Full Time Direct Care Staff (16-20 Year Old Group Home)

Old Colony YMCA • New Bedford, MA

110d

About The Position

Under the direction of the Assigned Supervisor, the Youth Care Advocate is responsible for ensuring that all clients receive professional, safe care in a well-maintained and secure environment. In this function, the Youth Care Advocate is responsible to ensure that YMCA, DCF and DEEC policies are applied. He/she is responsible to apply his/her own skills, experience and interests while interacting and counseling clients. A Youth Care Advocate must maintain a positive role model for clients, enhance their self-worth and provide encouragement so that they may reach their full potential. A Youth Care Advocate is responsible to contribute to a positive work environment by illustrating pride in his/her job and cooperation with co-workers and the Program Director. He/she will reflect and display the values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.

Requirements

• High School education or the equivalent.
• Basic computer knowledge is required.
• Must be able to read and write cohesively for incident reporting.
• Yearly completion of DEEC required and OCY training programs.
• Must have an active and valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Ensure all security procedures are followed to provide a safe, secure and healthy environment for clients and staff.
• Closely monitor all clients in all phases of their daily activities and during their night routine to ensure compliance with program rules and regulations.
• Plan, implement and supervise activities during free time for clients (games, discussions, etc.).
• Conduct thorough intake and discharge procedures, including paperwork and careful storage of clients’ belongings.
• Complete all necessary paperwork and documentation prior to the end of the shift.
• Prevent crisis situations from escalating and assist in crisis situations using Therapeutic Crisis Intervention Skills.
• Attend and participate in all required program meetings and professional trainings.
• Maintain required certifications and may be required to be MAP certified within six months of start date.
• Accept advocacy responsibilities (coach, mentor and support) for assigned residents.
• Report any suspected child abuse to the Supervisor on duty or DCF.
• Supervise, prepare and assist in meal preparation and laundry chores.
• Be punctual in attendance and follow the program’s policies and procedures.
• Receive permission from Program Director or designee prior to leaving your shift.
• Maintain YMCA, DCF, DEEC policies and procedures and adhere to CARF standards.
• Work as part of a team with co-workers.
• Follow dress code policy.
• Complete resident monthly reports competently and on time.
• Assist other OCY programs as directed.
• Assume PIC (Person in Charge) responsibilities as assigned.
• Ensure emergency procedures (fire, safety and medical) are posted and followed by all.
• Complete supply inventories upon request.
• Provide professional and courteous telephone service to all contacts when needed.
• Use personal vehicle for work-related assignments and be reimbursed for mileage.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees