Director of Civic Engagement (Association Office)

The Director will lead the development & execution of initiatives designed to strengthen the Y's role in empowering communities.
Job Description

Salary: $80,000 - $90,000 Annually

The YMCA of Greater New York is here for all New Yorkers — to empower youth, improve health, and strengthen community. Founded in 1852, today the Y serves a diverse population of more than half a million New Yorkers who learn, grow, and thrive through programs and services at our 24 branches. Community is the cornerstone of the Y. Together, we connect active, engaged New Yorkers to build stronger communities.

To help fulfill our mission, we cultivate a culture of learning, leading, and collaboration to enhance community impact. Through our talented staff and “LEAP” career framework (Leadership, Empowerment, Accountability, Personal Growth), we are committed to a people-first approach that fosters trust, inclusion, growth, and development for all. 

The YMCA of Greater New York Association Office is seeking a Director of Civic Engagement who will lead the development and execution of initiatives designed to strengthen the YMCA's role in empowering communities through active engagement in civic life. The Director will focus on fostering meaningful partnerships, facilitating events across all 24 YMCA branches, and managing programs related to voter registration and education. This position requires a dynamic and strategic leader who is committed to advancing the YMCA’s mission by promoting civic participation and educating communities on their rights and responsibilities in the democratic process.  

Benefits:
The YMCA of Greater New York offers a variety of benefits to its staff members, including retirement benefits, medical benefits, paid time off, free YMCA membership, and more! Benefit eligibility is determined by an individual’s employment status (i.e., full-time or part-time), tenure, and/or the number of hours scheduled to work. Click here for more information.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in political science, public administration, social work, or a related field, or equivalent work experience.
  • Minimum of three (3) years of experience in civic engagement, public policy, community outreach, or a related field, with a proven track record of managing partnerships and events.
  • Strong knowledge of voter registration processes, civic rights, and voter education best practices.
  • Excellent organizational and event planning skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.
  • Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders.
  • Experience working in nonprofit or community-based organizations.
  • Passion for community empowerment and promoting active citizenship.
Essential Functions

Partnership Development & Management

  • Develop and maintain relationships with local government agencies, civic organizations, nonprofits, and community leaders to foster collaboration on civic engagement initiatives.
  • Identify and secure strategic partnerships that further the mission of the YMCA and support community empowerment.  
  • Serve as the YMCA’s point of contact for civic engagement & voter education activities.  

Event Planning & Coordination

  • Plan, organize, and execute civic engagement events across all 24 YMCA branches, ensuring that events are accessible and impactful for diverse community members.  
  • Coordinate voter education workshops, community discussions, and other civic-related events.  
  • Oversee logistics, marketing, and volunteer coordination with branch representatives for events to maximize community participation.  

Voter Registration & Voter Education Programs

  • Lead and manage the YMCA’s voter registration and education efforts, ensuring that the program is inclusive and reaches underrepresented and underserved populations.  
  • Facilitate educational campaigns on the importance of voting, civic responsibilities, and understanding the electoral process.  
  • Collaborate with advocacy organizations and other partners to ensure smooth and effective voter registration activities.  

Community Outreach & Engagement

  • Develop and implement outreach strategies to raise awareness of civic engagement opportunities, including voter registration drives, education campaigns, and participation in local elections.  
  • Build relationships with branch staff to engage them in civic activities, ensuring that employees are well-informed and actively involved in community engagement initiatives. 

Evaluation & Reporting

  • Track and measure the effectiveness of civic engagement programs, including participation rates, community feedback, and overall impact.
  • Work with the Fund Development Department to share data and program needs to support funding requests.