What are the responsibilities and job description for the Community Outreach Counselor - Case Manager position at Opportunity Communities?
WHY WORK AT NORTH SHORE CDC?
North Shore Community Development Coalition (NSCDC) is a regional, nonprofit organization committed to investing in neighborhoods to create thriving communities. We envision a North Shore where every neighborhood is one of choice and opportunity. We offer extremely competitive benefits, including funding for professional development, a full suite of healthcare benefits, generous paid time off, flexible work hours, and more. YouthBuild North Shore, a workforce development program of North Shore CDC, is for young adults ages 16-24 who have dropped out of school and are ready to embrace a second chance. The program offers educational and vocational training to help them achieve success.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The YouthBuild Community Outreach Counselor is a key member of the YouthBuild North Shore Program, responsible for outreach, recruitment, community service and youth case management. As front-line staff, they provide essential support to help youth become self-sufficient, successfully complete the program, and achieve their goals. They engage, recruit, and build relationships with youth, offering ongoing support in areas such as personal, legal, and social services. Serving as a mentor and advocate, they ensure youth access all program resources and opportunities. The Outreach Counselor will conduct case management, co-facilitate life skills groups and case conferences, and utilize best practices to help disengaged youth. Additionally, they will guide and onboard participants throughout the program.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Primary responsibilities and essential functions may include, but are not limited to:
● Assist with program recruitment and outreach efforts for quality program enrollment.
● Develop a supportive service pipeline of high-need referrals and resources for constituents
● Ongoing case management with a focus on screening and making appropriate referrals to address child's needs in the following domains: Placement issues, safety issues, education, health, mental health, legal/immigration proceedings, substance abuse, independent living, criminal/juvenile justice, and child enrichment activities
● Engage with other aspects of work, such as but not limited to, court engagement, work behind the wall, peacemaking circles, work with the community, productive and professional participation in meetings, etc.
● Meet with constituents weekly to discuss their service plan and progress in the program
● Maintain relationships with other community providers and attend meetings as they pertain to the constituents’ needs (ie court, foster care reviews, advocacy meetings)
● Facilitate supportive group activities that will foster team building, conflict resolution, mediation and plan recreational activities i.e., field trips and special events
● Plan, organize, and accompany students to community service events as part of case management responsibilities.
● Accompany or transport youth to court hearings, appointments, or other necessary meetings as part of case management support.
● Advocate on behalf of participants for all social service needs
Administration - Data and Record Keeping, and Training
● Must be able to type efficiently for documentation and case management tasks.
● Write and track written progress notes on all cases and other required information for the case record, and connect with the team to ensure they are tracking through progress notes
● Assist with performing reviews on participants’ trends and follow up with resolution as part of
case coordination ● May serve as backup within the department as needed.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Education Experience Skills
● Must be passionate about working with Opportunity Youth and Young Adults ages 16 and older and work from a “Youth First Lens”
● Bachelor's degree is required, or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and training may be considered. This includes a minimum of 3 years of experience in human services, social services, education, criminal justice, or a related field.
● Bilingual: Fluent in English and Spanish preferred
● Experience in group facilitation, conflict resolution, and classroom management is required.
● Must possess a valid driver’s license in good standing and the ability to drive a 15-passenger vehicle.
● Must model professionalism in dress, language, ethics, and work habits at all times (100%).
● Must be able to negotiate systems that will benefit the participants and have impeccable researching skills to navigate complex systems
● Must have working knowledge of computers and computer systems
● Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to collaborate with others around program issues and team teach
● Knowledge of or willingness to learn how to write effective case notes and manage a diverse caseload
● Must be able to provide an inclusive program space and understand the needs of marginalized youth and young adults of all backgrounds, cultures, and identities
● Creative problem solving and thinking; Capacity to think and act intentionally and strategically to help young people change behaviors.
● Exhibit self-starter qualities, self-motivation, initiative, strong judgment, and a commitment to continuous learning
● Must be able and comfortable speaking in front of others and delivering presentations when needed.
● Maintain a fun and approachable demeanor while being firm but fair to ensure structure, accountability, and positive relationships with youth.
● Decisive, team-oriented, and good sense of humor
TO APPLY/ MORE INFORMATION:
Submit a cover letter and resume to Jasmine Graddy, Director of Workforce Development by email at jasmine@northshorecdc.org. Please specify “Community Outreach Counselor” in the subject line. This position is a full-time, salaried position. Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience. Health, dental, and retirement benefits package included. Some evenings and weekend hours may be required as needed for outreach, recruitment, and community service events for YouthBuild North Shore-related efforts.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: Starting salary of $47,000, with room for negotiation based on experience and qualifications.
Schedule: 8-hour shift
Salary : $47,000
