Chicago Run

Type: Full-Time
Start Date: When application closes
Reports to: Director of Programs
Salary: $60,000 - $65,000

About Us 

Founded in 2007, Chicago Run empowers thousands of Chicago's young people, from Pre-K through high school, with access to running and physical activity programs. Our programs meet young people where they are, partnering with schools and community organizations to provide regular opportunities for trauma-informed and non-competitive physical activity. Through these partnerships, we use the power of sport to improve academic performance, positive relationships, social-emotional skills, and physical and mental health. 

Each year, Chicago Run reaches thousands of youth participants through partnerships with Chicago Public Schools, community organizations, and parks. We focus our work in historically disinvested communities on the South and West sides. By partnering with stakeholders deeply rooted in these communities, we reach more young people and deepen our impact.  

We offer customized programs designed to meet the needs of each student and community: 

• Striders (Pre-K to 2nd grade): High-quality physical activity breaks using games that develop vital gross motor skills. 

• Chicago Runners (3rd-5th grade): Physical activity breaks that promote well-being and improve classroom concentration. 

• Running Mates (Middle & High School): Running and physical activity to improve social and emotional well-being in an inclusive, non-competitive environment where students work toward completing a local 5K while building positive self-image, setting goals, and developing relationships with peers and mentors. 

• LACE Up! (Leadership, Action, Community, Endurance): A work-based learning program that trains post-secondary students to serve as leaders, mentors, and coaches for current Chicago Run participants. 

Overview of the Role 

The Program Manager: Events & Out-of-School Time (OST) Programs is the on-the-ground leader of Chicago Run's OST programming and participant events. They are responsible for ensuring high-quality experiences for our Running Mates participants and exceptional program operations. This role oversees OST programs and events while actively supporting in-school programming and intern development. 

Responsibilities 

Running Mates Leadership 

• Oversee all Running Mates programming. 

• Serve as primary support for coaches and site leaders. 

• Coordinate season launches and closeouts. 

• Manage communication with coaches.

• Lead coach training and onboarding. 

• Conduct consistent and regular site visits. 

Program Implementation & Site Support 

• Support implementation of in-school programming (Striders and Chicago Runners).

• Conduct weekly school visits and coaching. 

• Support school launches and sustainability efforts. 

• Support Running Mates teams 2–3 afternoons per week. 

• Coach interns and school staff during program visits. 

Event Planning & Operations 

• Lead planning and execution of: 

• Mid-season Mile events 

• 5K races 

• JTDC 3K 

• School-based culmination events 

• Other community program events 

• Serve as a key collaborator for the annual Fun Run, Chicago Run's marquee program event. 

• Manage registration, transportation, volunteers, vendors, equipment, and event timelines for program events. 

• Lead day-of event operations. 

Program Logistics & Systems 

• Manage equipment, incentives, and supplies. 

• Maintain program calendars. 

• Coordinate transportation and equipment logistics. 

• Maintain inventory systems. 

• Support participant registration systems. 

Organizational Program Support 

• Support intern development and coaching. 

• Participate in community engagement opportunities. 

• Assist with program reporting and grant deliverables.

Work Environment 

Field-Based Leadership: This position is primarily field-based and requires regular presence in partner schools and community program sites. Program Managers are expected to spend approximately 2-3 full days each week coaching and supporting partner schools during the school day and to support out-of-school programming approximately 2–3 afternoons per week throughout each season. Physical demands include handling the storing, packing, and setting up of program equipment and supplies, weighing up to 25 pounds and climbing up and down stairs 
 

Qualifications 

Education & Experience 

• 2-3 years of related experience working in sports-based youth development programs or youth serving organizations. 

• Demonstrates a passion for Chicago Run’s mission, a commitment to equity in alignment with Chicago Run’s core values, and desire to impact youth health and wellness through equitable, inclusive programming. 

• Must be able to pass a background check through Chicago Public Schools. 

• Access to reliable transportation to travel to program sites throughout Chicago as a part of your daily/weekly schedule. 

• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities. 

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Suite.

• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build relationships with a diverse array of stakeholders. 

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills. 

Compensation and Benefits 

This is a full-time, exempt position with a competitive salary commensurate with experience. Chicago Run offers a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement plan, professional development opportunities, and generous paid time off. The position requires some evening and weekend hours for events and donor meetings. Local travel to program sites and donor meetings is expected. 

Our Commitment 

Chicago Run is an equal opportunity employer. We're committed to building a diverse team and providing employment opportunities regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability status, or veteran status. 

Why Join Chicago Run?  

This is an opportunity to join a dedicated, mission-driven team deeply committed to impact. As a smaller, flexible organization, we offer you the unique ability to innovate rapidly within the youth development and public health space, turning bold ideas into action. 

You will be instrumental in fueling the strategic growth that ensures Chicago Run’s mission continues to expand its reach and deepen its vital impact across the city. More than just expanding numbers, you will help us cultivate deep, meaningful connections with the communities and youth we serve, fostering trust and ensuring our programs are truly responsive to their needs. 

If you are ready to champion a cause that is changing lives and embrace the flexibility and innovation that comes with being a nimble organization, we invite you to help us run toward a brighter future for young people in Chicago.