YMCA Student Programs

Looking to make a difference in the local community and communities around the world? Looking for an experience that will have a lasting effect on yourself and those you help? If so then becoming a program leader is gives you the chance to make the difference you want to see.

Benefits of Being a Program Leader:

• Program Leaders (PLs) get experience in leadership and program management in every aspect—from fundraising & budgeting to supervision & policy.

• Most academic departments are willing to help students incorporate their experience as a PL into an internship, field study, independent study or practicum.

• Our students are award-winning. Every year, they receive recognition from inside and outside the university setting for their service and leadership.

• Many PLs rely on the YSP professional staff as advisors for career/post-graduation counseling, writing letters of recommendation, and personal mentorship.

Expected Goals of Program Leadership

• The PL will develop leadership skills that can be applied in other academic, personal, and professional contexts.

• The PL will increase his/her knowledge of non-profit, community-building, and service work, as well as commitment to social awareness and civic engagement.

• The PL will be encouraged to conduct independent study through reading, reflection, and attendance at related workshops, speakers, and conferences.

• The program will benefit from having new and different leadership.

• The YMCA at Virginia Tech will benefit from having a diverse and talented group of student leaders.

Responsibilities of Being a Program Leader

   Program Leaders have many different responsibilities, but are especially accountable for making sure that programs run smoothly, efficiently, and with quality. Most spend 5-10 hours per week being a PL. Below is the list of responsibilities, which can and should be shared and/or delegated to co-Program Leaders & volunteers:

Tracking & Sharing of Information
 

• collect volunteer, participant and beneficiary contact information

• track hours of volunteers, Program Leaders and beneficiaries

• complete volunteer, Service-Learning, and personal evaluations

Finances
 

• maintain budget (includes making purchases, turning in receipts, etc.)

• participate in fundraisers as required by staff office

Time Commitments

• meet with staff mentor 1 - 2 times per month

• maintain 1 hour in the office per week

• attend monthly student staff meetings

• attend retreats & ongoing training opportunities

Program Cycle

• recruit & maintain volunteers

• plan & implement programs

• responsible for risk management

• train & place volunteers

• provide reflection opportunities

• recognize volunteers & recruit new Program Leaders

Mission, Quality, and Innovation
 

• exemplify the YMCAs four core values: respect, responsibility, caring, & honesty

• ensure quality in the programs provided

• be visionary about areas of improvement in your program and the overall YSP

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