21st CENTURY GRANT & STUDENT SUPPORT SPECIALIST

Description

POSITION SUMMARY:

The YMCA of Southeastern NC is seeking a detail-oriented and mission-driven Grant & Student Support Specialist to lead the oversight and administration of our 21st Century Community Learning Center grant. Reporting to the Youth Services & Athletics Program Director, this role ensures full grant compliance, supports audits and reporting, and guides staff in maintaining accurate documentation and program alignment. With a focus on data management, training support, and cross-team collaboration, the Specialist plays a vital role in strengthening youth development programs and driving positive outcomes for the students and families we serve. 

OUR CULTURE:

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.  

OUR BENEFITS:

At the YMCA, we believe our people are our greatest asset, and we invest in your well-being, growth, and success. As a part-time team member, you’ll enjoy a supportive, purpose-driven workplace and a range of exciting benefits designed to help you thrive:

• Free YMCA Membership—Enjoy complimentary access to all YMCA facilities, including pools, fitness centers, and group exercise classes, to support your personal wellness.
• Flexible Schedules—With hours available seven days a week, you can find a schedule that fits your lifestyle. 
• Professional Growth—Build your career with ongoing training opportunities and earn nationally recognized YMCA Leadership Certifications.
• Retirement Savings—All staff are eligible to participate in our 403(b) retirement savings plan.
• Program Discounts—Save 50–75% on YMCA programs, including youth sports, swim lessons, and summer camps.
• Inclusive Community—Connect with others across the Y movement through YMCA Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) that promote belonging, support, and professional networking.

Requirements

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Grant Oversight and Management:

• Oversee all administrative and operational functions of the 21st Century grant to ensure full compliance.
• Prepare and submit required documentation and reports to internal and external stakeholders on a timely basis.
• Monitor budgets and expenditures to ensure alignment with grant objectives and guidelines.
• Coordinate with program teams to ensure accurate implementation and documentation of grant-funded activities.

Audit and Documentation Preparation:

• Maintain comprehensive and accurate records related to financial, programmatic, and compliance requirements.
• Prepare documentation for audits and collaborate with auditors to provide all necessary data and reports.
• Ensure all materials meet the standards of the YMCA and funding agencies.

Reporting and Data Management:

• Provide regular data updates and program reports to the Executive Director of School Age Childcare and the Director of Administration and Finance.
• Complete all necessary entries in relevant grant reporting platforms.
• Monitor participant data, attendance, and grant-related outcomes to ensure accuracy and effectiveness.

Training and Staff Support:

• Develop and deliver training sessions for program staff on grant compliance and documentation procedures.
• Provide technical assistance and ongoing guidance to ensure that staff adhere to grant expectations.
• Collaborate with staff to troubleshoot issues and implement continuous improvements.

Compliance and Quality Assurance:

• Monitor all aspects of program delivery to ensure compliance with grant and organizational policies.
• Identify areas of risk or non-compliance and implement corrective actions.
• Support continuous quality improvement across all funded sites.

Communication and Collaboration:

• Maintain effective communication with leadership, staff, and external partners regarding timelines, expectations, and compliance requirements.
• Collaborate with families to address attendance or participation issues and develop action plans to meet grant goals.
• Act as a liaison between departments to ensure effective coordination and mutual understanding.

Community Engagement and Support:

• Represent the YMCA at meetings and community events related to the 21st Century program.
• Support and promote YMCA fundraising initiatives, including the Annual Campaign, contributing to annual goals.
• Serve as an ambassador of YMCA values and mission in all interactions.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associate’s degree in Education, Early Childhood Education, Business Administration, Nonprofit Management, or a related field; Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in youth development or grant-funded program operations.
• Strong working knowledge of 21st Century grants or similar federal/state grants is preferred.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and data management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and grant management software.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks with attention to detail and deadlines.
• Demonstrated ability to train and support staff in compliance and documentation.
• Experience working with a variety of individuals and the ability to build positive relationships across different backgrounds. 

YMCA COMPETENCIES (Team Leader):

Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fund-raising.

Collaboration: Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view, and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.

Operational Effectiveness: Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience. Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures, and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.

Personal Growth: Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change, and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths and limitations and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology

JOB TITLE: 21st Century Grant & Student Support Specialist 

FLSA STATUS: Part-time, non-exempt, hourly 

JOB CODE: 21 CENT SUPP SPEC

JOB GRADE: Grade 8 (SAP 2024) 

REPORTS TO: Youth Services & Athletics Program Director

LEADERSHIP LEVEL: LEADER

REVISION DATE: 06/2025

PRIMARY FUNCTION/DEPARTMENT: Youth