Street Youth Outreach Worker

Safe Children Coalition•South Gate Ridge, FL

About The Position

PURPOSE: The Schoolhouse Link (SHL) Street Youth Outreach Worker provides direct services to homeless that aid in the identification, engagement, and assessment of unaccompanied youth age 16-24. The target populations are homeless unaccompanied youth who are living on the street, in a shelter or in another highly unstable situation. The Youth Outreach Worker performs ongoing outreach on their own and as part of a SHL team to aid in the identification, engagement and assessment of homeless and runaway youth. The position provides support and referrals for SHL case management and counseling services. The position is a member of the SHL service team and will work closely with all community partners. The position will also identify systemic gaps and barriers and makes recommendations for solutions and/or improvements to the Schoolhouse Link Program Director.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in education or human services field with two years' experience working with at-risk youth and homeless populations.
Must possess and maintain a valid Florida driver’s license in good standing and comply with all agency driver guidelines and insurance requirements.

Nice To Haves

Professional experience in mental health field and addictions treatment is a plus.

Responsibilities

Perform ongoing outreach services and develop rapport with homeless unaccompanied youth age 16-24.
Provides street/park/library/school/shelter/employment/home/school site visits as necessary.
Identify youth who are in temporary living situations and establish rapport.
Assess the needs of youth and identify and make referrals to community resources and SHL team members.
Provide extra support for youth working with SHL Youth Education Advocate, REACH Program Specialist or Counselor and are identified as having a higher level of needs.
Keep appropriate records and files concerning services to homeless youth. All interactions with participants will be documented accurately and in a timely manner utilizing appropriate reporting mechanisms, including uploading and maintaining accurate data required for the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) youth.
Maintain tracking system and provide periodic reports.
Work with the SCC Youth Shelter to inform youth of supportive services and ensure that youth are visited while at the shelter and during outreach visits following their shelter discharge.
Promote collaboration and positive communication within Family Haven Alliance (FHA) system of care and coordinate activities with MCMs.
Develop and maintain sound working relationships with SCC staff, Family Haven Alliance members, Department of Juvenile Justice, Crisis Centers, jails and community partners.
Maintain flexibility in scheduling.