Youth Shelter Case Manager

Description

WHO IS YFA?

We tackle some of the world's toughest problems. Our employees are an incredible group of compassionate, committed individuals, drawn by the opportunity to make a difference. Year over year, our employees report they are proud to work here and are willing to go above and beyond in service of our mission to create a safe, nurturing environment for children. 

Youth and Family Alternatives, Inc. (YFA) was founded in 1970. Our purpose and role are to serve children and families in crisis, providing programs that encourage healing, restoration, and success for those we serve. This is why “Family” is our middle name! Our hardworking 350 team members work in partnership with communities and families, providing a full range of services across the state of Florida. 

No matter the role, we believe every team member at YFA has a critical role in supporting our children and our communities and we constantly strive to ensure a positive, purpose-driven, dynamic work environment for you to learn, grow and meet your fullest potential.  

Put your talents to use in a culture of care where you can make the world a better place.

POSITION SUMMARY:   

The Youth Shelter Case Manager is responsible for providing care, coordination, and referrals to meet the needs of children in the Youth Shelter as identified by the counselor. This position assists with connecting children to community resources to include medical, educational, vocational, housing, and other needs related to the family in order to facilitate a safe transition back home for the child.

In addition to the duties and requirements listed below, YFA expects employees to be committed to incorporating principles of trauma-informed care in all areas of service delivery. Commitment to these principles is demonstrated through active participation in agency-required trainings, use of trauma-informed practices, and understanding that trauma-informed environments require cultural sensitivity and an emphasis on a safe and respectful environment for all.

WHAT YOU WILL DO: 

• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to build and maintain internal and external relationships.
• Skilled in monitoring large groups and managing group dynamics.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team setting.
• Demonstrates respect for others.
• Accepts guidance and direction from supervisors.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Active listening skills, providing a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals.
• Assists youth in achieving and maintaining recovery from mental health and/or substance use conditions.
• Provides peer and case management services to shelter residents.
• Manages a caseload based on client session frequency.
• Completes service documentation, including contact notes, within 48 hours.
• Facilitates weekly staff meetings, ensuring accurate documentation and communication.
• Maintains up-to-date knowledge of laws, DCF, DJJ, and agency guidelines.
• Conducts client follow-ups per Medicaid, Florida Network, and DJJ requirements.
• Handles shelter crisis calls for youth needing peer support.
• Participates in meetings, supervision sessions, and team discussions.
• Provides input on program and service improvements.
• Engages in on-call duties, staff meetings, and required training.
• Plans and leads activities and field trips to promote life skills and education.
• Ensures necessary services are provided to clients.
• Completes administrative tasks as required.
• Creates a safe and welcoming environment for youth, families, and colleagues.
• Implements a trauma-informed approach, demonstrating sensitivity to client needs.
• Practices self-care and seeks support to prevent burnout.
• Adheres to agency policies and procedures.
• Upholds the agency’s core values and mission.

Location:  Bartow, FL

Requirements

WHAT YOU NEED:

Education & Experience:  Bachelor’s degree. Minimum of 1-year post-Bachelor’s experience directly in Human Services working with high-risk youth preferred. Applicants with lived experience with any of the following is preferred: Adult in recovery for a minimum of 2-years from a mental health and/or substance use condition; Family member or caregiver to another person who is living with a mental health and/or substance use condition; Veteran of any branch of the armed forces who is in recovery for a minimum of 2-years from a mental health and/or substance use condition; Aged 21-29 at the time of application and have lived experience as a person who, between the ages of 14 and 25 experienced a significant life challenge and is now living a wellness and/or recovery-oriented lifestyle for at least two years.

Preferred knowledge and understanding of trauma-informed principles and practices, including the importance of creating a safe environment, fostering trust, promoting collaboration, and empowering individuals.

Ability to manage personal reactions to traumatic stories and situations and communicate a sense of trust and safety. Ability to understand and empathize with individuals, recognizing the impact of trauma on emotions, relationships, and overall well-being.

Physical Requirements: Ability to travel regionally on a regular basis and statewide as needed. Ability to bend, lift, and carry 30 pounds.

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?

At YFA, we are as dedicated to our team members as we are to our mission! YFA provides:

· 13 Days of PTO, Incrementally Increasing Annually

· 13 Paid Holidays

· 5 Days Parental Leave

· Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

· Short-Term Disability and Long-Term Disability

· Supplemental Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity Insurance

· Paid Life Insurance

· Legal Services

· ID Monitoring

· Pet Insurance

· Employee Assistance Program

· Tuition Reimbursement

· Immediate eligibility for 403b Savings Plan with match after 12 months

· Continuous training and professional development opportunities

And of course, an opportunity to make the world a better place!

Youth and Family Alternatives is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. We adhere to the principles of affirmative action and strictly prohibit any form of discrimination or harassment based on these protected characteristics.

Youth and Family Alternatives complies with applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This commitment extends to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, selection, promotion, transfer, training, working conditions, compensation, benefits, and other privileges of employment.

Youth and Family Alternatives is committed to promoting a healthy and safe work environment, which is why we maintain a smoke-free workplace at all times. All forms tobacco or vaping products of any kind at any time on our premises. Smoking is prohibited in all indoor areas, as well as outdoor spaces. Individuals must leave our campus which includes our parking lots and other public areas, in order to smoke, vape, or use smokeless tobacco.