Job Description: Youth Development Specialist

Job Overview: As a Youth Development Specialist, you will be responsible for designing, implementing, and evaluating programs aimed at fostering the holistic development of young people. You will work closely with vulnerable youth, families, and community stakeholders to create safe and supportive environments where young people can thrive socially, emotionally, academically, and physically.

REPORTS TO: Strategic Initiatives Program Manager

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Salary

Key Responsibilities:

1. Program Development: Design and develop age-appropriate programs and activities that promote the social, emotional, and cognitive development of vulnerable youth.
2. Youth Engagement: Engage with young people in meaningful ways to build positive relationships, trust, and rapport.
3. Mentorship and Counseling: Provide individual and group mentorship, counseling, and support services to address the diverse needs of vulnerable youth.
4. Life Skills Training: Deliver workshops and seminars on essential life skills such as communication, decision-making, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.
5. Community Outreach: Collaborate with community organizations, schools, and other stakeholders to identify resources and opportunities for youth development.
6. Advocacy: Advocate for the needs and rights of young people within the organization and in the broader community.
7. Monitoring and Evaluation: Monitor program effectiveness and participant progress and evaluate outcomes to inform program improvement and decision-making.
8. Crisis Intervention: Provide crisis intervention and support to vulnerable youth experiencing personal, family, or social challenges.
9. Documentation: Maintain accurate and detailed records of participant interactions, service plans, progress notes, and outcomes in accordance with organizational and regulatory requirements.
10. Professional Development: Stay informed about best practices, trends, and research in youth development and related fields, and participate in ongoing training and professional development activities.

1. Community Engagement: Represent the organization at community events, meetings, and forums to raise awareness of vulnerable youth issues and promote collaboration with other stakeholders.

Specific Duties:

• Assessment: Conduct initial assessments of youth participants to identify their strengths, needs, and interests.
• Individualized Planning: Develop individualized service plans for each youth, outlining goals, strategies, and timelines for achieving desired outcomes.
• Group Facilitation: Facilitate group activities, discussions, and workshops on topics such as leadership development, career exploration, and personal growth.
• Conflict Resolution: Mediate conflicts and teach conflict resolution skills to help youth navigate interpersonal challenges.
• Referrals: Make referrals to internal and external resources, such as counseling services, educational programs, and social services, to meet the diverse needs of youth.
• Advocacy: Advocate for youth within the organization and in the community to ensure access to resources, opportunities, and support services.
• Case Management: Provide ongoing case management and follow-up support to monitor progress, address barriers, and adjust service plans as needed.
• Collaboration: Collaborate with colleagues, including counselors, educators, social workers, and other professionals, to coordinate services and provide comprehensive support to youth.
• Parent and Family Engagement: Engage with parents and family members to involve them in the youth development process and strengthen family support networks.
• Documentation and Reporting: Maintain accurate and detailed records of participant interactions, service plans, progress notes, and outcomes in accordance with organizational and regulatory requirements.
• Carry out other duties as determined by Strategic Initiatives Program Manager

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, counseling, education, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
• Two or more year’s previous experience working with vulnerable youth in a formal or informal setting.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build positive relationships with diverse youth populations.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Knowledge of youth development principles, theories, and best practices.
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
• Cultural competency and sensitivity to the needs of diverse communities.
• Flexibility, adaptability, and a commitment to the well-being of young people.

Additional Requirements:

• Background check and/or clearance required.
• Valid driver's license and access to reliable transportation is necessary.
• Mandatory Requirement: Must be willing to travel.
• Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and occasional holidays as needed.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Will require some light lifting.

HOURS: Working hours are generally 8:00 - 4:30 p.m., however it is expected that the Youth Development Specialist will have a flexible schedule and will work additional hours as needed to accommodate evening and weekend activities and reporting deadlines.

Note: The specific duties and qualifications may vary depending on program placement.