ARK Assistant

Job Description

Aid in implementing the Art Restores Kids (ARK) program at schools, Cricket’s House, and Camp Cricket summer program. Build healthy relationships with youth clients through art, music, and other activities. Serve as a positive role model, helping youth identify healthy, safe, and successful paths. Utilize trauma-informed practices to mentor youth and refer them to appropriate community resources.

Develop and demonstrate an understanding of trauma-informed services as outlined in the Art Restores Kids Training Handbook, providing positive mentorship, redirection, and promoting non-violent behaviors. Understand the ARK program's purpose, components, and procedures, and communicate these to clients, community organizations, school sites, and the public. Familiarize yourself with youth-related issues and appropriate interventions, learning how trauma, violence, substance use, mental health, and poverty impact children and referring clients to relevant community resources.

Complete intake processes and maintain client files using Parent Permission to Participate forms, photo releases, and other necessary documentation. Facilitate workshops using the AWBW Curriculum, utilizing various materials such as paint, oil pastels, beads, clay, etc. Display the ability to work as part of a team by co-facilitating workshops and progressively learning to lead all workshop components, including warm-ups, activities, check-outs, and addressing individual crises or behavioral needs. Plan workshops using the AWBW curriculum to address clients' needs, selecting appropriate workshops based on topics, participant numbers, time, and material availability. Prepare for workshops by identifying and gathering supplies and materials as outlined in the curriculum. Foster social cohesion within groups by promoting respectful relations and focusing on nonviolent behaviors. Track workshop attendance using Excel spreadsheets for reports to the Board of Directors and grant purposes. Promote the Pathways to Purpose program by serving as a mentor, acknowledging participants' strengths, talents, and gifts, and encouraging them to find ways to use their abilities. Model a healthy, trusting relationship through clear communication and setting appropriate boundaries. Participate in Camp Cricket by assisting with children's preparations and attending camp. Assist with event coordination by contacting donors, vendors, organizing donations, preparing venues, etc. Work as part of a team, taking leadership roles when appropriate, but also contributing behind-the-scenes and managing Cricket’s Hope operations. Maintain a consistent and regular schedule as agreed upon with the Executive Director or Program Specialist. Follow the Art Restores Kids Training Handbook and employee handbook.

Competencies Needed

• Develop and maintain good relationships with staff and children
• Be innovative, creative, and take initiative
• Communicate effectively and be open to feedback
• Collaborate, foster, and encourage teamwork
• Display lots of energy, given the long, active, and fun nature of ARK classes and camps, with little downtime
• Exhibit great patience and problem-solving skills
• Have a sense of adventure and wonder that can be shared with ARK

Trained Skills Needed

• Trauma-informed care (basic understanding)
• Ability to multi-task, problem solve, and prioritize work
• Self-sufficiency and resourcefulness
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and the internet

Education/Experience

• Must be 18 years of age or older
• High School Diploma/GED or equivalent
• College experience in Human Services or related work experience necessary for success
• Reliable transportation or effective way to travel to Cricket’s House
• Able to walk, move quickly, reach, bend, and stoop throughout the day
• Adequate energy to actively engage with students throughout the work day
• Pass background check
• Bachelor’s Degree or Candidate for Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Sociology, or related field
• Experience working with children affected by trauma
• Bi-Lingual