Full Time Direct Care Staff (16-20 Year Old Group Home)

Old Colony YMCA•New Bedford, MA

18d

About The Position

Under the direction of the Assigned Supervisor, the Youth Care Advocate ensures clients receive professional, safe care in a well-maintained and secure environment. The role applies YMCA, DCF, and DEEC policies and uses the employee’s skills, experience, and interests to interact with and counsel clients. The Youth Care Advocate serves as a positive role model, supports clients’ self-worth and development, and contributes to a cooperative work environment reflecting caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. The program requires 24-hour staffing, and staff may be required to remain on shift until staffing ratios meet EEC guidelines. The position is 40 hours per week.

Requirements

High school education or equivalent.
Basic computer knowledge.
Ability to read and write cohesively for incident reporting.
Complete DEEC-required and OCY training programs yearly.
Active and valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

Follow security procedures in the Operations Manual to maintain a safe, secure, and healthy environment for clients and staff.
Monitor clients during daily activities and their night routine, and ensure program rules are followed on and off the unit.
Plan, implement, and supervise clients’ free-time activities.
Conduct intake and discharge procedures, including paperwork and the careful storage and labeling of clients’ belongings and valuables.
Complete required paperwork and documentation, including log entries, van mileage, incident reports, meal count sheets, clinical reports, and security sheets, before the end of the shift.
Prevent crises from escalating and intervene and counsel clients calmly and professionally, using Therapeutic Crisis Intervention skills and physical restraints if necessary.
Attend 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, support, and advocate for assigned residents.
Report suspected child abuse to the Supervisor on duty or DCF.
Supervise and assist with meal preparation and laundry chores.
Arrive 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 colleagues and 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 work assignments when required; mileage for Old Colony Y assignments is reimbursed.