Job Opportunity

Director of Youth Opportunities

Position Number: EDRYO–RES905
Minimum Salary:   Commensurate with experience

DESCRIPTION

The Director of Youth Opportunities is responsible for development, implementation and continuous improvement of an overall plan designed to support CHA’s strategic youth outcomes.  The Director is responsible for establishing and monitoring programs and services for CHA youth; and for establishing and maintaining partnerships and relationships with youth serving and youth-focused organizations.  Works under the general supervision of the Executive Vice President for Resident Services.

Summary of Accountabilities

• Serves in a leadership role and first point of contact for Youth Opportunities within CHA.
• Implements a strategic plan for CHA Youth Opportunities, in collaboration with CHA staff, Board of Commissioners and key external partners.
• Develops and implements an annual plan of services, programs and initiatives, including anticipated outcomes, partners and funding.
• In collaboration with the Director of Community Relations and Partnerships, establishes, enhances and maintains partnerships with key governmental and non governmental agencies to provide services to CHA youth.
• In conjunction with case management service providers (e.g., FamilyWorks and Community Supportive Services programs), develops and implements detailed plans for timely dissemination of programs and/or requests to service providers.
• Coordinates with CHA FamilyWorks staff to facilitate meetings with FamilyWorks agencies’ Youth Liaisons.
• Works with CHA residents/resident organizations, such as the Central Advisory Council and the Local Advisory Councils, staff, sister agencies such as Chicago Public Schools or Chicago Park District, and contracted or partner service organizations to foster optimal utilization of youth opportunities.
• Regularly identifies key gaps and duplications in services to youth; makes recommendations to the Executive Vice President of Resident Services accordingly; works with the CHA Grants Department, as appropriate, to identify and pursue external funding opportunities to fill gaps.
• Leverages the “CitySpan” data base, which captures and tracks CHA youth participation in city-wide services and activities, in order to understand who is engaged in what, what’s needed, etc.
• Collaborates with the CHA staff liaison to residents/resident organizations and the Office of the Ombudsman in communicating with residents regarding youth issues, program planning and program implementation.
• Manages multiple programs and projects simultaneously.
• May serve as external spokesperson regarding Youth Opportunities.
• May serve as the CHA representative on city-wide task forces and committees regarding youth.

REQUIREMENTS 

This position requires a minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work or related field and at least five years of experience working in a professional capacity with youth and/or youth-serving agencies; minimum of two years experience in leadership or project/program management positions.  Candidate must have experience working with low-income families. Some knowledge of youth development theory and youth service models preferred.  The candidate must demonstrate excellent verbal (including public speaking) and written communication skills.  The successful candidate must possess strong planning skills and the ability to implement multiple large scale priority projects simultaneously.  The candidate will be personable and able to motivate others, an excellent collaborator, results-oriented, and have excellent follow through.  The position requires familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite, (e.g., Word, Power Point and Excel).  Will work in the field regularly with external partners; must possess a valid Driver’s License.

Apply Now!