Little SMYALs Coordinator

Position Summary:

SMYAL is seeking a highly motivated individual passionate about promoting the development and support of queer and trans youth. The Little SMYALs Coordinator, a part-time position, works with the Little SMYALs Programs Manager to design and implement all aspects of SMYAL’s programming for 6-13 year olds. This programming, based both in schools and at SMYAL’s main youth programming location, is designed for LGBTQ children to find community access resources, and gain support. This person is integral in the support and development of programs for youth to feel confident and prepared to create positive change in themselves and in the world.  

Position Responsibilities:

In Schools: (50%) 

• Supported by the Little SMYALs Programs Manager, conduct outreach to, and develop and maintain relationships for in-school programming with elementary and middle schools across DC, MD, and VA (DMV) 
• Collaborate with school staff to identify and address the needs and challenges faced by LGBTQ+ students in their community
• In collaboration with the Little SMYALs Programs Manager, develop and execute workshops and lessons for K-8 students on issues of inclusion, gender identity and expression, and anti-bullying in the classroom
• Provide direct support to LGBTQ+ and allied students in schools and offer meaningful referral services to students who are struggling with issues related to their sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression. 
• Provide ongoing supports to rainbow clubs and GSAs in elementary and middle schools across the DMV
• Create and distribute educational materials and resources for students, teachers, and families on LGBTQ+ topics and issues
• Collaborate with local schools and partners to develop, pilot, and improve curricular materials
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of school engagement strategies and activities in creating safer and inclusive environments for LGBTQ+ students.
• Collect data on LGBTQ+ student experiences in schools and use this information to inform program development and improvement. 
• Regularly report on program activities, outcomes, and impact to the organization's leadership team

Little SMYALs: (40%) 

• With Little SMYALs Manager, plan and execute year-round Little SMYALs activities both virtually and in person, including scheduling, programmatic overviews, lesson plans and curriculum creation
• Support the preparation and execution of annual summer programming 
• Act as one of the lead facilitators for Little SMYALs programming, including in person and virtual, as well as any special events and/or field trips
• Assist with registration, enrolling youth into activities, and keeping updated descriptions of activities
• Collect and help manage quantitative and qualitative data, including attendance, surveys and impact on youth and families/care providers
• Support the development of the Little SMYALs Youth Intern 
• Support Little SMYALs adult volunteers during their active engagement with the program
• Conduct outreach to youth and families/care providers, including post activity follow up with participants and families/care providers, as well as those who did not attend
• Together with the Little SMYALs Manager and Director of Youth Development and Community Engagement, assist with ongoing program evaluations, including recommending any necessary updates to ensure the success of the program
• Assist in developing and facilitating long-term planning of the Little SMYALs programming, including building community partnerships, and expanding parent/caregiver supports

Other Duties:
(10%) 

• Maintain a knowledge of best practices when working with school age youth and adolescents, queer and trans youth, and youth of color 
• Represent SMYAL at community events and trainings, as needed, to recruit prospective participants, volunteers, and future stakeholders
• All other relevant duties as assigned

Position Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience in youth work
• 1-2 years of experience in working with school age youth and adolescents required; experience in working with Queer and Trans youth and youth of color, and knowledge of youth development framework highly desired
• Experience in facilitating interactive trainings for youth and adults desired
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Must be self-motivated and able to work independently
• Must be able to work regular evenings and weekends
• Must be a strong team player with experience in working collaboratively with other staff, volunteers, youth leaders, and external stakeholders
• Must be sensitive to issues of diversity, including race, class, gender, sexual orientation, and gender identity
• Queer and Trans individuals, women, and people of color are strongly encouraged to apply
  

To Apply:

Resumes will be reviewed as they are received. No phone calls, please. Hourly position with excellent benefits, which include an EAP, vacation and sick time. This position is based in Washington, DC.

Don't meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. SMYAL believes in justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion, as well as bringing your authentic self to the workplace. So if you are excited about this position but your past experiences do not align perfectly with every qualification, we encourage you to apply anyways! You may be just the right person for this or other positions.

About SMYAL:

SMYAL supports and empowers lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth in the Washington, DC metropolitan region. Through youth leadership, SMYAL creates opportunities for LGBTQ youth to build self-confidence, develop critical life skills, and engage their peers and community through service and advocacy. Committed to social change, SMYAL builds, sustains and advocates for programs, policies and services that LGBTQ youth need as they grow into adulthood.

SMYAL is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibility, physical or mental handicap, or political affiliation. SMYAL is committed to accessibility and providing reasonable accommodations.