Youth Engagement Specialist

National Youth Advocate Program•Chicago, IL

About The Position

The Youth Engagement Specialist works closely with youth and families served by the National Youth Advocate Program to provide advocacy and support toward targeted goals. The position is based in Chicago, Illinois, and is scheduled overnight from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. The specialist helps develop and carry out youth treatment and service plans, engages youth in a trusting and supportive relationship, identifies community resources, and supports family reunification or other permanent living arrangements consistent with the youth’s case plan. The role also involves maintaining required client contact, reviewing youth progress with a supervisor, completing documentation and training, and working in accordance with NYAP’s mission, values, and philosophies.

Requirements

Must be 21 years of age or older.
High school diploma or equivalent GED.
Working, reliable telephone.
Ability to remain alert after hours.
Excellent listening and speaking skills.
Proficiency with desktop and laptop computers, smartphones, tablets, printers, fax machines, photocopiers, and word-processing, spreadsheet, and database software.
Ability to work independently and as a team member.
Ability to multitask efficiently and remain flexible in all situations.
Openness to traveling as needed.
Valid driver’s license, reliable personal transportation, and a good driving record.
Minimum automobile insurance coverage of $100,000/$300,000 bodily injury liability.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s degree in social services preferred.
Two years’ experience working directly with youth and families preferred.

Responsibilities

Perform work consistent with the National Youth Advocate Program’s mission, values, and philosophies.
Participate in developing youth treatment and service plans with the client, caregivers, referring agency, caseworker, significant family members, and natural supports.
Identify community resources and services that may not be available through the internal service continuum.
Assist with family reunification efforts or other permanent living arrangements consistent with the youth’s case plan.
Regularly review assigned youths’ goals, progress, and activities with the supervisor.
Complete required training on time in accordance with state, contract, and licensing agency standards.
Complete required documentation in a timely manner.
Maintain client contact as required by program expectations.
Engage directly with youth to meet service needs and treatment or service plan goals and objectives.
Develop a trusting, supportive relationship with youth while helping them achieve identified goals.
Perform other duties as requested.