Youth Advocate

Ouachita Children's Center•Hot Springs, AR

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Youth Advocate is responsible for the daily care, supervision, interaction and treatment of the shelter residents. This role involves modeling advocacy and mentorship, teaching accountability and appropriate behaviors, and assisting residents in navigating challenges. The position also includes responsibilities related to transportation, supervision of activities, documentation, meal preparation, and medication administration as needed. The Youth Advocate will offer active listening and support, assist with academic needs, teach essential life skills, lead activities, and perform client headcounts. Other duties may be assigned.

Requirements

High school education or GED with a demonstrated ability to work with troubled youth.
Minimum of six months experience in residential care of children preferred.
Must pass physical examination and have a current TB health card.
Must have a current Arkansas Driver's license and an excellent driving record.
Displays leadership skills.
Competent to assess the needs of clients.
Practices and models conflict resolution skills.
Models with clients and staff-accountability, respect and trust.
Ability to work as a team member.
Follows OCC code of ethics.
Ability to collect and analyze data to improve program outcomes.
Demonstrates cultural sensitivity to OCC's clients and families and socioeconomic characteristics.

Nice To Haves

Minimum of six months experience in residential care of children preferred.

Responsibilities

Provides supervision of daily care of residents while modeling advocacy and mentorship to each resident.
Models and teaches accountability, respect, trust and appropriate behaviors relating to shelter rules and guidelines.
Physically capable of restraining youth if necessary (must be trained in Handle With Care and follow policy guidelines concerning seclusion/restraint).
Assists in transportation of residents as necessary to execute the case plan.
Supervises ACT2, Enrichment, visitation, meals, and chores.
Reports on residents' behaviors at the end of each shift by submitting shift notes into EMR.
Completes incident report forms as required.
Participates in staff meetings and trainings as required.
Responsible for meal preparation in accordance with planned menus and keeping records for National School Lunch Program, including Point of Service.
Adheres to OCC medication administration policies and procedures when designated as the medication administrator for shift.
Offers active listening and support during crises or difficult moments to help residents navigate challenges.
Helps residents with homework or academic needs, encouraging goal setting.
Teaches essential skills like time management, conflict resolution, and personal hygiene.
Leads physical, creative, or social activities that encourage teamwork and health.
Performs designated client headcount in 15-minute intervals.
Other duties as assigned.