Part-Time Direct Care Staff (17-21 Year Old Group Home)

Old Colony YMCA•Fall River, MA

About The Position

The Youth Care Advocate, under the direction of the Assigned Supervisor, ensures clients receive professional, safe care in a well-maintained and secure environment. The role applies YMCA, DCF, and DEEC policies and procedures, uses the employee’s skills and experience to interact with and counsel clients, and promotes clients’ self-worth and potential through positive role modeling and encouragement. The Advocate also contributes to a cooperative work environment and reflects the values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. The program requires 24-hour staffing. Staff may be required to remain on shift until staffing ratios meet EEC guidelines. The position includes monitoring and supporting residents throughout daily activities and night routines, planning and supervising activities, completing intake and discharge procedures and required documentation, responding to crises, and providing advocacy and practical support. The Advocate also attends required meetings and trainings, maintains required certifications, follows program and emergency procedures, and may assist other OCY programs as directed. Use of a personal vehicle may be required for work assignments, with mileage reimbursement.

Requirements

Must be at least 21 years old.
High school education or equivalent.
Basic computer knowledge.
Ability to read and write cohesively for incident reporting.
Complete yearly DEEC-required and OCY training programs; trainings are mandatory.
Maintain required certifications; MAP certification may be required within six months of the start date, depending on the DCF program.

Responsibilities

Ensure security procedures are followed to provide a safe, secure, and healthy environment for clients and staff.
Monitor clients during daily activities and night routines, and ensure program rules and regulations are followed on and off the unit.
Plan, implement, and supervise clients’ free-time activities.
Conduct intake and discharge procedures, complete associated paperwork, and safely store and label clients’ belongings and valuables.
Complete required paperwork and documentation before the end of the shift, including log entries, van mileage, incident reports, meal count sheets, clinical reports, and security sheets.
Prevent crises from escalating and respond calmly and professionally using Therapeutic Crisis Intervention skills and, if necessary, physical restraints.
Attend and participate in required program meetings and professional trainings.
Maintain required certifications and, depending on the DCF program, obtain MAP certification within six months of the start date.
Coach, mentor, and support assigned residents through advocacy responsibilities.
Report suspected child abuse to the supervisor on duty or DCF.
Supervise, prepare, and assist with meals and laundry chores.
Attend punctually and follow program policies and procedures.
Obtain permission from the Program Director or designee before leaving a shift to ensure adequate staff coverage.
Follow YMCA, DCF, and DEEC policies and procedures and adhere to CARF standards.
Work cooperatively with coworkers.
Follow the dress code policy.
Complete resident monthly reports competently and on time.
Assist other OCY programs as directed.
Assume Person in Charge (PIC) responsibilities when assigned.
Ensure emergency procedures for fire, safety, and medical situations are posted and followed.
Complete supply inventories upon request.
Provide professional and courteous telephone service when needed.
Use a personal vehicle for assignments when required; mileage completed during an Old Colony Y assignment is reimbursed.