Youth Development Assistant

Description

Job Summary

Youth 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 Environment
• •Fun
• •Supportive Relationships
• •Opportunities & Expectations
• •Recognition

YDAs support program planning, member engagement, and site operations to ensure every child feels valued, supported, and inspired to succeed.

Key Responsibilities

• •Arrive 20 minutes prior to program start to prepare materials and plans
• •Lead and support activities across program areas (education, arts, sports, STEM, etc.)
• •Display and review daily schedules with staff and members
• •Provide clear instructions, set expectations, and encourage participation
• •Promote member engagement and regroup members as needed for activities
• •Assist with small-group and special program opportunities
• •Ensure program areas are clean, organized, and safe
• •Monitor supplies and communicate needs to the Site Coordinator
• •Take attendance for each program and organize records for entry into MyClubHub
• •Take photos of member participation at least weekly
• •Highlight member achievements in program areas and displays
• •Communicate professionally via walkie-talkie and during interactions
• •Support Youth Program Quality Assessment (YPQA) and other evaluation processes
• •Perform other duties as assigned

Key Competencies

• •Program implementation
• •Safety awareness
• •Behavior management
• •Communication skills
• •Adaptability
• •Dependability
• •Emotional intelligence

Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Requirements

• •Must be 18 years of age or older
• •High school diploma or equivalent required
• •Strong organizational skills and effective time management
• •Ability to manage multiple tasks, set priorities, and problem-solve
• •Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
• •Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team
• •Experience working with children or teens preferred
• •Ability to be flexible, patient, and supportive
• •Commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment
• •Alignment with the mission, vision, and values of Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Illinois
• •Availability to work Monday–Friday between 2:00 PM – 6:30 PM (specific shift times vary by program)
• •Bilingual abilities are a plus

Education and Experience

• •High school diploma or equivalent required
• •Experience working with children or teens preferred
• •Prior non-profit experience a plus

Mental / Emotional Requirements

• •Proficiency in planning, organizing, and coordinating activities
• •Effective time management to balance multiple responsibilities
• •Maintain patience and resilience in challenging situations
• •Stay calm and model positivity under pressure
• •Resolve conflicts effectively and de-escalate tense situations
• •Adapt to unexpected changes or challenges during program hours

Trauma-Informed Standards of Practice

• •Ensure compliance with safety training and promote physical and emotional safety in all interactions
• •Communicate transparently, set clear expectations, and foster trust-based relationships
• •Engage with intentionality and trauma awareness; seek resources to support members, families, and staff
• •Provide equitable, inclusive, and culturally relevant services
• •Empower youth, families, and staff through voice, choice, and ownership of the Club experience
• •Build connections that promote growth, collaboration, and shared problem-solving

Five 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.