POSTITON TITLE: Eureka! Program Leader
RESPONSIBLE TO: Eureka! Program Coordinator
TYPE: Part-Time
Organization Summary:
Girls Inc. of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey (Girls Inc.) is committed to providing opportunities to empower girls and support women by advancing their rights and opportunities through education and advocacy. Our mission is to inspire all girls and young women to be strong, smart, and bold. Reducing the barriers they face and reforming systems that impede their success is fundamental to our mission. In partnership with schools and at our Girls Inc. center, we focus on the development of the whole girl. We approach this work with an equity lens, focusing on the needs of girls from low-income communities and girls of color who face multiple intersectional challenges. The combination of long-lasting mentoring relationships, a pro-girl environment, and research-based programming equips girls to navigate gender, economic, and social barriers and grow up healthy, educated, and independent. Girls Inc. serves over 3,000 girls annually.
Position Summary: Girls Inc. Eureka! is a five-year program for 8th-12 grade girls during the academic year and summertime. During Eureka!, girls participate in exciting and compelling activities that explore the cutting-edge world of STEM through hands-on experiences in a college campus environment. In years 1 & 2, participants engage in STEM exploration and leadership development activities. In years 3-5, participants engage in more intense STEM activities, learn job readiness skills, and advance post-secondary planning initiatives. In addition, 10th through 12th graders participate in career exploration, college tours, and paid internships. With complimentary activities in sports and physical fitness, healthy living, and financial literacy, Eureka! fully fosters educational, professional, and personal development. As the program continues through the school year, cohorts of 20-25 girls stay together for personal and professional development opportunities. Girls are introduced to the requirements and resources to make higher education and future career goals attainable through the program, so they see themselves as an essential part of the future workforce.
Program Implementation
- Collaborate with the Program Coordinator and team members to ensure that participants engage in a quality, developmentally appropriate program during the summer and school year. Summer sessions are Monday through Friday, and school year sessions are two Saturdays a month.
- Work collaboratively with team members to plan and execute career exploration workshops, college tours, and other special events.
- Assist with the daily check-in/check-out process using the Program Attendance Log.
- Establish a positive rapport and create a safe, engaging learning environment for all participants. Ensure that all youth feel welcomed and engaged in the program.
- Practice conflict resolution and problem-solving that model respect for differences and is non-threatening, calm, and de-escalating in style for students during and after the instructional program.
- Collect and track program data and outcomes with guidance from Eureka! Program Coordinator.
- Practice the duties and responsibilities of a mandated reporter for suspected child abuse under current Girls Inc. policies and procedures, as required.
- Collaborate with the Eureka! Program Coordinator and team members to maintain high-quality and program safety standards that protect youths’ physical and emotional safety.
- Act in accordance with Girls Inc. policies and procedures.
Recruitment & Retention
- Plan and lead Eureka! Info sessions (virtually and in person) at local schools and community organizations for rising 8th graders and their family members.
- Participate in all aspects of the recruitment and enrollment process, including reviewing applications, interviews, and program orientation.
- Communicate regularly with parents and participants, sharing program updates, opportunities, and resources.
- Facilitate retention strategies to ensure all stakeholders are engaged in the program.
Additional Responsibilities
- Inventory enrichment and programming supply are needed, and adequate replenishment is ensured.
- Perform other duties as requested by the supervisor.
Professional Development
- Participate in Girls Inc. staff meetings, training, and conferences essential to executing job functions.
- Participate in periodic assessments of personal performance of goals and objectives.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- High professional effectiveness, collaboration, integrity, optimism, and energy levels.
- Must be available to work the following hours: September-June (10-15 hours per week) and July – 1st week of August (28 hours per week).
- Experience working with middle school and high school students.
- Must submit COVID-19 vaccination card.
- Working towards an associate’s or bachelor’s from an accredited college or university.
- Must submit Pennsylvania criminal, Pennsylvania child abuse, and FBI clearances.
Compensation: $18/hour
To apply, please send a cover letter and resume in PDF format to Niah Lombo, Eureka! Program Coordinator, at nlombo@girlsincpa-nj.org. The email’s subject line should include your full name and “Eureka Program Leader.”