Description

Now Hiring: 

Youth Education & Enrichment Specialist - AmeriCorps

Youth Education & Enrichment Specialist (AmeriCorps Member)

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northwest Suburbs

Looking to serve as an AmeriCorps volunteer and make a meaningful difference in the lives of youth? There’s no better place to serve than Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northwest Suburbs!

Join our team for a year-long commitment to enriching the lives of youth and teens throughout the community while gaining valuable experience, developing professional skills, and making a lasting impact.

Position Summary

The Youth Education & Enrichment Specialist is responsible for developing and implementing educational and enrichment programs that promote academic success, good character and citizenship, and healthy lifestyles among Club members.

 This role focuses on creating engaging and supportive learning environments that foster curiosity, critical thinking, creativity, and a love for learning.

The Youth Education & Enrichment Specialist will serve as a positive role model while helping youth build academic skills, explore new interests, develop confidence, and recognize their potential for success in school and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, plan, and facilitate educational and enrichment programs and experiences that align with the mission and goals of Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northwest Suburbs.
• Facilitate group activities, homework help sessions, and project-based learning experiences that promote academic skills, personal development, and engagement.
• Implement strategies to increase academic engagement among youth ages 7–18, with a focus on school and Club attendance, school engagement, and expectations for academic success.
• Plan and facilitate High-Yield Learning Activities (HYLA) that are engaging, hands-on, age-appropriate, and aligned with academic standards.
• Create learning experiences that encourage curiosity, creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving, and youth voice.
• Track and monitor Club attendance and implement strategies to encourage consistent participation.
• Build positive relationships with youth members and create a supportive, inclusive environment that encourages learning and growth.
• Serve as a positive role model and encourage youth to set goals, overcome challenges, and take ownership of their learning.
• Collaborate with Club staff and other program team members to support academic success and meaningful enrichment opportunities.
• Maintain accurate records of program participation, attendance, and other required program data.
• Maintain a healthy, safe, and organized learning environment and ensure educational materials, equipment, and supplies are properly maintained.

AmeriCorps Service Opportunities

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northwest Suburbs offers multiple AmeriCorps service-hour options to meet different schedules and levels of commitment.

• 1,700-Hour Full-Time Service Position: Includes benefits, a $20,400 gross stipend, and a $7,395 education award upon successful completion of the program.
• 1,200-Hour Service Position: Includes a $13,760.69 stipend and a $5,176.50 education award upon successful completion of the program.
• 900-Hour Service Position: Includes a $10,073.58 stipend and a $3,697.50 education award upon successful completion of the program.
• 675-Hour Service Position: Includes a $7,555.17 stipend and a $2,817.14 education award upon successful completion of the program.

Stipend and education award amounts are subject to AmeriCorps program requirements and applicable program guidelines.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age at the commencement of service.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or lawful permanent resident.
• Must satisfy the National Service Criminal History Check eligibility criteria pursuant to 45 CFR 2540.202.
• Passion for working with youth and supporting their growth and development.
• Interest in athletics, recreation, fitness, or youth development.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse groups of people.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as needed.
• Ability to create a positive, inclusive, and encouraging environment for youth participants.