Program Assistant

WHO WE ARE:

West End House (WEH) is a vibrant community anchor and youth development organization rooted in Boston’s Allston neighborhood and serving young people citywide. Since 1906, we have empowered youth to succeed academically and in life—providing high-impact programs that foster learning, creativity, wellness, leadership, and economic mobility.

Our 46,000-square-foot facility offers a safe and dynamic space where young people build lasting relationships, explore their strengths, and chart their own paths to success. Programming spans seven interconnected focus areas—from academics and mental health to food security and the arts—designed to help youth thrive emotionally, socially, and academically.

With a trauma-informed approach, a deep commitment to equity, and strong community partnerships, West End House continues to evolve to meet the needs of Boston’s youth and families—ensuring every young person has the opportunity, support, and confidence to lead, create, and thrive. We are committed to advancing racial equity through our work and throughout all aspects of our organization- our youth programs, our community and family engagement, and our board and leadership. Our employees reflect and build upon our values - opportunity for all, youth first, joy, equity, and community.

THE OPPORTUNITY:

As a Program Assistant, you will deliver after-school enrichment programs in education, social recreation, and fitness for youth between the hours of 3:00 PM and 8:00 PM. You will lead daily program sessions, manage logistics, supervise volunteers, and ensure each program is engaging, well-organized, and safe. Working within established program plans and under the supervision of the Program Director, you will be responsible for consistently delivering high-quality programming and serving as a trusted, reliable presence for youth. If you enjoy working directly with youth, creating engaging programs, and supporting their growth in a fun and structured environment, this role is for you.

This is a part-time position reporting to the Program Director.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Program Delivery

• Facilitate structured activities that promote learning, teamwork, physical wellness, and positive youth development
• Execute program plans with consistency while making real-time adjustments to meet youth needs and program goals
• Set up, organize, and break down program materials and spaces to support smooth program delivery

Safety, Operations & Youth Engagement

• Maintain a safe program environment by actively supervising youth, following all safety protocols, and enforcing clear behavioral expectations
• Supervise and support volunteers during program hours, providing clear guidance and oversight
• Build strong, trusting relationships with participating youth to support engagement, attendance, and retention
• Apply trauma-informed practices by creating predictable routines, responding calmly to youth behavior, and supporting the social-emotional needs of all participants

WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR:

There are many ways to learn and grow professionally, and we know that people gain skills through a variety of experiences. We respect this when we review applications and take a broad look at the experience of each applicant. We want to get to know you and the unique strengths you will bring to work. With this in consideration, we are most likely to be interested in your candidacy if you can demonstrate most of the qualifications and experiences listed below:

• High School Diploma or equivalent (e.g., GED, experience/training)
• Demonstrated knowledge or experience in one or more of the program’s enrichment areas (education, social recreation, and/or fitness)
• Experience facilitating or independently running programs in an after-school, youth development, or similarly sized organization (strongly preferred)
• Strong communication and group management skills, with the ability to clearly direct, engage, and support a diverse group of youth
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and execute program responsibilities with minimal supervision
• Comfort maintaining structure, routines, and expectations in a dynamic after-school environment
• Commitment to youth safety and the use of trauma-informed approaches when engaging with young people

Compensation:

Hourly pay ranges from $18 to $23, based on experience, education, and language proficiency.

IMPORTANT:

This job description provides a general summary of the essential job functions typically assigned to individuals with the job title listed above. Employees are expected to perform duties assigned to them regardless of whether or not they are listed in the job description. Working hours are expected to align with youth program hours.

The West End House is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, height, weight, or marital status in employment or the provision of services.

Proficiency in a second language is a plus.