Portage - Youth Development Professional (School Year)

Description

Location: 5895 Evergreen Ave., Portage, IN 46368

Position Type: Part Time (up to 29 hours a week)

Job Shift: Afternoon 1pm to 7pm Monday through Friday, Occasional weekend shifts for rentals

Hourly Rate: $13.00

Position Summary
The Youth Development Professional (YDP) is responsible for creating, planning, implementing, and supervising high-quality, grant-aligned programs that support the academic, social-emotional, and physical development of youth. YDPs may be assigned to a variety of program areas including the Art Room, Gym, STEM Room, Games Room, or Cafeteria, depending on organizational needs and individual strengths.

This role is essential in providing a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment where youth can learn, grow, and build positive relationships. YDPs are responsible for delivering structured programming, supporting grant outcomes, and fostering youth voice, leadership, and skill development across all program areas at any of our Club.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

Programming & Instruction

• Plan and implement engaging, developmentally appropriate, and grant-aligned programming within assigned program areas (Arts, STEM, Sports & Recreation, Games Room, or Cafeteria/Nutrition).
• Facilitate a variety of activities such as:
  • Creative arts (visual, digital, performing, literary, applied)
  • STEM (science, technology, engineering, math, coding, and hands-on learning)
  • Sports and recreation (gym activities, games, and physical wellness)
  • Social recreation (structured games, tournaments, and team-building)
  • Nutrition and food service support (snack programs, cafeteria supervision, and healthy habits)
• Adapt programming to meet the needs, interests, and skill levels of youth.
• Maintain structured daily schedules and routines to ensure smooth program flow.

Youth Development & Engagement

• Build positive, supportive relationships with youth and serve as a mentor and role model.
• Create a physically and emotionally safe, inclusive, and engaging environment.
• Promote youth voice, leadership, teamwork, and positive behavior.
• Support youth in developing social-emotional skills, confidence, and goal-setting habits.
• Encourage participation, creativity, and exploration across all program areas.

Program Operations & Grant Compliance

• Ensure all programming aligns with organizational goals, grant requirements, and expected outcomes.
• Track attendance, participation, and required program data accurately.
• Maintain clean, organized, and safe program spaces.
• Monitor and manage supplies, equipment, and inventory within assigned areas.
• Follow all safety, supervision, and organizational policies and procedures.

Collaboration & Professionalism

• Work collaboratively with Club leadership, staff, and community partners.
• Support overall Club operations, including transitions, special events, and field trips.
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.
• Communicate effectively with team members and leadership.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support Club success.

Work Environment & Flexibility

• YDPs may rotate or be assigned to different program areas such as the Art Room, Gym, STEM Room, Games Room, or Cafeteria.
• Flexibility, teamwork, and a willingness to support various program areas are essential.