Youth Care Advocate

Old Colony YMCA•Lowell, MA

About The Position

Under the direction of the Assistant Shift Supervisor, the Youth Care Advocate is responsible and accountable for monitoring residents in the program and for maintaining a safe and secure environment for both staff and residents. She/he will reflect and display the core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

Requirements

High School diploma or equivalent work related experience with adolescents preferred.
Capable of consistently and successfully dealing with clients with severe, emotional and behavioral problems
Must have visual and auditory acuity in order to maintain security of the program

Responsibilities

Implement all security procedures of the YMCA and program as outlined in the Operations Manual.
Supervise and monitor all residents in all phases of daily activities and nightly routines.
Implement and supervise recreational activities.
Conduct thorough intake and discharge procedures (including all paperwork and careful storage and labeling of resident’s belongings and valuables.
Keep accurate log entries, van mileage, incident reports, meal count sheets, clinical reports, security sheets, prior to completion of shift.
Attend and participate in all scheduled meetings and trainings, as directed.
Prevent crisis situations from escalating by intervening and counseling clients.
Provide support and assistance in any crisis situation including physical restraint of client and remaining at the unit until the situation is resolved.
Complete advocacy responsibilities including documentation for assigned residents.
Report any suspected child abuse to Assistant Shift Supervisor/Shift Administrator.
Supervise and assist in meal preparation, laundry, and chores.
Complete supply inventories upon request.
Maintain work schedule as directed.
Maintain good driving record.
Receive permission from Shift Supervisor or designee prior to leaving the unit to ensure proper staff coverage.
Provide professional and courteous telephone service to all contacts (courts, DSS, DYS parents, and others)
To assist the Assistant Shift Supervisor in orientation of volunteers, interns, and new employees.
Ensure that petty cash receipts are completed when purchasing items under $20 and that remaining petty cash is returned to Assistant Shift Supervisor.
Inspect all of the equipment and document on the unit security sheet.
Supervise residents’ follow-through on their chore assignments and that floors, walls, bathroom/shower areas, program equipment, etc. are kept clean and sanitary.
To clean staff bathroom and room.
Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s values.
Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs.
Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them.
Supports fundraising.
Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions.
Builds rapport and relates well to others.
Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view and remains calm in challenging situations.
Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively.
Takes initiative to assist in developing others.
Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another.
Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience.
Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work, and actively participates in meetings.
Follows budgeting policies and procedures, and reports all financial irregularities immediately.
Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.
Pursues self-development that enhances job performance.
Demonstrates an openness to change, and seeks opportunities in the change process.
Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths, and limitations and how they impact relationships.
Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.