Youth Specialist – Passageways (Coverage)

The Link•Prior Lake, MN

10d•$20 - $23

About The Position

The Youth Specialists are responsible for the 24-7 safety, supervision, and security of the youth and building at The Link’s Safe Harbor Emergency Shelter and Housing Program for commercially sexually exploited youth. This position provides program supervision and is responsible for supporting youth and promoting a safe, supportive, and nurturing atmosphere. The position is also responsible for assisting in the holistic case-management support of youth and for developing, supporting and implementing youth programming that is culturally-competent and grounded in positive youth development, harm reduction, and trauma-informed care.

Requirements

Desire to continuously learn for personal and professional growth
High level of personal and professional integrity, including ability to protect and maintain confidentiality and data privacy
Knowledge of advocacy toward girls and women’s rights, gender-based violence, and/or the commercial sexual exploitation of minors
Creative and able to engage a diverse range of needs and learning styles
High level of attention to detail
Ability to work effectively with and relate to diverse populations
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, especially for client advocacy
Ability to work independently
Demonstrated ability to efficiently organize, coordinate, track and complete multiple tasks as well as adjust to changing priorities
Computer application proficiency, including Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel
Set schedule; shifts vary; first, second and third shift availability
Current driver’s license, reliable vehicle (with current insurance at the levels required by the Link) and ability to pass a criminal and driving background check
Consistent, regular attendance is required
Four years of working with high-risk and vulnerable youth or an AA or BA degree in a related field
Experience providing comprehensive and holistic supportive services to young people
Training in youth development, harm reduction, and/or trauma informed care
Knowledge of issues related to minor sex trafficking and gender-based violence, comprehensive programming, child welfare, and court systems
Proven experience providing 1:1 and group supports and/or programming within a shelter or other youth setting
Knowledge of supportive housing program and services
Must be able to be insured via The Link’s transportation/vehicle policy and able to drive Link vehicle

Nice To Haves

Preferred knowledge of best practices; trauma informed care, strengths-based approach, harm reduction, positive youth development, etc.

Responsibilities

High level supervision of youth and facility at the Safe Harbor Shelter and Housing Program to ensure safety and security for all youth, staff, and community
Consistently and fairly enforce shelter and supportive housing policies
Develop and facilitate social, educational, and recreational activities that are grounded in youth development and trauma-informed care
Interact with police and child welfare for youth who are dropped off to ensure as smooth a transition as possible
Develop nurturing relationships and maintain healthy professional boundaries
Conduct full intake with youth entering shelter
Assist with case management and coordination of services
Operates phone, security, and front desk systems to create a safe, secure program at all times
Provide clear and daily communication with Program Manager and other team members to ensure holistic, consistent supports and services are in place
Light cleaning and office maintenance
Group facilitation
Complete progress/case notes and maintain participant records
Provide crisis intervention and de-escalation services as needed
Provide transportation as necessary or assigned
Create and maintain a community and culture that is warm, welcoming and supportive of all youth 24-7
Preserve the integrity of the programs and agency
Demonstrate commitment to The Link’s mission and vision, and values of equity, diversity and inclusion
Support the overall growth of the agency
Maintain positive and healthy relationship with co-workers and other related parties
Assist where needed as a team player
Create a safe, respectful, and healthy atmosphere and environment where everyone can grow and learn
Participate in special projects as necessary
Attend all meetings and trainings as required
Maintain positive and professional interactions with clients, co-workers, and all parties involved
All other duties as assigned