Chess Program Manager, ASAP/After School Activities Partnerships

Posted by After School Activities Partnerships (ASAP) on May 10, 2022

Through four citywide initiatives – Chess, Debate, Drama, and Scrabble – ASAP/After School Activities Partnerships helps more than 4,000 youth each year discover passions and friendships that can last a lifetime. Each year, ASAP coordinates 300 after school and summer enrichment programs in partnership with more than 200 schools, libraries, recreation centers, and community-based organizations throughout Philadelphia. ASAP’s program model can be adapted to a wide range of out-of-school time settings to help teachers, informal educators, and volunteers foster the personal growth and sense of belonging for participating youth.

The Chess Program Manager is primarily responsible for the ASAP Chess program, a citywide initiative that develops the problem-solving and strategic thinking skills of thousands of youth each year. For the past five decades, Philadelphia has been a powerhouse in the world of scholastic chess. ASAP Chess is proud to continue that tradition by supporting chess clubs in schools, libraries, and recreation centers throughout the city. Through programs like the Philadelphia Scholastic Chess League, the Checkmate Violence Chess Marathon, and Philly Girls Play Chess, ASAP invites students to showcase their brilliance and celebrate their love for the game amongst a community of like-minded peers.

In managing this program, the Chess Program Manager works with partners in Philadelphia’s education and Out-of-School Time (OST) communities to provide safe and enriching after school programs for school aged youth. The Chess Program Manager supervises and works alongside the Chess Program Coordinator while overseeing the program’s efforts to recruit, train, and support ASAP Chess clubs. In addition, the Chess Program Manager plans, organizes, and manages several large-scale chess events throughout the year and handles logistics for sponsorship to state/national chess competitions.  The Chess Program Manager is a champion for closing the activity gap and providing equal access to high quality after school chess club activities and competitive opportunities.

We’re looking for individuals who:

• Are passionate about empowering youth, strengthening communities, and providing equitable educational opportunities
• Have at least 3 years’ experience with youth development programs, education, or community outreach
• Value creativity, critical thinking, and attention to detail
• Have some competitive chess experience, either as a player or coach
• Display strong interpersonal skills
• Demonstrate impact in collaborative settings to accomplish strategic goals
• Can multi-task and organize multiple long-term projects with overlapping deadlines
• Are familiar with the Philadelphia school system, preferably as an alumnus
• Have the flexibility to work some evenings and weekends
• Have experience managing a team of volunteers and/or paid support staff
• Required education: minimum Associate’s degree, Bachelor’s degree preferred
• Be able to obtain clearances required to work with youth (available through ASAP)

Full job description.

To Apply: Please send a resume and cover letter (to provide more information on your educational and professional experience) to Sara Morningstar, ASAP Deputy Executive Director at smorningstar@phillyasap.org.

Preferred Start Date: May 23, 2022