Youth and Family Director

Overview

This North Kansas City Y is looking for a mission driven Youth & Family Director that will support the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.  The Youth & Family Director leads all youth development and family engagement programs at the North Kansas City YMCA, with accountability for program growth, participation, revenue, quality, and overall community impact across Kids Zone, enrichment programs, teen programs, family programs, birthday parties, and special events.

This role serves as a key member of the center leadership team, partnering closely with the Executive Director, Membership Director, Healthy Living Director, and association Youth Development Services to ensure alignment, innovation, and excellence. As both a strategic leader and hands-on operator, the Youth & Family Director is responsible for program performance, staff leadership, safety, and financial results.

The community surrounding the Y is part of a dynamic and evolving area of North Kansas City known for its creative energy, industrial character, and strong sense of connection. Blending revitalized spaces with local businesses, arts, and gathering places, the neighborhood reflects a vibrant, people-centered environment. 

At the YMCA, you’ll have the opportunity to make a difference every day by creating an inclusive, welcoming, and developmentally appropriate experiences that support youth growth, strengthen families, and reflect YMCA values.

Hiring Range:  $50,000 - $53,000

Benefits Include:

• Comprehensive package, including health insurance and retirement.
• Paid time off to support work-life balance.
• Free YMCA household membership.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.

OUR CULTURE:  The YMCA of Greater Kansas City’s mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. It’s who we are, who we aspire to be and how we show up every day. We are cause-driven. We don’t just show up, we show up with purpose. 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.

Responsibilities

Program Growth, Participation & Revenue

• Lead all youth and family program strategies including Kids Zone, enrichment programs, teen programs, family engagement, birthday parties, and special events. 
• Own youth and family participation, enrollment, and revenue targets.
• Design, plan, and execute a diverse schedule of programs and experiences for youth and families.
• Develop and grow birthday party offerings as a key family engagement and revenue opportunity.
• Partner with Membership Director to convert members into active program participants and convert participants into members.
• Partner with Marketing & Communications to promote programs and drive awareness.
• Analyze enrollment, utilization, and retention trends to inform strategy.

Youth Development & Family Engagement

• Create relationship-based programs that move participants from casual connection to committed engagement.
• Build inclusive, welcoming, and developmentally impactful experiences for youth and families.
• Champion best practices in youth development, social-emotional learning, and family engagement.
• Expand access through community partnerships and outreach.

Program Quality, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure a safe, fun, and well-controlled environment for all participants.
• Maintain high standards for program quality, instruction, and curriculum delivery.
• Oversee Kids Zone operations, curriculum, staffing, and quality audits.
• Ensure birthday parties and family events deliver exceptional guest experiences.
• Ensure compliance with YMCA, insurance, and risk management requirements.
• Partner with Safety & Risk Management on incident reporting, audits, and prevention.

Team Leadership & Development

• Recruit, hire, onboard, train, and develop youth and family associates and volunteers.
• Create clear expectations, accountability, and performance standards.
• Conduct regular department meetings, training, and in-service development.
• Lead performance reviews, coaching, and corrective action when needed.
• Create staff schedules and ensure appropriate coverage and ratios.  Cover shifts as needed. 

Operations & Financial Management

• Own and manage department budgets, labor, and expenses in alignment with financial goals.
• Ensure accurate program registration, reporting, and financial management.
• Manage purchasing, supplies, and inventory.
• Support volunteer development, community development, and fund development efforts.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Serve as a key member of the center leadership team.
• Partner closely with the Executive Director on center strategy, budgeting, and performance.
• Work in close collaboration with Youth Development Services on association standards and best practices for youth. 
• Partner with Center and Association teams to drive growth, ensure program consistency, and deliver a high-quality member and family experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree preferred or equivalent experience
• 3–5+ years of leadership experience in youth development or related field
• Proven success growing programs and leading teams
• Strong people leadership and development skills
• Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions and perceptions.
• Operational and financial management experience
• Ability to make sound decisions in a fast-paced environment
• Able to exercise high levels of discretion and confidentiality.
• Detail oriented with good organizational skills, and be multi-task proficient.
• Strong computer skills with the ability to adapt to new software.
• Passion for youth development, families, and YMCA mission