Credible Messenger

Latino Network•Portland, OR

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Credible Messenger provides intensive, relationship-based mentoring and outreach to youth at highest risk of involvement in gun violence, aligned with the Family Care Manager model. While the Family Care Manager works with the family and broader support system, the Credible Messenger focuses on direct engagement with the youth, building trust, supporting behavior change, and reinforcing service plans through consistent, high-dosage contact. This role is grounded in culturally specific practice and aligned with Gun Violence Reduction Strategy (GVRS/Ceasefire) principles.

Requirements

Lived experience that reflects the youth and communities served (required)
Experience working with high-risk, justice-involved, or system-impacted youth
Strong relationship-building, communication, and conflict resolution skills
Ability to engage youth in community-based settings and respond to crisis situations
Commitment to culturally specific, equity-centered, and trauma-informed practice
Bilingual/bicultural (Spanish/English)
High School diploma or higher and/or at least two years equivalent experience in community outreach or social services.
Knowledge of emergency, social, education, domestic violence, child welfare, human services, and information/referral systems.
Excellent written and oral communication skills in Spanish and English (including public speaking).
Ability to employ critical thinking and confidence in decision-making and carrying out actions.
Proven ability to work under pressure, manage time, and prioritize tasks to meet goals and deadlines effectively.
Demonstrated ability to work independently and as a collaborative team member.
Commitment to personal and professional development.
Evening and weekend availability may be required, and work hours are flexible to accommodate program implementation.
Reliable transportation is required. Automobile, driver's license, and automobile liability insurance preferred; must be eligible to be an insured driver under Latino Network's Commercial Auto Liability (or become eligible within three months of date of hire).
Undergoing and passing criminal background checks is required.

Nice To Haves

Automobile, driver's license, and automobile liability insurance preferred; must be eligible to be an insured driver under Latino Network's Commercial Auto Liability (or become eligible within three months of date of hire).

Responsibilities

Build and maintain strong, trusting relationships with youth through consistent, high-frequency engagement
Provide individualized mentoring focused on goal-setting, decision-making, and pro-social skill development
Reinforce and support individualized service and safety plans developed in coordination with the Family Care Manager
Conduct outreach in community settings to engage youth who are disconnected or at elevated risk
Model and teach conflict resolution, emotional regulation, and positive communication
Support youth in navigating school, employment, and community systems
Assist in de-escalation and crisis response, working closely with the Family Care Manager and team
Accompany youth to appointments, activities, and pro-social opportunities
Maintain regular communication with the Family Care Manager to ensure alignment and coordinated care
Participate in team meetings, case conferencing, and cross-system coordination efforts
Document all services, contacts, and progress in a timely and accurate manner
Facilitate restorative Justice circles using the Joven Noble, Circle Keepers and Cultura Cura framework