Youth Engagement Specialist

NATIONAL YOUTH ADVOCATE PROGRAM•Chicago, IL

22h•$23 - $23•Onsite

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 role involves direct engagement with youth, helping them meet their treatment or service plan objectives, and building trusting, supportive relationships. The position is located in Chicago, Illinois, and has a 3 p.m.–11 p.m. schedule. The specialist collaborates with youth, caregivers, referring agencies, caseworkers, family members, and natural supports on service planning; identifies community resources; and assists with family reunification or other permanent living arrangements consistent with each youth’s case plan. The role also includes reviewing progress with a supervisor, maintaining required client contact and documentation, and completing required training. The position requires reliable transportation and travel as needed.

Requirements

At least 21 years of age.
High school diploma or GED equivalent.
Working, reliable telephone.
Ability to remain alert after hours.
Excellent listening and speaking skills.
Proficiency using 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 different situations.
Openness to travel as needed.
Valid driver’s license.
Reliable personal transportation.
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 in a manner consistent with the National Youth Advocate Program’s mission, values, and philosophies.
Participate in developing youth treatment or service plans with clients, caregivers, referring agencies, caseworkers, 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 or other permanent living arrangements consistent with the youth’s case plan.
Regularly review assigned youths’ goals, progress, and activities with a supervisor.
Complete required training promptly as required by state, contract, or licensing agency standards.
Complete required documentation in a timely manner.
Maintain client contact as required by program expectations.
Engage directly with youth to address service needs and treatment or service plan goals and objectives.
Build trusting, supportive relationships with youth while helping them achieve identified goals.
Perform other duties as requested.