart Girls, Passport to Manhood, Girls Who Code, Healthy Habits, and others based on youth interests and needs. This role also coordinates community engagement efforts and builds partnerships that enhance programming and member experiences. With a trauma-informed mindset, the Program Manager helps create environments where youth feel emotionally and physically safe, seen, and empowered to explore their strengths. This role also supports the Unit Director as needed to ensure daily operations align with the mission of the organization and the well-being of youth and staff.

Responsibilities:

Program Implementation & Oversight

• Plan and lead Club-wide program initiatives that foster belonging, voice, and healing-centered engagement.
• Design and facilitate programs that are inclusive, culturally responsive, gender-affirming, and developmentally appropriate.
• Maintain predictable structures and routines within all programming while allowing for flexibility and choice.
• Ensure youth receive clear instructions, meaningful feedback, and consistent support to build confidence and skills.
• Use positive reinforcement and restorative practices to guide behavior and address challenges with empathy and equity.

Youth Engagement & Empowerment

• Recruit and retain members by offering youth voice in programming decisions and facilitating peer-led opportunities.
• Create consistent systems that encourage participation, elevate youth leadership, and allow for self-expression.
• Actively mentor youth during programs and free time to deepen relationships and promote emotional resilience.

Support to Unit Director

• Collaborate with the Unit Director to ensure safe, trauma-informed operations across the Club, including supervision coverage, program planning, and staff support.
• Step in to support day-to-day site operations in the Unit Director’s absence or as needed during high-volume program times.

Evaluation, Outcomes & Data

• Lead continual evaluation of programs to ensure they align with trauma-informed best practices and meet the holistic needs of youth.
• Track member attendance, participation, and outcomes in a way that respects confidentiality, dignity, and strengths-based language.
• Ensure data is entered and reported accurately to reflect program impact and meet grant or partnership requirements.

Community Engagement & Partnerships

• Cultivate and maintain trauma-informed community partnerships that enhance Club programming and reflect shared values.
• Represent the Club at community events with a welcoming, respectful, and collaborative presence.
• Work with families, caregivers, schools, and other stakeholders to promote wraparound support for youth.

Grants & Administration

• Oversee implementation of grant-funded programs with fidelity; ensure all requirements are met and documented.
• Support the completion of grant deliverables with careful attention to trauma-sensitive practices and inclusive approaches.
• Assist in developing, monitoring, and forecasting budgets for all assigned programs, ensuring alignment with Club goals and member needs.

Staff & Volunteer Development

• Recruit, supervise, and support staff and volunteers to lead programs using trauma-informed strategies and language.
• Provide ongoing coaching, reflective supervision, and opportunities for staff development related to youth development and emotional regulation.
• Organize and facilitate staff training that promotes empathy, safety, cultural humility, and youth voice.

Marketing & Promotion

• Increase visibility of programs using materials and messaging that reflect the Club’s trauma-informed and youth-centered identity.
• Share information with families and the broader community in a way that is accessible, culturally respectful, and strength-based.

Relationships:

Internal: Maintain close, daily communication with staff, youth, and the Unit Director. Build a workplace culture grounded in trust, transparency, emotional safety, and continuous learning.

External: Collaborate with community groups, schools, families, and partners in a professional and trauma-sensitive manner. Approach all relationships with a spirit of mutual respect, equity, and care.

Qualifications

Skills/Knowledge Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in youth development, education, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in youth-serving programs with demonstrated knowledge of trauma and its impact
• Strong communication skills (verbal and written), with an emphasis on active listening, de-escalation, and strengths-based language
• Understanding of group dynamics, youth behavior, and inclusive activity planning
• Ability to lead staff and volunteers with compassion, consistency, and accountability
• Experience with grant implementation, program evaluation, and outcome measurement
• Valid driver’s license and ability to operate a 15-passenger van
• Willingness to travel and participate in occasional multi-day trips
• CPR and First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain)

Physical Requirements/Work Environment:

• High energy and the ability to multi-task while remaining emotionally grounded and supportive
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs and engage in high-energy outdoor or physical activities (e.g., hiking, canoeing, games)
• Comfortable working in both structured indoor environments and unpredictable, dynamic Club spaces

DISCLAIMER:

This job description is not intended to list every task or responsibility. Duties may evolve to meet the needs of youth, staff, and the organization. Flexibility, empathy, and a trauma-informed mindset are essential components of success in this role.