Youth Support Specialist - Orangewood Foundation Resource Center

Orangewood Foundation•Santa Ana, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Youth Support Specialists (YSS) provides assistance and life skills instruction to all TAY who visit the ORC. YSS will provides basic needs support and assist youth with getting connected to community resources (e.g.: employment, education, housing, etc.) that will assist the youth with achieving their greatest potential. When considering this job opportunity, please be aware that the role may involve high stress levels due to mitigating participant crises and potential exposure to vicarious trauma. It is essential to prioritize self-care and seek appropriate support when needed.

Requirements

Requires a High School Diploma with a minimum of 4 years’ experience OR a bachelor’s degree with 2 years of experience with similar case management services.
Some experience with crisis intervention/de-escalation techniques
Demonstrate a moderate understanding of Trauma Informed Care
Ability and flexibility to work in a high crisis, fast paced environment
Clear verbal and written communication skills
Ability to work sensitively with youth impacted by trauma
Knowledgeable in Microsoft Office Suite
Basic data entry skills
Ability to accept and implement feedback
Make sound and timely decisions under pressure
Understanding of and passion for the Foundation’s mission, vision, and values.
Enjoys working directly with youth, volunteers, community partners, etc.
Passion for and enjoys working directly with TAY population.
Possess a valid California driver’s license and proof of automobile insurance. Position requires DMV clearance.
Pre-employment screenings include criminal background check, FBI/DOJ fingerprinting, TB test, drug screen, and previous employment verification.
A Plum.io assessment is a required part of the application process, and your application will not be considered complete until the assessment is submitted.

Responsibilities

Administer participant needs assessment to identify areas that require immediate support.
Meet individually with participants to:
Assess basic needs for shelter, food, clothing, physical and mental health
Identify appropriate resources and advocate for services
Assist participants in securing identified resources
Support participants in accessing longer-term care supports
Provide crisis intervention services as needed
Assist youth in developing life skills and positive coping skills
Attend all relevant internal and external meetings and events, advocating for TAY and representing the organization’s mission, vision, and values
Maintain transparency and assist participants in making informed decisions
Provide information and education about risky behaviors and its aftermath to participants, service providers, and other systems that interact with youth
Foster an environment that promotes harmony, partnership, alliance, healing, and thriving
Distribute ORC basic needs resources (hygiene items, meals, groceries, school supplies, emergency work clothes, etc.).
Establish professional, collaborative relationships with all outside community partners who provide their services on site.
Adhere to all program policies and procedures
Assist youth with becoming familiar with and connecting to appropriate community resources.
Provide good customer service by responding timely to phone calls, emails, youth or others who walk into the ORC.
Complete data entry timely into the Apricot database.
Additional duties as assigned by direct supervisor.