Youth Advocate 2 - Our Stay Youth Shelter

Location: San Bernardino. CA

Reports To: Program Administrator/ Shelter Manager

Full-Time (Evenings and weekends may be required)

The Family Assistance Program empowers all individuals and families, regardless of age or gender, by providing the knowledge and skills necessary to lead healthy, safe, and fulfilling lives.

GENERAL JOB DESCRIPTION

As a Youth Advocate, you will play a pivotal role in guiding, mentoring, and championing the well-being of the youth we serve. This position requires a compassionate and dedicated professional passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of young people.

They develop and implement individualized plans that address each youth's specific needs and goals, including academic support, career guidance, and life skills development. They also facilitate group workshops and activities that promote self-esteem, leadership, and community engagement among young people. Duties include completing intake and discharge paperwork, but they are not limited to this.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

•  Mentoring children and teenagers under licensing guidelines (Title 22)
• Assess the needs of youth and develop individualized action plans
• Provide counseling and support to address emotional, educational, and social issues
• Advocated for youth in educational and legal settings
• Coordinate with schools, community organizations, and social services
• Facilitate group activities and workshops
• Monitor and report on the progress of youth
• Develop and maintain relationships with families and caregivers
• Offer crisis intervention as needed
• Promote positive behavior and decision-making
• Conduct home visits to assess living conditions and provide support
• Assist with access to resources such as housing, healthcare, and employment
• Educate youth on their rights and available resources
• Collaborate with the multidisciplinary team for comprehensive support
• Organize and participate in community outreach programs
• Travel between offices, units, and business locations during the workday.

KEY COMPETENCIES

CPR Certification HMIS

Outlook/Email Zoom/TEAMS

MS Office, Word, Excel, PowerPoint Experience with Children

40-hour domestic violence training CAP 360

Crisis Intervention & De-escalation Techniques Conflict Management

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The employee must be able to sit and stand for long periods, Handle, grasp, and feel objects and equipment, lift up to 50 pounds, reach with hands and arms, extend both arms above the head and/or go below the waist, bend or squat, walk and climb stairs and ladders, hear in a moderately noisy environment, and use a phone or headset for extended periods.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions. If accommodation(s) are required, the employee must inform Human Resources by the first week. If accommodation is not needed at the time of employment but becomes necessary later, you must notify Human Resources when it is needed.

Work Conditions: Youth Advocates often find themselves in a dynamic work environment that blends office settings with fieldwork. Their workspace is typically equipped with standard office tools and technology, including computers and specialized software to manage client cases and housing databases. The nature of their role necessitates a high level of mobility, as they frequently travel to meet clients, inspect housing options, and liaise with landlords and housing agencies. Work hours can vary, sometimes extending beyond the typical nine-to-five to accommodate client needs or housing deadlines. This role requires a professional yet approachable dress code, balancing office norms and being relatable to diverse client populations. The social environment is collaborative, with interactions not just limited to clients but also involving teamwork with other professionals in social services, legal, and housing sectors. Emotional resilience is crucial, as the job consists of navigating challenging situations to secure housing solutions. Despite these demands, organizations often support a healthy work-life balance, recognizing the importance of well-being in sustaining high-quality service delivery.

MINOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Strong understanding of adolescent development
• Experience working with at-risk youth
• Knowledge of community resources and services
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Experience with conflict resolution and crisis intervention
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Cultural competency and sensitivity
• Familiarity with legal and educational advocacy
• Passion for working with youth
• Strong organizational skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Flexible schedule to accommodate meetings and events.
• Must be able to pass CPR and First Aid Training
• Pass a physical and a TB Test.
• Pass a background check and be open and honest about any convictions
• Basic computer skills and knowledge of Microsoft Office.
• Must be willing to travel between offices and units during the workday.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE JOB

Education:

A bachelor's degree in Social Science, Psychology, or a related field is preferred.

A high school diploma, its equivalent (GED), or an associate's degree in arts is accepted.

Experience:

1-3 years of experience working with at-risk clients and previously incarcerated populations.

Excellent Networking and Social Service skills.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Experience working with clients facing issues with domestic violence, sexual assault, and other violent crimes.

Experience working with those in crisis.

Commitment to providing client-centered, empowerment-based services to victims of crime.

Other:

Bilingual or multilingual abilities are preferred but not required.

Some evening, weekend, and overnight work will be involved

Valid Driver's License, reliable transportation, and proof of insurance.

Able to pass a background check.

Proof of Auto Insurance and Valid Registration

Have a good driving record (no more than 2 points).

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS:

I have read and understand the entire job description stated above. I also understand that the Family Assistance Program retains the right to change the job description at any time. From time to time, you may be asked to work on special projects to assist with other work necessary to the operation of your group homes or FAP. Your cooperation and assistance in performing such additional work or assignments are expected.

The Family Assistance Program reserves the right to revise, modify, delete, or add to the job description, procedures, and work rules.

I certify that I can perform all of the "Essential Duties and Responsibilities" and possess the qualifications, certifications, medical exam clearance, California Driver's License, acceptable DMV record and proof of insurance as stated in the job description, except as noted here (If none, so state): ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

I understand and agree that this job description does not constitute a written or implied contract for employment, nor does it establish a relationship with the Family Assistance Program. It is " at-will" and may be terminated with or without cause and with or without notice by me or the Family Assistance Program.