Advocacy Programs Specialist

Employee Benefits:

• Competitive medical with 75% Employer-funded health insurance.
• 100% Employer-paid ancillary benefits for employee only.
• Club Membership at locations in Sarasota, Venice, North Port and Arcadia is included for dependents ages 6-18.
• 403(b) retirement plan with 2.5% employer match of eligible compensation
• 5% Employer pension contribution.
• Generous paid time off.
• Professional development opportunities with complimentary access to Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s Spillett Leadership University for online education and training

GREAT CAREERS START HERE:

Are you interested in becoming a valued member of an award-winning team of professionals who are dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of young people in our community? Apply today to the Advocacy Programs Specialist position at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties (BGCSDC).

The Advocacy Programs Specialist is responsible for facilitating curriculum and programs aimed at preparing youth to become effective advocates. The ideal candidate should have a passion for youth development, strong organizational skills, and the ability to create meaningful partnerships in the community.

Essential Duties:

• Manage and coordinate the Speak Up! Youth Advocacy Program through curriculum development, session facilitation, and intentional mentorship that empowers youth to develop advocacy skills, public speaking abilities, and effective communication strategies.
• Facilitate Advocacy 101, a series of weekly workshops that equip Club teens with the knowledge and tools to develop and execute impactful advocacy campaigns.
• Oversee The Club’s Youth Council, a youth-led initiative that plans and executes an annual project to create positive, tangible change in our community.
• Enhance and update advocacy and leadership curricula based on industry standards, trends, and current events, ensuring lesson relevance and effectiveness in preparing youth for leadership roles.
• Develop innovative recruitment strategies to promote Advocacy 101, Speak Up!, and Youth Council. Ensure inclusivity and accessibility in the recruitment process, identifying diverse target audiences and implementing effective methods to reach them.
• Coordinate logistics, including registration, travel arrangements, and accommodation for Club members to participate in the Florida House and the Florida Senate Page Programs, ensuring a successful experience for program participants.
• Establish and maintain positive relationships with community organizations, governmental advisory committees, non-profit leaders, and local businesses.
• Collect and analyze data to access the effectiveness and impact of Club programs and use evaluation findings to improve program outcomes.

Qualifications:

• Ability to develop curriculum and facilitate programs.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

Position Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree required.
• Must be 21 years of age or older.
• 3+ years of experience in teen development, leadership or a related field.
• Pass pre-employment background screening and drug test.
• Valid FL Driver’s License and be insured under the BGCSDC’s policy.
• Traveling is required.
• Occasional nights and weekends are required.