Youth Development Coordinator (Part Time)

Overview

• Part-Time Position**

The Youth Development Coordinator assists vulnerable DCS Foster Care Youth, ages 16-24, involved in the Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act (WIOA) program and those involved in the Behavioral Health system, with gaining necessary skills, resources and supports for self-sufficiency and independent living as they make the transition to adulthood.

The Youth Development Coordinator will use strengths-based youth development principles and provide a unique, holistic approach to address needs related to all life domains, with primary focus on employment and education. Barriers to youth goals will be approached with high expectations, creativity, caring and support. Connections will be made with natural, informal supports and community resources.

The Youth Development Coordinator provides the primary link, and coordination of support and services, between the youth and other entities involved such as DCS Case Managers, behavioral health treatment providers, group homes, transitional housing and others.

Coordination will also occur regularly with the program’s Education Coordinator regarding the youth’s educational goals and with educational goals, strengths, skills, needs, accommodations and other resources/linkages that are needed to promote academic, social, and employment growth.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct service to the youth at 50% productivity target including assessment, skill building, and coordination of care. Engages formal and informal resources to promote successful transition into adulthood. Conducts work living skill workshops, and assists in determining needs necessary for youth to pursue reach self-sufficiency. Assists youth in securing needed documentation (birth certificates, social security cards, etc…) and benefits such as Medicaid, SSI, food stamps, etc…
• Complete client record documentation professionally, on-time, using the Agency’s electronic medical record system and the AZ Job Connection (AJC) system.
• Communicates directly and regularly with other team members, and outside agencies and services, regarding Youth needs and progress in order to ensure coordinated services that best meet the youth’s needs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, education, psychology, or related field preferred; or AA degree with 2 years working with youth with behavioral health and/or learning challenges.
• Able to work independently on specific assignments.
• Acceptance of individual differences in people.
• Ability to be flexible as specific tasks will change with the evolution of the program.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and proof of car insurance.
• Awareness of one’s capabilities and limitations.
• Must have dependable transportation. The vehicle must have appropriate passenger restraint systems and be properly maintained.
• Experience working with CPS youth a plus. .
• Must be able to obtain / maintain AZ DPS Level 1 Fingerprint Clearance Card without Restriction(s).
• Bi-lingual bi-cultural a plus.