Director of Youth and Family Programming

Director of Youth and Family Programming

Position Summary

The Director of Youth and Family Programming is responsible for developing, implementing, managing, and evaluating youth and family enrichment programs across Saranac Lake and Malone. This position creates meaningful opportunities for youth, children, and families while building strong community partnerships. The Director oversees out-of-school care, summer camps, and specialized enrichment while ensuring regulatory compliance, staff leadership, and fiscal sustainability.

Essential Responsibilities

Program Development & Management

• Identify community needs and trends to design and deliver high-quality youth and family initiatives.
• Develop, coordinate, and evaluate after-school care, seasonal camps, and specialty offerings.
• Create engaging programs that promote youth development, healthy living, arts, and active play.
• Maintain program schedules, registrations, and details in the YMCA management system.
• Monitor enrollment, program quality, budgets, and revenues to ensure financial sustainability.
• Ensure program sites meet all YMCA policies, NYS DOH children's camp regulations, and state licensing standards.

Community Partnerships & Outreach

• Build and maintain relationships with local schools, organizations, and community partners.
• Represent the YMCA at local meetings, community fairs, and tabling events.
• Actively promote programs and implement strategies to expand community participation.
• Gather feedback from youth, families, and participants to guide future program offerings.
• Serve as a visible representative of the YMCA to strengthen local connections.

Leadership & Program Operations

• Recruit, train, supervise, and support program staff, instructors, and volunteers.
• Ensure staff complete all required safety certifications, background checks, and training.
• Coordinate program calendars, facility use, supplies, field trips, and daily operations.
• Maintain accurate program records, compliance documentation, and inspection readiness.
• Support the YMCA's overall mission, strategic priorities, and commitment to inclusion.

 Qualifications & Core Competencies

• Bachelor's degree preferred in recreation, youth development, education, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Experience in program development, camp management, or licensed youth programming.
• Ability to build collaborative relationships with community partners and school districts.
• Knowledge of state child care licensing and NYS DOH camp regulations.
• Strong organizational, communication, problem-solving, and budget-tracking skills.
• Ability to manage multi-site operations and travel locally between program locations.