Youth Development Assistant

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

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.