STRONG Program Coordinator at Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara GIGSB – Santa Barbara, California

Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara is seeking a passionate and knowledgeable STRONG Program Coordinator to lead empowering, evidence-based programming that supports the physical and mental well-being of girls in elementary school.

STRONG is Girls Inc.'s health and wellness initiative that promotes positive habits, physical activity, body positivity, self-care, and mental health awareness. Through engaging activities, the program fosters healthy decision-making, confidence, and resilience in a girl-centered, supportive environment.

Under the guidance of the Elementary Programs Manager and Director of Programs, the Coordinator will design and facilitate developmentally appropriate wellness experiences that encourage girls to value their bodies, care for their mental health, build healthy relationships, and thrive physically, emotionally, and socially.

The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in youth wellness and education, a love for fitness and community health, and an enthusiasm for inspiring girls to be strong, healthy, and confident in every aspect of their lives.

This position supports both on-campus and school-based programs across Santa Barbara and Goleta, and plays a key role in promoting equitable access to health and wellness education.

Key Responsibilities:

Program Design & Facilitation

• Develop and lead interactive wellness curricula incorporating fitness, sports, mindfulness, nutrition education, and social-emotional learning.
• Tailor programming to meet the developmental stages and interests of girls in grades 1–6, with flexibility for TK/K as needed.
• Promote messages of self-care, healthy relationships, emotional regulation, and body positivity.

Program Implementation & Evaluation

• Facilitate daily enrichment blocks and club rotations focused on wellness and healthy living.
• Collaborate with program staff and volunteers to ensure consistent and impactful delivery of curriculum.
• Maintain and organize instructional supplies and equipment for physical activities and health education.

Family & Community Engagement

• In collaboration with the Elementary Programs Manager, plan and implement at least two annual Family Wellness Nights to showcase activities and build family engagement around health and wellness.
• Support outreach workshops and fitness-based mini-camps during school breaks.
• Serve as a visible, positive adult mentor and role model in the lives of girls.

Team & Site Collaboration

• Work closely with site teams and Girls Inc. staff to ensure coordinated, mission-aligned programming.
• Participate in all required trainings, staff meetings, and professional development opportunities.
• Support site-wide events and organizational initiatives as needed, including occasional evening and weekend responsibilities.

Qualifications Required:

• 18 years of age or older
• Minimum 2 years of experience in youth development, education, theater, creative arts education, advocacy, or leadership programming
• 12 college level units in early childhood education or any of the following substitutes: sociology, psychology, art, music, dance, drama, recreation, education
• Experience creating and facilitating curriculum that is inclusive, youth-driven, and culturally responsive
• Strong group facilitation, classroom management, and youth mentorship skills
• Passion for creative expression and community engagement
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and time management skills
• Clean criminal record
• Ability to pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening
• Proof of vaccination per licensing requirements (Pertussis, Measles, TB)
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)

Qualifications Preferred:

• Bachelor’s degree in Health Education, Kinesiology, Social Work, Child Development, Education or a related field
• Bilingual (English/Spanish)
• Valid California Driver’s License and willingness to pursue Class B license with passenger endorsement (transportation training and support provided)

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:

• Indoor and outdoor youth program environment with physical activity required daily.
• Ability to lead physical activities and lift/move objects up to 20 lbs.
• May involve extended periods of movement and active engagement with participants.

Benefits: Health, dental, vision, life, 403(b) retirement plan, vacation, and sick time. Waived program fees, professional development, and a mission-driven team culture.