Full Time Direct Care Staff (16-20 Year Old Group Home)

About the Role

The Youth Care Advocate ensures that all clients receive professional, safe care in a well-maintained and secure environment while adhering to YMCA, DCF, and DEEC policies. This role involves interacting and counseling clients, maintaining a positive role model, and fostering a supportive environment to help clients reach their full potential. The advocate contributes to a positive work environment and upholds the values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

Responsibilities

• Ensure all security procedures are followed to provide a safe and healthy environment for clients and staff.
• Monitor clients during daily activities, night routines, and both on and off the unit to enforce program rules and regulations.
• Plan, implement, and supervise activities during clients' free time (e.g., games, discussions).
• Conduct thorough intake and discharge procedures, including paperwork and proper storage of clients' belongings.
• Complete all required documentation, such as log entries, incident reports, meal count sheets, clinical reports, and security sheets before the end of each shift.
• Prevent and de-escalate crisis situations using Therapeutic Crisis Intervention Skills and, if necessary, physical restraints.
• Attend and participate in all required program meetings and professional trainings.
• Maintain required certifications, including potential MAP certification within six months of hire.
• Act as an advocate, coach, mentor, and support for assigned residents.
• Report any suspected child abuse to the Supervisor on duty or DCF.
• Supervise, prepare, and assist in meal preparation and laundry chores.
• Adhere to punctuality and program policies, ensuring proper staff coverage before leaving a shift.
• Maintain compliance with YMCA, DCF, DEEC policies, and CARF standards.
• Work collaboratively as part of a team with co-workers.
• Follow the dress code policy and complete resident monthly reports competently and on time.
• Assist other OCY programs as directed and assume Person in Charge (PIC) responsibilities when assigned.
• Ensure emergency procedures (fire, safety, and medical) are posted and followed by all.
• Complete supply inventories upon request and provide professional telephone service.
• Use a personal vehicle for work assignments as required, with mileage reimbursement provided.

Requirements

• High school education or equivalent.
• Basic computer knowledge and ability to read and write cohesively for incident reporting.
• Yearly completion of DEEC-required and OCY training programs.
• Active and valid driver’s license.

Schedule

This is a full-time position requiring 40 hours per week, including potential mandated overtime to meet staffing ratios.