Program Specialist

Night Ministry • Chicago, IL

59d • Onsite

About The Position

The Crib is The Night Ministry’s emergency overnight shelter serving young adults, and this role is central to creating a space that is safe, supportive, and grounded in dignity. The position is responsible for the day-to-day care and support of residents during overnight shelter operations, including maintaining a calm and secure environment, modeling positive and respectful behavior, and supporting residents as they navigate immediate needs and next steps. This role works closely with case management and program staff to reinforce individualized plans, promote thoughtful decision-making, and ensure residents feel supported throughout their stay. The role promotes and maintains The Night Ministry's mission to serve homeless clients age 14-24 and their children, if applicable.

Requirements

• Must present a positive role model through attitude, behavior, and appearance.
• Must react quickly and exhibit good judgment in emergency or stressful situations.
• Must take every opportunity to interact with residents and their children.
• Must work cooperatively with TNM staff and volunteers.
• Excellent interpersonal skills; able to interact comfortably with diverse populations.
• Successful completion of TNM Foundations Training within six (6) months of hire
• Completion of First Aid/CPR Certification (within two years)
• Completion of crisis intervention training (within two years)
• Completion and maintenance of Mandated Reporter certificate
• High School diploma or equivalent required.
• At least 1 years’ experience working with at risk youth, must be recent (Volunteer experience counts).
• Ability to pass DCFS licensing requirements.
• Current driver's license and proof of insurability.

Nice To Haves

• Crisis intervention training a plus.
• First aid/CPR training a plus.

Responsibilities

• Complete initial intakes with new residents on the day of arrival; complete all paperwork.
• Attending all weekly staff meetings and mandatory training.
• Accurate and timely data entry in Efforts to Outcomes (ETO).
• Record in log daily activities, progress and other significant issues for residents occurring on each shift: be available to update workers arriving to work following shift; review log at start of each shift carefully.
• Promptly greet visitors and callers; refer and assist as necessary, in a professional manner.
• Supervise, direct, and ensure that all Night Ministry policies and procedures, as well as "house rules," are applied and always maintained.
• Direct and assist residents with basic life skills development for themselves and their children, if applicable (personal hygiene, cleaning of rooms and entire facility, cooking, laundry, childcare, etc.).
• Arrange for residents' transportation to various appointments and activities; may drive company vehicle if prior approval is obtained.
• Always ensure residents’ safety and well-being; report all unusual incidents, rule infractions, emergencies, and any visits by outside agencies (such as police, fire, DCFS) to on-call supervisor promptly.
• Provide the best possible service for residents. Be aware of conditions and offer ways to improve upon operation of the facility and agency.
• Display qualities of consistency, fair-play, firm but kind control (such as, supporting the resident while approving or disproving of their behavior), clear boundary-setting, tolerance, flexibility, and professional demeanor.
• Coordinate work responsibilities with volunteers, informing case management or volunteer coordinator when any questions or issues arise.
• Inform case management and Program Supervisor of any issues with residents promptly, either written or verbally.
• Instruct residents in monthly fire drill (emergency) procedure.
• Make referrals to other shelters, institutions, or organizations as necessary.
• Special tasks and projects as assigned; may include field trips to various locations (such as museum visits, athletic activities) as assigned.
• Responsible to check employee mailbox regularly for any notices, updates, communications distributed in that manner.
• Regularly attend all staff meetings.
• Attending special training as required.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED