Program Manager- On the Rise in Oak Park, Illinois at Oak Park Township

Oak Park Township

JOB DESCRIPTION

CLASS. TITLE: Program Manager FLSA: Full-Time

DEPARTMENT: Youth and Family Services DATE: 06/2026

DIVISION: Town

REPORTS TO: Youth and Family Services Assistant Director

Job Summary: The Program Manager for Girls & Boys on the Rise leads a youth development program focused on empowering minority girls and boys through mentorship, education, leadership development, and social-emotional support. This position oversees program operations, staff supervision, facilitation, community partnerships, and program evaluation to ensure positive outcomes for youth and families.

The Program Manager serves as an advocate for youth by fostering confidence, academic achievement, leadership, and personal growth while building strong relationships with schools, families, and the Oak Park and River Forest communities.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Provide leadership, supervision, and support to Girls & Boys on the Rise staff, interns, contractors, and volunteers.
• Facilitate and oversee youth groups while ensuring programming aligns with established curriculum, program goals, and participant needs.
• Build positive relationships with youth, families, schools, and community partners to support student success and engagement.
• Organize parent engagement activities, workshops, and community outreach initiatives.
• Serve as an advocate for minority youth by promoting leadership, personal growth, and access to supportive resources.
• Monitor and evaluate program effectiveness and implement improvements to enhance participant outcomes.
• Ensure compliance with organizational policies, grant requirements, and documentation standards.
• Assist with program budgeting, supply ordering, and administrative responsibilities.
• Maintain ongoing communication with parents, school personnel, and community stakeholders.
• Participate in supervision, team meetings, outreach efforts, and other departmental initiatives as assigned.

Job Type: Full-time

Minimal Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in social work, Counseling, Psychology, Sociology, Education, Behavioral Sciences, or a related field required; master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in youth development, program management, mentoring, counseling, or community-based programming.
• Demonstrated experience working with Black and Brown youth, families, schools, and diverse communities.
• Experience facilitating groups, building community partnerships, and leading youth-centered programming preferred.
• Strong understanding of culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and equity-centered practices.

Education:

• Master’s degree preferred
• OR a bachelor’s degree plus significant youth development/program management experience

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Knowledge of:

• Group facilitation and youth development practices
• Conflict resolution and crisis management
• Ethical standards and professional conduct when working with youth and families

Skills In:

• Leadership, organization, and time management
• Written and verbal communication
• Group facilitation and relationship-building
• Working collaboratively with youth, families, schools, and community partners
• Maintaining professionalism, adaptability, and cultural competency in diverse environments

Ability To:

• Maintain accurate records and documentation
• Build positive relationships with youth and families
• Remain calm and professional in stressful or crisis situations
• Work independently while managing multiple responsibilities effectively

Physical Abilities:

• Proficient in Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and Zoom
• Ability to sit, read, write, speak, and use a computer for extended periods
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 10 pounds
• Must possess a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and the ability to travel between school and community sites within Oak Park and River Forest during standard business hours