Program Manager

Who We Are 

Manchester Youth Development Center (MYDC) is a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing the lives of children, families, and communities. Our mission is to create a welcoming, safe, and caring environment, nurturing academic, social, and emotional development to empower youth to become engaged, productive citizens. Our holistic approach focuses on positive goal-setting and family mobilization, serving as a catalyst for lasting change in our community. We provide a comprehensive range of educational, recreational, and social programs, equipping young individuals with the skills and confidence necessary for success, and are committed to making a profound impact on the lives of youth in Manchester.

Who We’re Looking For

We are looking for a driven professional to join our team as a Youth Program Manager at MYDC! This position will provide strategic leadership and oversight for youth programs, ensuring the smooth and effective delivery of high quality services. This role combines program management, administration, and coordination with direct student engagement. The Program Manager will lead engaging activities and foster a supportive learning environment, as an Activity Leader. The Program Manager will act as a vital link between students, staff, and the Director of Youth Programs, fostering a dynamic and well-organized environment that promotes positive youth development at MYDC.

Essential Duties

• Develop and implement strategic plans for youth programs, aligning with MYDC's mission and goals.
• Evaluate program effectiveness and identify opportunities for improvement and innovation.
• Research and implement best practices in youth development.
• Develop and maintain relationships with community partners and stakeholders.
• Oversee program budgets, ensuring efficient resource allocation.
• Manage program schedules, logistics, and facilities.
• Develop and maintain program policies and procedures.
• Ensure accurate record-keeping and reporting.
• Oversee program evaluation and data collection.
• Recruit, train, and supervise program staff and volunteers.
• Provide ongoing support and professional development opportunities.  
• Foster a positive and collaborative team environment.
• Design and develop educational, recreational, and enrichment activities aligned with MYDC’s mission and organizational goals, ensuring activities foster positive youth development and engagement.
• Develop age-appropriate activities that are inclusive and accessible to all participants.
• Coordinate with the Program Directors regarding the use of available materials at MYDC and submit material requests in advance of specified activity, program, workshop or camps.
• Coordinate and implement a variety of educational, recreational, and enrichment activities.
• Lead and facilitate engaging activities, including arts and crafts, sports, games, and educational workshops.
• Oversee and direct the work of the Activity Assistant, providing guidance and ensuring effective implementation.
• Provide academic assistance and guidance on homework tasks, promoting academic success.
• Create a supportive learning environment that encourages students to develop their academic skills.
• Maintain accurate records of attendance, and program activities.

Compensation: $45,000 - $55,000

Experience/Education Requirement: 

• Bachelor’s degree in education, social work, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years in nonprofit program management, coordination, and/or administration.
• Proven experience managing and supervising staff or volunteers is required.
• Prior experience in education, childcare, or youth-centered programs, OR a requisite number of post-secondary credits in Education or Child Development.
• Experience in creating, planning and implementing impactful youth activities that increase engagement, skill development, or social-emotional growth.
• Compliance with all background checks and completion of requirements set forth by the Department of Human Services (DHS).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Knowledge of child development principles.
• Ability to plan and facilitate engaging activities for different age groups.
• Ability to apply youth development frameworks and create a supportive and empowering environment for youth.
• Skilled in developing and implementing educational, recreational, and enrichment activities.
• Ability to think creatively, adapt to changing situations, and find innovative solutions.
• Excellent and effective written, verbal and nonverbal communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills to effectively interact with youth, parents, and colleagues.
• Self-motivated, proactive professional; able to troubleshoot and problem solve efficiently.
• Ability to lead and work collaboratively with Activity Assistant to ensure program success.
• Ability to follow safety regulations and procedures, and maintain a safe and secure environment.
• Genuine enthusiasm for working with youth and a commitment to fostering their growth, development, and wellbeing.