High School Program Facilitator
- Reports To: Founder & CEO
- Contract Type: Independent Contractor
- Compensation: $65 per IGNITE session (up to $520/month, based on number of sessions)
- Time Commitment: 10 hours per week (8 hours for IGNITE facilitation; 2 hours for program planning)
- Schedule: Tuesdays & Wednesdays, 2:30 PM – 6:30 PM (includes setup and cleanup); plus 2 hours of program planning during the Middle School Program Worker’s scheduled hours
- Contract Term: November 2025 – May 2025
- Location: Flossmoor Community Church, 2218 Hutchison Rd, Flossmoor, IL 60422
JOB SUMMARY
The Middle School Program Facilitator plays a key role in implementing and enhancing IGNITE, You Matter 2’s afterschool program designed to empower middle school students through learning, leadership, and life skills development. IGNITE focuses on academic accountability, social-emotional growth, and exposure to enrichment opportunities that inspire curiosity, creativity, and confidence.
The facilitator will co-develop and lead interactive lessons that help students build essential skills in areas such as STEM, financial literacy, arts, music, and life skills, while also providing homework help and mentorship. This role requires an engaging and adaptable leader who can create a fun, structured, and inclusive environment where students feel supported and motivated to learn.
The ideal candidate is energetic, student-centered, and passionate about youth development, capable of turning everyday moments into meaningful learning experiences that help students grow both academically and personally.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Program Planning (2 hours/week)
- Attend weekly planning meetings with the Middle School Program Worker.
- Collaboratively design high-energy, age-appropriate sessions that include:
- Enrichment activities in areas such as STEM, financial literacy, arts, music, and life skills.
- Team-building activities and character development.
- Homework help and academic support to encourage accountability and progress.
- Prepare lesson plans, materials, and supply lists in advance of each session.
- Ensure activities are hands-on, engaging, and support IGNITE’s goals of building leadership and life readiness.
Program Facilitation (8 hours/week)
- Facilitate two weekly IGNITE sessions (Tuesdays & Wednesdays, 3:00–6:00 PM).
- Arrive by 2:30 PM for setup and remain until 6:30 PM for cleanup and debrief.
- Lead and engage students in planned lessons and enrichment activities.
- Support student participation and reinforce behavior expectations through restorative practices.
- Provide guidance and homework assistance as needed.
- Collaborate with the Middle School Program Worker to maintain a positive, structured, and supportive learning space.
Program Collaboration & Communication
- Communicate regularly with the Middle School Program Worker and leadership regarding student progress, challenges, and resource needs.
- Participate in team meetings, trainings, and special events as requested.
Qualifications
- At least 1 year of experience working with youth, preferably middle school-aged students.
- Strong facilitation, classroom management, and engagement skills.
- Ability to design and lead creative, hands-on lessons in one or more enrichment areas (STEM, arts, life skills, etc.).
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Organized, dependable, and adaptable.
- Passionate about youth development and the mission of You Matter 2.
- Background in education, youth development, recreation, or enrichment programming.
- Experience leading or co-facilitating small group sessions or afterschool programs.
Application Requirements:
- Cover Letter
- Resume
- Names/contact information of three professional references
Organizational Background
Founded in 2014, You Matter 2 provides South Suburban youth and families with opportunities to develop leaders and engage communities through exposure to new experiences, building connections, and highlighting cultural heritage. Each year, You Matter 2 provides over 1,000 youth with holistic, out-of-school support, including afterschool and summer learning programs, and experiential learning through partnerships. The organization is in a transition period, growing to become the go-to youth and community serving organization across the Chicago Southland. Our staff is a diverse collection of passionate individuals, committed to social justice, trauma-informed care, inclusion, equity, and anti-racist ideologies, and helping youth realize their full potential.