What are the responsibilities and job description for the Youth Coordinator position at Friends of Foster Kids?
Job Title: Friends of Foster Kids Youth Support Program Coordinator
Location: Friends of Foster Kids, 51341 Celeste , Shelby Township, Michigan 48315
Job Type: Contract Employee, 20 - 30 hrs per week
Reports To: Executive Director, Theresa Toia
Deadline for Applications: January 27, 2024
About Us
Founded in 2008, Friends of Foster Kids (FOFK) is a 501(c)(3), 100% volunteer, non-profit organization dedicated to providing unmet immediate, personal, educational, and transitional needs to foster children and youth of Southeastern Michigan through public and private donations. The FOFK Youth Support Program is dedicated to empowering foster youth as they transition out of the foster care system and into independent adulthood. Our mission is to provide comprehensive support, resources, and mentorship to help young adults build stable, successful futures.
Position Overview
We are seeking a passionate Youth Support Program Coordinator to develop and implement a structured support program for foster youth aging out of the system. This role will involve program design, community engagement, partnership development, and direct support for young adults navigating this critical life transition. The ideal candidate will be an innovative thinker with a strong background in youth services, social work, or nonprofit program management.
Key Responsibilities
Program Development & Implementation
- Design and launch a comprehensive support program tailored to the needs of foster youth transitioning to independence.
- Develop and oversee life skills training, including financial literacy, job readiness, housing assistance, education pathways, and mental health support.
- Create a mentorship initiative connecting youth with trusted mentors and community role models.
- Establish a referral system to connect youth with housing programs, job placement services, and educational opportunities.
Community Engagement & Partnerships
- Build and maintain relationships with local agencies, service providers, businesses, and educational institutions to expand resources available to program participants.
- Collaborate with foster care agencies, social workers, and government programs to streamline services for youth.
- Represent the program at community events, conferences, and outreach efforts to raise awareness and recruit program participants and partners.
Youth Support & Advocacy
- Provide individualized support and case management, ensuring each participant has access to resources that meet their unique needs.
- Facilitate workshops, group discussions, and peer support networks to foster a sense of community and belonging among program participants.
Program Monitoring & Evaluation
- Develop measurable goals and outcomes to assess the program’s effectiveness.
- Track participant progress and maintain accurate records in compliance with nonprofit best practices.
- Provide and attend regular monthly progress reviews.
- Continuously seek feedback from youth participants and adjust program strategies to better serve their needs.
Qualifications & Skills
- Background in Social Work, Human Services, Nonprofit Management, or a related field.
- Experience in program development, youth services, social work, or nonprofit administration.
- General understanding of the foster care system, youth development, trauma-informed care, and independent living challenges.
- Ability to build community partnerships and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
- Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
- Passion for youth empowerment and commitment to social justice.
- Ability to work independently and adapt to a fast-changing environment.
Benefits & Compensation
- Competitive salary, commensurate with experience.
- Flexible work environment.
- Opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of foster youth.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references, (available upon request), to info@friendsoffosterkids.org with the subject line: Youth Support Program Coordinator Application.
Friends of Foster Kids is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages applications from individuals with lived experience in the foster care system, BIPOC individuals, and those with diverse backgrounds.
Job Type: Contract
Pay: $17.28 - $18.28 per hour
Expected hours: 20 – 30 per week
Schedule:
- 4 hour shift
- Day shift
- Evenings as needed
- Weekends as needed
Experience:
- Social Service: 1 year (Preferred)
License/Certification:
- Driver's License (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Shelby Charter Township, MI 48315 (Required)
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Shelby Charter Township, MI 48315
Salary : $17 - $18