Outreach Worker

The Salvation Army•Syracuse, NY

About The Position

The Outreach Worker serves high-risk youth in the Syracuse community by building trust, responding to immediate needs, and connecting young people with resources and ongoing support. Work takes place in neighborhoods, parks, other community settings, and family homes, primarily during afternoon and evening hours. The role supports positive choices and safer outcomes through outreach, crisis intervention, mediation, education, and referrals. The Outreach Worker also helps maintain program records, team safety, and appropriate boundaries; gives presentations about outreach services; and assists with Drop-In Center and outreach van operations and maintenance. The position supports The Salvation Army’s daily operations and Syracuse Area Services Strategic Plan objectives.

Requirements

High school diploma, GED, or technical school education.
One to two years of experience working with youth.
Access to private transportation during work hours.
Valid driver license that meets The Salvation Army insurance requirements.

Responsibilities

Provide street outreach services to high-risk youth in community settings, targeted locations, and through partnerships with other agencies, primarily during afternoon and evening hours.
Provide immediate crisis intervention, emergency basic needs, and access to emergency shelter when appropriate.
Prevent risky behaviors, exploitation, and violence through mediation, education, and supportive interventions.
Introduce youth to The Salvation Army’s services and connect them with community resources and ongoing case management.
Maintain team safety, establish appropriate boundaries with clients, and demonstrate cultural competence when providing services.
Maintain accurate service statistics and records to support program accountability.
Conduct presentations about street outreach services to community agencies, providers, churches, and schools as assigned.
Help maintain a safe, positive, and clean Drop-In Center and outreach van, including assisting with coverage and general maintenance.
Support The Salvation Army’s daily operations, team responsibilities, and Syracuse Area Services Strategic Plan objectives.