Youth Program Director

Company: YMCA
Location: Champaign
Posted on: January 13, 2026

Job Description:

Take the next step in your career with this rewarding leadership opportunity. Join the Stephens Family YMCA as our Youth Program Director! Job Description The Youth Program Director is responsible for administrating, organizing, promoting, and managing many of the functions that relate to youth, teen and family programming. The position is responsible for working with other members of the management team to enable the YMCA to operate at maximum capacity. The Youth Program Director will manage current programs in place including some or all of the following: summer camps, family nights, school’s days out, after-school programming, homeschool programming and birthday parties. Qualifications Possesses a four (4) year degree in a related field or experience of at least two years directing, organizing and running similar programs. Candidates should exhibit proven knowledge in program management, staff development, and public relations. Strong organizational skills are required to maintain effective management of staff, equipment, resources, and programs. Candidates must have excellent human relations skills and experience in successfully working with diverse groups of people. Candidates should posess strong decision-making and problem-solving skills as they are critical to this position. High level of knowledge and demonstrated competence in the areas of teens programming. Incumbent must support the mission and values of the YMCA through personal words and actions. CPR/AED certification, First Aid and Emergency Procedures training required or must be obtained upon hire. Essential Functions Responsible for managing, creating, researching, budgeting, and implementing programs that meet the mission and purpose of the YMCA. Included but not limited to summer day camp, after school programs, family programming, and all other programs that apply to youth. Responsible for supervising, planning schedules, and curriculum of our Y camp and some specialty camps during the summer. Responsible for recruitment, training, performance appraisal of all staff and volunteers in assigned areas, within association policies and guidelines. Responsible for developing relationships that foster program growth, new programming opportunities for the YMCA, and a close bond of program participants. Works as part of the management team by attending staff meetings, giving well thought out input, and attending specific events that require management staff presence. Evaluates programs on a regular basis using association-approved processes. Responsible for developing collaborative efforts with entities outside the YMCA in an effort to strengthen YMCA programs, image, and resources per strategic plan. Responsible for other duties deemed necessary for effective completion of duties. Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies Engaging Community Program/Project Management Developing Self & Others Communication & Influence Required Certifications CPR/AED/1st Aid Certification and Emergency Procedures training required and obtained within 60 days upon hire date. All required onboarding documents completed upon hire.

Keywords: YMCA, Peoria , Youth Program Director, Human Resources , Champaign, Illinois