Program Manager, Youth Services

Location

Location:

Chicago, IL

Work Setting: 100% Onsite (In-Person)

Reports To:

Director of EHS and Youth Services

Salary Range: $60,000-$65,000 annually

Founded in 1971, Centers for New Horizons is a mission-driven nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering children, youth, and families to become self-reliant and thrive. With more than 200 employees, many of whom live in or near the communities they serve, Centers delivers high-quality programs across seven locations throughout the Bronzeville and Riverdale neighborhoods on Chicago’s South Side, reaching more than 1,000 individuals every day.

Through education, workforce development, behavioral health, housing, youth development, and supportive services, Centers is committed to strengthening communities, expanding opportunities, and creating measurable, lasting impact for the families it serves.

The Program Manager, Youth Services is responsible for the leadership, administration, coordination, and oversight of youth-focused programs that support positive youth development, academic success, workforce readiness, mentorship, and family engagement. This role ensures all programs are delivered in compliance with grant requirements, Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) standards, and applicable federal regulations.

The Program Manager serves as a strategic leader and community ambassador, overseeing program operations, supervising staff, managing grant deliverables, monitoring program performance, and fostering partnerships that strengthen outcomes for youth and families. The ideal candidate is a collaborative and mission-driven professional with strong leadership, program management, and relationship-building skills who is passionate about improving opportunities for young people across Chicago's South Side.

• Oversee the implementation and daytoday operations of multiple youth development programs.
• Design, coordinate, and execute youthcentered initiatives aligned with Centers for New Horizons' mission and strategic priorities.
• Ensure all programs meet contractual obligations, grant requirements, performance goals, and compliance standards.
• Maintain accurate program records, reporting systems, and oversight controls.
• Manage assigned program budgets and resources to maximize impact and operational effectiveness.
• Monitor program performance and recommend improvements to strengthen outcomes and service delivery.

• Ensure adherence to Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) guidelines, federal regulations, agency policies, and grant requirements.
• Conduct regular quality assurance reviews and monitor program effectiveness.
• Track, analyze, and report performance measures, outcomes, and program benchmarks.
• Prepare and submit required reports, documentation, and data to funding agencies and stakeholders.
• Identify opportunities for continuous quality improvement and implement corrective action plans when necessary.

• Supervise, coach, and evaluate program staff to ensure high quality service delivery.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, continuous learning, and professional growth.
• Identify staff training needs and coordinate ongoing education and development opportunities.
• Ensure staff members are fully trained and equipped to perform their responsibilities effectively.
• Lead internal communication efforts to ensure consistency, clarity, and alignment across program teams.

• Develop and facilitate workshops, trainings, mentorship activities, and youth engagement initiatives.
• Support youth participants in navigating educational, career, and workforce development opportunities.
• Develop and coordinate seasonal training plans and professional development opportunities for youth.
• Manage a caseload in accordance with grant and program requirements.
• Provide trauma informed, culturally responsive services that support participant success.
• Assist youth and families with accessing community resources, educational supports, and supportive services.
• Educate pregnant…