IPS Mentor

One Hope United • Kankakee, IL

17h • Hybrid

About The Position

Under the assigned supervisor, the Intensive Placement Stabilization (IPS) Mentor I is a part-time position responsible for providing individualized, one-to-one mentoring sessions to a child or teen who is in the custody of the Department of Children and Family Services and is receiving Intensive Placement Stabilization Services (IPS). The IPS Mentor will provide a trauma-informed approach via a structured, strength-based service for the purpose of addressing social, communication, and daily living needs. Mentoring includes supporting, coaching, and training the youth in age-appropriate behaviors including interpersonal communication, problem-solving, conflict resolution, and relating appropriately to other youth and adults. In addition to supporting the child or youth’s exploration of the ARTs, Vocational experiences, identity, self-advocacy, community, and multicultural interest.

Requirements

• GED High School diploma preferred.
• 0 to 2 years’ experience in childcare work, Social Services, Counseling, mentoring or equivalent combination of education or experience, preferred.
• Reliable transportation, valid driver’s license, and acceptable driving record with OHU required levels of coverage for auto insurance.
• DCFS background clearance.
• Flexibility in scheduling and the ability to work in the office at a minimum of twice a week.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, agency and programmatic procedure manuals, and policies.
• Ability to write monthly reports, and weekly notes and verbally communicate in a clear manner.
• Ability to collaborate with referring partners, community state holders, and DCFS.
• Ability to speak effectively before external and internal groups or individuals who are interoffice, community stakeholders, and within DCFS.
• Ability to exercise discretion and ensure confidentiality in verbal and written communications.
• Positive attitude concerning all aspects of working in a challenging environment (including significant patience and respect for children and families who can become quite angry and demanding), sensitivity to cultural needs, and ability to serve as a positive member of a working team.
• Resourcefulness in researching issues, analyzing information skillfully, solving problems, and developing solutions with minimal supervision in a timely manner.
• Proficient computer skills in a Microsoft Windows environment and adaptive skills to expand software application skills as necessary.

Nice To Haves

• Parenting training are appreciated, but not required.
• Parenting and Attachment Regulation and Competency (ARC) training is appreciated, but not required.
• Free LCSW and LCPC Supervision hours available in some locations.

Responsibilities

• Reports to the Child Abuse Hotline as directed by the Mandated Reporter Act.
• Reports any exposure to communicable diseases or injuries resulting from accidents while in the office or in the field.
• Will provide exceptional customer service to parents, caregivers, community partners, and other team members.
• Will be responsible for making any referrals for services for children prior to the CTS staffing.
• Coordinate planning strategies with other agencies as applicable.
• Will Identify community resources for youth with the youth, teen, and or Intensive Placement Stabilization (IPS) Counselor/Clinician.
• Will support and or complete aftercare planning and consultation with youth, and teens, referring Intensive Placement Stabilization (IPS) Counselor/Clinician.
• Attends and participates in meetings and training sessions as required by the specific job or department.
• Provides approved transportation when deemed appropriate to facilitate involvement in services for the youth and teens.
• Submits expense vouchers, renewed driver's license, and automobile insurance coverage on the due date requested by the direct supervisor or hiring agency.
• Responsible for being reliable and flexible to the programs in terms of hours worked and submitting accurate time sheets; contacts Supervisor for any change in schedule or to approve overtime hours worked.
• This position could require client transport.
• This position will require travel to local coverage areas for client engagement opportunities, training, and advocacy in community meetings or staffing.
• Helps clients to reach goals as determined by youth, teen, Intensive Placement Stabilization (IPS) Counselor/Clinician or IPS treatment plans.
• Advocates for youth, and teens with collaterals such as DCFS/CD, schools, etc.
• Meet weekly in person with the option of remote, as needed or requested by the Intensive Placement Stabilization (IPS) Counselor/Clinician.
• Works cooperatively with the Intensive Placement Stabilization (IPS) Counselor/Clinician, caregivers.
• Notifies their direct supervisor and Intensive Placement Stabilization (IPS) Counselor/Clinician of any immediate needs, changes, or threats to the family or youth.
• Observes and submits accurate written weekly documentation on the service provided and the outcome of the activity and interaction with the youth or teen.
• Hands-on coaching and training with youth in the residential facility, school, and community.
• Will develop with the Intensive Placement Stabilization (IPS) Counselor/Clinician and implement alternative strategies for youth and teens to learn new skills and make functional progress.
• Will support and or provide enhanced conflict resolution and communication skills for youth and teens developed by the Intensive Placement Stabilization (IPS) Counselor/Clinician.
• Will support the youth, and teens’ social skill acquisition through role play.
• Will work with clients on a part-time basis, 20 to 30 hours a pay period.
• Other Duties as Assigned

Benefits

• Tuition assistance up to $2500 per year
• Up to 4 weeks paid Vacation Days, up to 6 paid Personal Days, and up to 5 paid Sick days annually
• Medical, dental, vision, 403b Retirement, flexible spending accounts, health savings account, and short-term disability options
• Agency paid life up to $50K based on salary
• Voluntary Supplemental Life for Employee, Spouse, and Child(ren)
• Voluntary Legal Plans
• Agency paid long term after 1 year of employment
• Career ladders, professional development, and promotion opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED