The Community Health Director leads YMCA health initiatives, expands EBHIs, builds partnerships, & improves outcomes across service areas.
Job Description
The Community Health Director provides strategic leadership, development, and oversight of the YMCA’s community-integrated health initiatives. This role is responsible for advancing the YMCA’s position as a leading community-based health partner by expanding evidence-based health interventions (EBHIs), strengthening healthcare and corporate partnerships, and improving health outcomes across the service area.
The Director leads and grows programs such as the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP), Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring, LiveSTRONG at the YMCA, Parkinson’s programs, and Exercise is Medicine. This position drives program and community impact while supervising staff and aligning efforts with YMCA of the USA standards and statewide initiatives.
Qualifications
- Minimum age of 21
- Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Exercise Science, Health Promotion, or related field (Master’s preferred)
- 5+ years of experience in community health, wellness programming, or related field
- 2+ years of leadership or supervisory experience
- YMCA experience preferred
- National personal training certification (ACE, ACSM, NASM, NSCA, etc.) required
- Strong knowledge of community-integrated health and evidence-based programs
- Experience with grants, budgeting, and program evaluation
- CPR, First Aid, and AED certification (or within 30 days of hire)
- Strong communication, leadership, and relationship-building skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and data tracking systems
Essential Functions
Leadership & Strategy
- Lead the strategic vision and growth of community health and integrated health initiatives.
- Position the YMCA as a trusted partner within the healthcare continuum.
- Collaborate with association leadership and the SC Alliance of YMCAs to expand EBHI impact statewide.
- Ensure alignment with YMCA of the USA standards and best practices.
Program Development & Oversight
- Oversee all evidence-based health programs including Parkinson’s, DPP, LiveSTRONG, Blood Pressure Self Monitoring, and other chronic disease prevention initiatives.
- Ensure high-quality program delivery, participant outcomes, and fidelity to national models.
- Monitor program performance through data tracking, reporting, and continuous improvement.
- Maintain certifications to lead, direct and/or teach classes as needed
Partnership Development
- Build and maintain strong referral relationships with healthcare providers, insurers, and community organizations.
- Develop and expand corporate wellness partnerships in collaboration with Membership.
- Serve as a community spokesperson and represent the YMCA in health-related initiatives and events.
Financial Management & Sustainability
- Develop, manage, and monitor program budgets to ensure financial sustainability.
- Lead grant writing, reporting, and compliance for health-related funding opportunities.
- Cultivate payer relationships and reimbursement opportunities for EBHIs.
- Staff Leadership & Development
- Hire, train, supervise, and evaluate Community Health staff and instructors.
- Provide leadership, coaching, and professional development to ensure a high-performing team.
- Foster a collaborative and mission-driven work environment.
Compliance & Risk Management
- Serve as HIPAA Compliance Officer, ensuring adherence to all regulations and policies.
- Ensure compliance with YMCA risk management and Praesidium standards.
- Maintain accurate records and timely reporting across all programs.
Community Engagement
- Lead community outreach efforts including health fairs, workshops, and speaking engagements.
- Champion healthy living initiatives across all YMCA departments, including youth development programs.
- Support association-wide events that enhance community awareness and engagement.
Additional Responsibilities
- Perform other duties as assigned to support the mission and impact of the Foothills Area YMCA.