Teen Program Director Jobs in Bolingbrook, IL (NOW HIRING)

Safe Spaces Program Coordinator (Temporary Position September 2026-December 2026) 

ReportsTo:  Director of Mental Health and Youth Programs 

MISSION: 

Gads Hill Center, a social service organization established in 1898, creates opportunities for children and their families to build a better life through education, access to resources, and community engagement. 

At Gads Hill Center we envision a community in which all children and youth benefit from healthy, financially stable households that support their learning and growth. We invest in the potential of children, youth, and families through early childhood education, positive youth development, mental health and family support. Ultimately, Gads Hill Center supports building a community where all families can help their children have access to quality education in order to succeed in school and life. 

JOB SUMMARY: 

The Program Coordinator is responsible for the planning, implementation, and oversight of the My Chi. My Future. Safe Spaces program at Gads Hill Center, serving youth in the North Lawndale community. This role leads youth workforce development activities and oversees the planning and execution of youth-driven community events that provide safe, engaging spaces for teens and young adults. The Program Coordinator ensures that programming is culturally responsive and community-informed, centering youth voice, leadership, and positive youth development while addressing the unique strengths and needs of youth in North Lawndale. 

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DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Program Management 

1. Supervise and mentor employed youth participants (ages 16–24) from the North Lawndale community, supporting their roles as paid program participants while fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment 

1. Coordinate and implement all program activities, ensuring alignment with program goals and performance measures 

1. Lead the planning and execution of youth-driven events in North Lawndale, including logistics, vendor coordination, outreach support, and day-of-event management 

1. Facilitate youth workforce development by supporting skill-building in communication, teamwork, leadership, and event planning 

1. Guide youth participants in developing and implementing event ideas that reflect the interests and experiences of their peers and community 

1. Build and maintain program schedules, track participant attendance and engagement, and support youth in completing required program hours 

1. Collaborate with the Resource Coordinator and other staff to support recruitment and retention of youth participants within North Lawndale 

1. Support outreach efforts by assisting youth in peer-to-peer recruitment, social media engagement, and community-based promotion within local schools, community spaces, and partner organizations 

1. Collect and enter program data, including attendance and participant feedback, in alignment with organizational and funder requirements 

1. Ensure that all program deliverables are met according to funder requirements 

1. Ensure compliance with safety protocols, including supervision, incident reporting, and emergency procedures 

1. Coordinate with community partners in North Lawndale to secure event space, resources, and wraparound supports for youth participants 

In addition to the responsibilities listed above, all GHC employees are responsible for the following: 

1. Participating in supervision meetings and workshops within the agency and outside. 

1. Participating in civic engagement activities that advance the mission of Gads Hill Center. 

1. Advancing parent leadership development. 

1. Performing other duties as assigned. 

QUALIFICATIONS: 

1. Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in youth development, education, social services, or a related field 

1. Minimum of 2–3 years of experience working directly with youth, particularly teens and young adults in community-based settings 

1. Ability to train, lead, and energize a youth team to achieve program goals. 

1. Demonstrated experience planning and executing events, including logistics coordination and community engagement 

1. Strong understanding of trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and youth-centered practices, particularly in historically under-resourced communities 

1. Familiarity with the North Lawndale community or surrounding communities is required 

1. Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills 

1. Must be able to pass a criminal record and child abuse/neglect registry check.  

1. Active Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and First Aid Certification 

1. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment 

1. Ability to work a flexible schedule including evenings and weekends when young people and their families are most available 

BENEFITS: 

• Competitive Salaries 

• Generous Paid Time Off 

• 403B Plan (Up to 5% match following 2 years of employment) 

POSITION DETAILS: 

Hourly Wage: $25/Hour 

Schedule: Temporary Part-time 

Status: Hourly 

Location: North Lawndale/Pilsen (Lower West Side) 

APPLICATION DIRECTIONS: 

To apply, please visit our careers page at www.gadshillcenter.org/careers