Place-Based Programs Specialist

About the Role Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rhode Island (BBBSRI) is seeking an energetic, youth-centered, and highly organized Site and Specialty Programs Coordinator to support and facilitate school and site-based mentoring programs across Rhode Island. We're looking for an energetic, youth-centered, and highly organized Site and Specialty Programs Coordinator to facilitate and support school- and site-based mentoring programs across Rhode Island. This role is a strong fit for someone who genuinely enjoys working with young people, building partnerships with schools and community organizations, and designing programming that is engaging and developmentally sound. You'll help carry day-to-day program implementation while creating safe, structured spaces where youth grow socially, emotionally, and academically. No two days look the same. One day you might facilitate a group session; the next, coordinate volunteers at a school site or plan enrichment activities. The ideal candidate is adaptable, relationship-driven, organized, and passionate about youth development. Program Coordination & Facilitation Facilitate site-based mentoring sessions, group activities, workshops, and enrichment programming Build positive relationships with youth, mentors, caregivers, school staff, and community partners Support recruitment, enrollment, scheduling, and engagement efforts for youth and volunteers Create and implement youth-centered curriculum, activities, and program plans aligned with program goals Ensure programming is engaging, inclusive, structured, and developmentally appropriate Monitor attendance, participation, and overall program quality across sites Support mentorship activities focused on leadership development, social-emotional learning, academics, career readiness, STEM, arts, and community engagement Youth Engagement & Support Create welcoming, safe, and supportive environments for youth participants Provide ongoing Match Support through regular communication, relationship monitoring, problem-solving, and guidance to help ensure safe, healthy, and consistent mentoring relationships Encourage positive peer interaction, teamwork, communication, and emotional growth Help identify youth needs and communicate concerns appropriately with leadership and program staff Maintain appropriate boundaries, professionalism, and youth safety standards at all times Serve as a positive role model and mentor presence for participating youth Organization & Communication Maintain accurate records, attendance, notes, and program documentation Coordinate logistics, schedules, materials, and communication for program sessions and events Collaborate closely with the Program Team to ensure consistency and high-quality implementation Assist with special events, community engagement opportunities, and program outings as needed Communicate effectively and professionally with schools, families, volunteers, and community partners Adaptability & Problem-Solving Respond calmly and effectively to changing schedules, site needs, and youth dynamics Troubleshoot challenges related to participation, engagement, transportation, or logistics Learn quickly and incorporate feedback to strengthen program delivery and youth outcomes Support multiple program sites and initiatives simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail Ideal Candidate is

Someone Who:

Enjoys working directly with youth and building authentic relationships Is engaging, energetic, patient, and approachable Can facilitate groups and manage youth dynamics confidently and professionally Is organized and able to balance multiple priorities and schedules Brings creativity and enthusiasm to programming and curriculum development Is dependable, flexible, and solution-oriented Understands the importance of professionalism, communication, and youth safety Is passionate about mentorship, youth development, and community impact Required Qualifications 2-5 years of experience working with youth, schools, mentoring programs, camps, afterschool programs, or community-based programming Experience facilitating youth groups, workshops, or enrichment activities Strong communication and relationship-building skills Demonstrated ability to manage multiple responsibilities and changing priorities Strong organizational and documentation skills Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and technology platforms Reliable transportation and ability to travel to program sites throughout Rhode Island Proven professionalism, reliability, and ability to work collaboratively Preferred Qualifications Experience creating curriculum, lesson plans, or youth programming Experience in mentoring, nonprofit, education, behavioral health, or youth-serving organizations Bilingual or multilingual abilities are a plus Experience working with diverse youth populations and communities Important to Know This role requires flexibility and comfort working in school and community settings Some evening programming and occasional weekend events is required Relationship-building, communication, and professionalism are essential Youth safety and confidentiality are non-negotiable Application Process Please submit the following to HR@Bigsri.

org with the subject:

Site-Based Program Coordinator Application Resume A brief cover letter or paragraph answering the following: Why are you interested in working with youth through mentoring and site-based programming? Describe a time you facilitated a group activity, workshop, or youth program. What made it successful? Do you build relationships and engagement with youth who may initially be hesitant to participate? What strengths would you bring to a fast-paced, youth-centered program environment?

Optional:

Include a written letter of recommendation. Applications that do not include these responses will not be considered.

Pay:

$49,000.00 - $52,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee assistance program Employee discount Flexible schedule Flexible spending account Health insurance Health savings account Paid time off Parental leave Professional development assistance Retirement plan Tuition reimbursement Vision insurance

Experience:

working with youth, schools, mentoring programs: 2 years (Required)

Work Location:

In person