Youth Programming & Engagement Manager
Location: Encino, CA 91436
Position: Youth Programming & Engagement Manager
Reports to: Assistant Executive Director
Supervises: Part-time Youth Coordinators, Specialists and Vendors
Hours: Full-time, Exempt; Many evenings and weekends required
Valley Beth Shalom is a vibrant and inclusive Jewish community in Los Angeles with more than 1,200 families and 75 years of creating meaningful Jewish connections for our members. We are dedicated to fostering spiritual growth, learning, and a sense of belonging. We are committed to engaging our youth through meaningful and dynamic programming that nurtures their Jewish identity and connection to our community.
Position Summary
The Youth Programming & Engagement Manager is a dynamic leader and connector responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing all youth programs from kindergarten through high school. This role involves creating engaging educational, social, and spiritual experiences that inspire a lifelong connection to Judaism and our synagogue community.
Key Responsibilities
• Program Development and Implementation: Design and execute innovative programs and activities for children and teens, including youth groups, holiday celebrations, retreats, and social action projects, year round.
• Leadership and Mentorship: Recruit, train, and supervise a team of educators, youth advisors, and volunteers. Provide mentorship and leadership development opportunities for youth leaders. Serve as a role model, mentor, and guide for students both secularly and Jewishly, including participation in Shabbat morning activities, chesed opportunities, etc.
• Community Building: Foster a warm, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all youth and their families. Build strong relationships with parents, students, and community members. Focus on recruitment, increasing membership, participation and engagement in all youth programs.
• Educational Oversight: Collaborate with clergy and educational staff to develop comprehensive experiential Jewish education opportunities that integrate Jewish values, traditions, and contemporary issues.
• Event Coordination: Plan and organize special events, such as Shabbat services, High Holiday programming, summer camps, youth events, and holiday fundraisers.
Communication: Manage and maintain regular communication with parents, students, and the broader community through newsletters, social media, and other channels.
• Budget Management: Develop and manage the youth engagement budget, ensuring responsible use of resources and seeking opportunities for funding and grants.
• Collaboration: Work closely with synagogue staff, clergy, and lay leaders to align youth programs with the overall mission and vision of the synagogue. Create and maintain personal relationships with VBS youth from Day School, Hebrew School, and post b’nai mitzvah teens and new families, including non-members.
Qualifications
• Education: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience required.
• Experience: Minimum of 2 years of leadership experience in youth engagement, Jewish education, Jewish camping or a related field.
Skills:
• Strong knowledge of Jewish traditions, values, and practices.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to inspire and connect with youth of all ages.
• Proficiency in program development and event planning.
• Experience with budget management and fundraising is preferred, but not required.
Personal Attributes:
• Passionate about Jewish education and youth engagement.
• Creative, energetic, affable and approachable.
• A team player with a collaborative mindset.
• Committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse community.