Program Coordinator for Power Up

POSITION SUMMARY:

Power Up Youth and Families is a pioneering fitness and nutrition initiative by the Merrimack Valley YMCA aimed at empowering Lawrence and Methuen youth and families to lead healthier lives. This program combines evidence-based fitness practices, technology, and community engagement through fun, interactive 12-week modules throughout the year. The Program Coordinator will oversee the implementation, coordination, and growth of this initiative. Working closely with community partners, including Merrimack College, and local schools, the Coordinator will ensure the program’s success in promoting family fitness and inspiring lasting lifestyle changes.

This role is funded by a grant and is dependent on the availability and renewal of that funding. All work performed in this position must meet the requirements, deliverables, and timelines set forth in the grant award.

OUR CULTURE: 
Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day.  We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you. All employees are mandated reporters and will adhere to the requirements outlined in the Child Abuse Prevention Policy and Procedures. Per our commitment to a safe environment and youth protection, you must attend required CAP and Safety/Risk Management Trainings each year

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

The Program Coordinator is directly responsible for:

1. Program Implementation: Lead the execution of 12-week modules, ensuring alignment with program objectives and curriculum standards.
2. Community Engagement: Foster relationships with stakeholders, including youth, families, schools, and partner organizations, to enhance program participation and community impact.
3. Curriculum Development: Collaborate with Merrimack College’s Health Science program to develop age-appropriate fitness and nutrition lessons.
4. Participant Support: Provide guidance and support to program participants, including youth, families, and collegiate fellows, ensuring a positive and enriching experience.
5. Evaluation and Reporting: Implement evaluation measures to assess program effectiveness and impact, reporting outcomes to stakeholders and funding bodies.
6. Staff and Volunteer Management: Recruit, train, and supervise program staff and volunteers, ensuring adherence to program goals and safety protocols.
7. Budget Oversight: Manage program finances, including budgeting, expenditure tracking, and grant compliance.
8. Attendance is mandatory for all trainings and meetings required by management team. Perform any and all other functions necessary to support the smooth and efficient operation and overall success of the Y, including manager on duty and other assigned obligations.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Nutrition, Exercise Science, or a related field.
• Experience in program management, preferably in youth or community health programs.
• Strong understanding of fitness and nutrition principles, with a focus on evidence-based practices.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and independently manage multiple  priorities.
• Passion for promoting health equity and empowering youth and families to adopt healthier lifestyles.
• CPR, First Aid, and AED certification required (or willingness to obtain within 60 days).
• Multilingual a plus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Must have the physical ability to participate in sports and supervise active settings.
• Frequently required to stand, walk, bend, stoop, reach, and lift up to 50 lbs.
• Must be comfortable working in a dynamic indoor/outdoor environment and navigating gym and field settings.
• Must be able to use a computer, phone, and related systems for communication and recordkeeping.