Youth Development Specialist @ St. Frances Cabrini Academy
Title: Youth Development Specialist
Department/Location: Programs/St. Frances Cabrini Academy
Compensation: $16.50/Hour
Organization Description: The mission of Gene Slay’s Girls & Boys Club (GSGBC) is to empower girls and boys in the St. Louis metropolitan area, especially those who need us most, to realize their physical, intellectual, and emotional potential.
Since 2018, GSGBC has embraced trauma-informed care in its operations and service delivery to members and their families. Drawing from models like the Sanctuary Model, Missouri Model, and Conscious Discipline, the organization integrates trauma-informed principles into its culture and practices. Staff receive training to understand the impacts of trauma and effectively address related behaviors. The Conscious Discipline Model emphasizes safety, connection, and problem-solving, enhancing support for children’s emotional and behavioral needs. GSGBC is committed to fostering a supportive, empowering environment where members and families can thrive.
GSGBC offers afterschool and summer programming for youth ages 6-16, serving more than 700 youth annually. GSGBC supports youth development and holistic health with programs that include Academics, Athletics, Character Building, Healthy Living, College & Career Readiness and The Arts.
Schedule:
The Youth Development Specialist (YDS) at St. Frances Cabrini Academy (SFCA) works 17 - 20 hours per week through the school year, with an anticipated schedule of 2:30 pm to 6:00 pm Monday – Friday. When SFCA dismisses early (approximately one time per month, on Fridays) the afterschool program starts at 1:00 pm, and the YDS will arrive at 12:30 pm. The program will follow SFCA’s school calendar. No afterschool program will run on days when SFCA is closed to children. This is a nine-month position employed August – May.
Primary Function:
The Youth Development Specialist (YDS) is passionate about working with youth and is responsible for the delivery and implementation of program activities in accordance with the established program plan. The YDS fosters an environment of positive outcomes for youth and promotes the development of academic, physical, intellectual and emotional potential of our members.
Key Roles (Essential Responsibilities):
- Implement the components of trauma-informed care
- Supervision and behavior management of members
- Implement and oversee evidence-based programs
- Be a positive role model for youth
- Able to build and sustain relationships with youth and parents
- Leadership skills should include demonstrated ability in negotiation, problem solving, and program implementation including de-escalation practices
- Implement curricula that assist children and youth to succeed in our core program areas of Academics, Athletics, Character Building, Healthy Living, Arts, and College & Career Readiness.
- Maintain accurate records
- Actively participate in all training sessions and team and staff meetings
- Work collaboratively with peers
- Ensure that youth development principles are incorporated into all program activities
- Complete other duties as assigned for the overall operations of the club
- Demonstrate strong oral and written communication skills
- Demonstrate ability to establish and maintain relationships with Program Manager(s), Program and Compliance Officer and additional Program staff
Skills & Knowledge Required:
- Possess knowledge of human development and trends in youth development
- 2 – 3 years previous experience working with children and youth in a group setting
- High School diploma or equivalency, required; Associates or Bachelor’s Degree in Education, Human Services, Psychology, preferred
- Ability to organize and supervise members in a supportive and safe environment
- Ability to implement GSGBC rules and policies in a fair and equitable manner
- Ability to motivate youth and manage behavior problems in a trauma informed manner
- Must be a team player, self-starter, and possess a high degree of independence
- Ability to problem solve and process through critical thinking
- Must pass the health and employment requirements set by Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
Physical Requirements/Work Environment:
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods while supervising children and monitoring program spaces.
- Ability to bend, reach, and perform light cleaning and organizing tasks.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds occasionally (e.g., moving supplies or equipment).
- Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations, including participating in safety drills and guiding children to safety.
- Ability to administer basic First Aid, which may involve kneeling or bending.
- Must meet health requirements set by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, including passing a physical exam and TB risk assessment.
The position may be financed in part through an allocation of Community Development Block Grant funds from the Department of Housing and Urban Development and the City of St. Louis' Community Development Administration.
