Exploring Roles in the ECE Community

I found this assignment a little difficult because right now, I can’t imagine (nor do I want to) myself working for any organization other than Air Force Child and Youth Programs.  Additionally, I did not find many jobs that I could do on the administrative side.  I enjoyed my time in classrooms with the children but I think those days are behind me and I enjoy training and mentoring teachers who work in direct care roles with the children.  However, I was able to narrow my search down to a few that seemed interesting and would be beneficial for children and their families.

Boys & Girls Clubs of America

One organization I would love to work for is Boys and Girls Clubs of America!  They offer programs that focus on character and leadership sports and education, the arts, health and wellness and career development, to name a few.  Military child and youth programs work very closely with this agency and I have witnessed first hand the benefits that children receive when having the opportunity to participate.  One of my favorite programs, the Youth of the Year, encourages children to explore their interests and beliefs and really consider how they want to shape their future.  Youth from Tyndall AFB have been awarded monetary awards such as scholarships and cash as well as laptop computers.  But in addition to that, they have been given opportunities to speak at public events and travel to different parts of the country and meet like-minded youth. These are opportunities that no amount of money could ever provide for them.

Job Opportunities.  There was one job opportunity that stood out to me on this website, and that is the position of Assistant Director Military Outreach (Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Marine Corps).  In order for me to completely fulfill this role, I need experience in the management, administration and operation of a BGC or similar organization. 

Website:  https://www.bgca.org

Kids Included Together

Another organization I would like to work for is KIT (Kids Included Together).  Their training topics cover everything from inclusion practices to Autism and ADHD questions answered to mental health and positive behavioral support.  As long as I have worked in child and youth services, I have noticed an increase in the need for the types of training they offer. Additionally, they offer scheduled telephone conferences to support specific issues.

Job Opportunities.  At the time, there are no jobs listed for Kids Included Together. I would imagine that there should be some degree of early childhood education needed, as well as specialized experience in working with families and organizations who have children with special needs or behavioral issues. 

Website:  https://www.kit.org

Various Children’s Hospitals

Lastly, I would consider being a Child Life Specialist.  From what I have read, these specialists work with children who are in medical settings along with their families to help them cope with their current situations, offer support and help them understand what lies ahead.  I can imagine that this job would be difficult but it is still something that I would love to consider.  To work as a CLS, I would need a certificate for Child Life Specialists from the Association of Child Life Professionals and 2 years full-time clinical experience as a CLS.