Independent Living Specialist

JusticeWorks•Somerset, NJ

2d•Onsite

About The Position

JusticeWorks YouthCare is seeking an Independent Living Specialist! You will have the opportunity to be part of a dynamic team of professionals working to empower young people to transition successfully to independent living. In this role, you will be responsible for providing comprehensive case management services to youth and young adults in a variety of settings. You will use your skills and expertise to foster positive outcomes for the youth you serve, and to help them develop self-sufficiency and resiliency. As an Independent Living Specialist, you will be a mentor, advocate, and resource for youth and their families as they navigate the transition to independent living. Your dedication and commitment to helping youth reach their goals is invaluable. If you have a passion for working in the field of Child Welfare, Juvenile Justice or Social Work, we look forward to having you join our team! JusticeWorks is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Requirements

Master’s or Bachelor’s Degree in social work; criminal justice; psychology; counseling; education; sociology; political science
A minimum of one (1) year direct care experience or supervised practice in lieu of the experience requirement.
Valid driver’s license, auto insurance and access to a vehicle.
Pass current, applicable clearances.
Pass pre-employment, post-offer drug screening.
Ability to work non-traditional hours including evenings and weekends.

Responsibilities

Complete IL assessments and reports.
Plan and facilitate meetings, individual sessions, group sessions, classes, camps, and activities.
Liaison with community resources in order to build a pool of available instructors, volunteers, etc. necessary for the implementation of the IL program.
Interact with IL youth on a one-on-one basis providing individual instruction as deemed necessary per his/her IL plan and living situation to transition to self-sufficiency through exploration of education, career, vocational, employment, daily living skills, fiscal and budgeting, substance abuse and prevention activities.
Follow up on all necessary activities with Aftercare youth including daily assistance if necessary to ensure all needs are being met including housing, education, employment, as well as, safety and support needs.
Assist youth in acquiring items earned through the stipend program.
Transport youth in personal vehicle to youth homes, placement locations, foster homes, IL class sites, etc.
Develop cooperative relationships with the County’s full range of human services.
Participate in court hearings, legal proceedings such as abuse court orders, magistrate court for truancy/fines etc., county meetings, new training, state or county initiatives or requirements as pertaining to Aftercare youth.