Youth Ministry Assistant

Position Summary

The Salvation Army Northern Division Minneapolis Central Corps is committed to "Doing the Most Good" by providing holistic, person-centered services to individuals and families. In addition to worship services and pastoral care, services include support with food, clothing, utilities, rent, securing housing, and both short- and long-term case management, as well as connections to community partners.

The Youth Ministry Assistant supports the Corps' mission by helping to lead weekly youth programming, seasonal outreach activities, and special events that encourage spiritual growth, character development, and community connection. This role serves as a key link between the Corps and families, maintaining open communication with parents and guardians while creating safe, welcoming environments for children and teens. The position also assists with resource coordination, event planning, and budget awareness in collaboration with Corps leadership to ensure high-quality, Christ-centered youth ministry.

Wage: $21-$24, 20 hours per week

2727 Central Avenue NE, Mpls., MN 55418

Essential Functions (Approximate time spent)

• Youth Program Leadership (40%): Plan and lead weekly youth programming, including Sunday Christian education and weekly youth nights. Incorporate spiritual formation, relationship-building, character development, and interactive group activities. Create safe, welcoming environments that encourage participation, address behavioral concerns appropriately, and contribute to program evaluation and improvement. Program days and times may vary based on ministry needs.
• Outreach & Community Engagement (30%): Support the development and delivery of outreach-based youth activities such as Vacation Bible School, seasonal day camps, and quarterly community events. Partner with leadership to coordinate event planning, resource preparation, and follow-up with participants.
• Family Communication (20%): Serve as the primary contact for parents and guardians, providing timely updates, addressing questions or concerns, and fostering positive communication between home and program.
• Resource & Budget Coordination (5%): Track supply needs, assist with purchasing requests, and support stewardship of youth ministry resources in alignment with budget guidelines.
• Special Event Support (5%): Assist with seasonal and organizational events, including community outreach, holiday programming, and fundraising activities (e.g., Christmas campaigns). Provide planning and implementation support as needed.

Education and Experience

• High School diploma or equivalent is required; additional training or coursework in ministry, education, social services, or a related field preferred.
• At least 1-2 years of experience working with children, teens, or young adults in a church, ministry, or community-based program.
• Experience planning and leading group activities, events, or classes strongly preferred.
• Bilingual in Spanish preferred.
• Must successfully pass all background checks, possess a valid driver's license, and clear an MVR check.

Competencies

• Strong commitment to Christian faith and alignment with the mission of The Salvation Army.
• Ability to plan, organize, and lead age-appropriate, Christ-centered activities that engage youth.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build positive relationships with children, teens, parents, volunteers, and colleagues.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills; bilingual communication skills in Spanish/English preferred.
• Ability to handle sensitive situations with discretion, patience, and sound judgment.
• Solid organizational and administrative skills, including scheduling, recordkeeping, and resource tracking.
• Team-oriented with the ability to support and engage volunteers.
• Flexibility to adjust to changing program needs.
• Basic computer proficiency (Microsoft Office, databases, email).

Working Conditions

• Work is performed in both office and active program settings (e.g., gymnasium, classrooms, outdoors).
• Must be able to perform the physical aspects of the role, including mobility, bending, reaching, and typing.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds occasionally.
• Active participation in youth activities (e.g., games, recreation, trips) is required.
• Regular schedule includes weekly evening hours and Sunday hours, with additional evening and weekend hours required for seasonal programs and special events.
• Position is not eligible for remote work.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• None.

Driving/Travel Requirements

• Operate agency vehicles in support of program operations and organizational objectives.
• Occasional local travel is required; rare out-of-town or overnight travel may be necessary.

Other Duties

• All employees acknowledge that The Salvation Army is a church and agree to support its mission.
• This job description is not all-inclusive; duties and responsibilities may be assigned or adjusted by the supervisor as needed.