Youth Peer Support Navigator

Job Title: Navigator- Youth Peer Support

Department: Community Action Youth Advocacy

FLSA Status: Non-exempt

Hours/Weeks: Full Year, Part Time (10 hrs. per wk.)

Hiring Range: $17.50 - $18.85

NEKCA Mission Statement:

To empower all generations in the Northeast Kingdom to grow, prosper, and thrive.

SUMMARY:

Navigators at NEKCA help community participants access a variety of our services utilizing a human-centered approach. Through compassion and relationship-building, Navigators support participants with access to programmatic offerings. Navigators are often the first faces that participants see and help make our spaces and services warm and welcoming.

This position is a Navigator for the Youth Advocacy Program in the Community and Social Justice Department which primarily supports youth utilizing the Community Youth Center.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Perform intake per requirements of NEKCA/grantor. Determine and verify eligibility for all applicants in accordance with program guidelines
• Collect and report all data accurately and timely into GoEngage to meet program deadlines
• Assess participants in crisis to determine immediate needs and develop plan for response, including referrals (interagency and external)
• Work collaboratively with community partners to address needs of low-income households
• Understand and follow all program guidance and policies
• Provide programmatic support to work team as designated by Program Manager
• Provide Program Manager with regular updates
• Attend and participate in staff, agency and community meetings deemed necessary for job performance

LEADERSHIP QUALITIES:

SUPERVISOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

N/A, this position does not supervise any staff.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist the Youth Center Coordinator with planning and executing youth programs and events.
• Ensure program materials and supplies are available for activities and events.
• Communicate effectively with program participants, parents/guardians, and staff.
• Follow policies and procedures for the program and the organization.
• Collaborate with other staff and community partners to create positive outcomes for youth.
• Attend meetings and trainings to improve skills and knowledge.
• Represent the program and organization in a professional and positive manner.
• Other duties as assigned by the Youth Center Coordinator.
• Be at least 17 years of age.
• Experience working with children and/or youth in a group setting.
• Understanding of Restorative Practices.
• First Aid and CPR certification.

Core Competencies:

• Must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Must be able to maintain good relations with participants, other staff, and members of the community.
• Must have knowledge of basic computer skills and record keeping, including spreadsheet applications.
• Must be responsible, self-motivated, self-initiated; may need to work flexible hours (program dependent)
• Demonstrate positive problem-solving skills in stressful situations.
• Demonstrate the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Demonstrate familiarity with and sensitivity to the challenges faced by low-income individuals and some knowledge of the community and available resources to address them.
• Maintain confidentiality.
• Complete all required training and professional development.

Education and Experience:

High school diploma or equivalent, or to be obtained within 120 days of hire date. A degree in education, social work, or a related field is preferred.

1-2 years of relevant experience preferred

Background Checks:

Employees in this role are required to undergo a background check in accordance with NEKCA policy, which may include verifying education, employment history, criminal background, and driving records.

Transportation Requirements:

This position requires that employees have access to dependable transportation.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Employees in this position work primarily in an office environment with moderate noise levels and controlled temperature conditions. The work involves sitting for extended periods of time, using a computer and other office equipment, and may require occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds. Position has occasionally bending, stooping, or reaching for items. Standing or moving around the office area.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions of their job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.