SafeSpace headquarters is a nonprofit in San Mateo County that operates on a youth-derived, driven, and delivered model, with a strong focus on Prevention and Early Intervention (PEI). Central to our approach is empowering young leaders to take charge of their own well-being and recovery, as well as that of their peers.

SafeSpace received a state grant to open a new program and office in Alameda County that focuses on serving participants 18 - 25 years of age. The program focuses on a whole-person health approach to help young adults with mental health challenges in the five areas:

• Defining wellness
• Education
• Peer Certification
• Peer Support and Empowerment
• Family / Caregiver Support

The Program Navigator position at SafeSpace plays a critical role in guiding participants through their mental health journey and connecting them with the resources and support they need to thrive. Here's an overview of the responsibilities and qualifications for the Program Navigator position:

Responsibilities:

• Participant Support: Provide individualized support and assistance to participants in navigating the mental health system, accessing services, and overcoming barriers to care. Serve as a trusted ally and advocate for participants, empowering them to make informed decisions about their mental health and wellbeing.
• Resource Referral and Navigation: Conduct assessments to identify participants' needs, preferences, and goals, and connect them with appropriate resources, services, and programs both within SafeSpace and in the community. Assist participants in accessing mental health services, treatment options, housing resources, financial assistance, and other supports as needed.
• Case Management: Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of participant interactions, service referrals, and progress towards goals. Develop and implement individualized care plans in collaboration with participants, incorporating their strengths, preferences, and aspirations. Monitor participants' progress, provide ongoing support, and adjust plans as needed to ensure optimal outcomes.
• Crisis Intervention and Support: Provide crisis intervention and support to participants experiencing acute distress or crisis situations. Offer immediate assistance, safety planning, and emotional support, and connect participants with appropriate resources and services to address their needs and ensure their safety.
• Collaboration and Coordination: Collaborate with other members of the SafeSpace team and community partners, to coordinate services and support for participants. Communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders to ensure seamless coordination of care and timely access to resources.
• Community Outreach and Engagement: Conduct outreach activities to raise awareness about SafeSpace programs and services and engage with potential participants in the community. Participate in community events, workshops, and meetings to promote mental health awareness, reduce stigma, and build relationships with community partners and stakeholders.

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Lived Experience or Understanding of Mental Health: Personal lived experience with mental health challenges or a strong understanding of mental health issues and the mental health system.
• Compassion and Empathy: Demonstrated compassion, empathy, and sensitivity in working with individuals facing mental health challenges. Ability to build rapport, establish trust, and communicate effectively with diverse populations.
• Resourcefulness and Problem-Solving Skills: Strong problem-solving skills and resourcefulness in navigating complex systems and connecting individuals with appropriate resources and support services.
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including active listening, empathy, and the ability to communicate effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Organizational and Time Management Skills: Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple responsibilities, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Ability to work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team, including counselors, peer support specialists, case managers, and community partners, to provide comprehensive support and care for participants.
• Flexibility and Adaptability: Flexibility and adaptability to respond to changing needs, priorities, and situations, including the ability to work evenings and weekends as needed to support participants and attend community events.
• Bilingual - a plus!

Overall, the Program Navigator position at SafeSpace offers an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of participants by providing guidance, support, and advocacy as they navigate their mental health journey and access the resources they need to thrive.

JOB TYPE

Part-time (20 hours / week)

*IN-PERSON / IN-OFFICE; NOT A REMOTE POSITION

SALARY BENEFITS

$21.00 an hour

$500 annual bonus

TO APPLY

Please email your cover letter and resume to:

Accepting applications: May 2024

Interviews: May 2024

Anticipated Start Date: June 3, 2024

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: Up to $21.00 per hour

Expected hours: No more than 25 per week

Schedule:

• 4 hour shift
• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Evenings as needed
• Monday to Friday
• Morning shift
• Weekends as needed

Work Location: In person