Program Director, Children's Initiative

at  Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County

POSITION SUMMARY:

The CI Program Director will provide strategic leadership for the Children’s Initiative and Community Schools Partnerships within the Franklin McKinley School District, addressing the needs from cradle to grandparent. This role is integral in implementing and aligning key initiatives such as the agency-wide long-range plan, Footsteps, and the City of San Jose Children and Youth Services Master Plan. The Director will also support programs aimed at enhancing the well-being of children, youth, and families through a family-centered, community change approach.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Public Administration, Education, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in a supervisory role within a nonprofit or community service organization.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Proven experience in program development, implementation, and evaluation.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in data management and reporting.
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and the mission of moving families out of poverty.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to work at a desk for extended periods of time.
• Ability to use a computer workstation.
• Ability to travel/drive on site and off site within Santa Clara County. Occasional out-of-area travel.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.

OTHER QUALIFICATIONS:

• Criminal background check via livescan fingerprint.
• Must have TB test performed and submit results.
• Provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination and booster status.
• Automobile, valid driver’s license and auto insurance per agency policy; or have access to reliable transportation

HOURS AND OTHER CONDITIONS:

• Standard office hours are Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m to 5:00 p.m.
• This is a full-time, exempt position. Some evenings, weekends, and/or holiday hours may be needed, as appropriate, to coordinate and provide services and activities for families during non-traditional hours.
  This position description intends to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. It is not intended to include all duties and responsibilities. The order in which duties and responsibilities are listed is not significant. Because of a need to remain responsive to the needs of our clients and our Agency’s operations, responsibilities may be modified at any time.
  Catholic Charities is a non-profit, non-discriminatory service organization and employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation or disability. Persons seeking employment are entitled to freedom from harassment and retaliation and reasonable accommodation for qualified disabilities.

Program Management and Implementation

• Oversee the strategic management and daily operations of the Children’s Initiative.
• Ensure program alignment with the Footsteps, City of San Jose Children and Youth Services Master Plan, and related initiatives.
• Lead the development, implementation, and evaluation of innovative programs designed to empower families, break the cycle of poverty, and provide comprehensive support and resources for children and their caregivers.
• Coordinate with internal and external partners, including but not limited to Franklin McKinley School District and other community stakeholders, to enhance an integrated service delivery model.
• Facilitate cross-functional team collaboration within the agency to ensure cohesive program delivery and maximize community impact.
• Family-Centered Approach: Lead initiatives focused on empowering families to co-design and achieve their goals for self-sufficiency, fostering a partnership-based approach rooted in humility and respect.
• Trauma-Informed Care: Implement a trauma-informed framework to support children and families affected by trauma, ensuring social and emotional stabilization as a foundation for long-term economic recovery.

Staff Supervision and Development

• Supervise, mentor, and support staff, including overseeing hiring and professional development.
• Conduct regular staff meetings and performance evaluations, providing constructive feedback and support.
• Integrate services with internal programs, including parish engagement work at Our Lady of Refuge and the ACE department, to amplify family voice and access.

Community Engagement and Advocacy

• Foster and maintain strong relationships with community stakeholders, including families, schools, local agencies, and partners.
• Advocate for the needs and interests of families and children served by the centers.
• Organize and lead community events, workshops, and outreach activities.
• Establish and nurture supportive community spaces that promote trust, inclusivity, and strong social networks essential for sustained progress out of poverty.

Community Integration

• Develop and oversee a coordinated approach to service delivery, utilizing service guides, volunteers, promotoras, and peer accompaniment teams to streamline access and improve outcomes for families.
• Facilitate Steering Committee meetings to guide program direction and ensure alignment with organizational goals.

Policy Advocacy

• Drive data-driven advocacy efforts to influence policy changes that enhance access to essential services and support systems, aiming to break the cycle of generational poverty through systemic reform.

Community Empowerment

• Facilitate community organizing and leadership development among families, fostering civic engagement and self-efficacy to transform communities and sustain family well-being.

Resource Management

• Lead the strategic management of budgets, grants, and diverse funding sources to optimize resource allocation and financial sustainability.
• Ensure compliance with organizational policies, grant requirements, and relevant regulations.
• Identify and pursue new grant opportunities to expand funding and support program initiatives.
• Oversee the strategic maintenance and enhancement of facilities and resources across all centers.

Data Collection and Reporting

• Provide leadership in the strategic collection, analysis, and reporting of data to evaluate program effectiveness and outcomes.
• Manage and mentor teams responsible for data collection and reporting.
• Use data-driven insights intentionally to drive decision-making, program enhancements, and strategic planning initiatives.

Strategic Planning

• Contribute to the development of long-term strategies to enhance service delivery.
• Stay informed about trends and best practices in family resource services and poverty alleviation.
• Assist in developing new initiatives and partnerships to further organizational goals.
• Implement a trauma-informed framework to support children and families affected by trauma, ensuring social and emotional stabilization as a foundation for long-term economic recovery.