Learning Center Mentor Part Time

About the role

Lutheran Services Florida (LSF) is looking for a talented Learning Center Mentor who wants to make an impact in the lives of others. The Lakeside Learning Center Mentor provides essential guidance, support, and encouragement to resident teen mothers and youth at risk of sex trafficking who reside at our group home. This position is crucial in equipping teens with the tools, knowledge, and confidence they need to successfully navigate their transition into independent adulthood. Mentors work collaboratively with youth to develop and implement individualized academic, vocational, and life skills plans, fostering an environment of growth and empowerment as they transition into adulthood. This is a direct care position and is not eligible for remote work.

Responsibilities

• Assist youth with their academic studies, assessments, providing tutoring and support as needed
• Guide and support youth in registering for and navigating online educational platforms
• Facilitate engagement with Florida literacy programs and other educational resources to enhance foundational skills
• Collaborate with youth to develop comprehensive education plans that align with their long-term goals including assessment testing
• Lead vocational exploration activities, helping youth understand the connection between educational choices and various career paths
• Facilitate the creation of career posters and other visual aids as projects to deepen vocational understanding
• Actively explore and facilitate opportunities for internships and apprenticeships with youth when possible, connecting them with real-world work experiences
• Provide guidance on resume building, interview skills, and job search strategies
• Work closely with youth to develop and implement their individualized life skills plans, covering areas such as financial literacy, drivers' education, healthy relationships, personal care, parenting classes, mommy & me activities and independent living
• Integrate academic, vocational, and life skills goals into the youth's overall service plan upon admission, ensuring a holistic approach to their development
• Provide practical support and coaching for daily living activities and problem-solving and spiritual growth
• Encourage and facilitate involvement in extracurricular activities, part-time jobs, or volunteering opportunities to promote personal growth, social skills, and community integration
• Identify and connect youth with positive community resources and networks
• Serve as a consistent and positive role model, offering emotional support and encouragement
• Advocate for the youth's needs and interests within the group home and with external partners
• Provide transportation as needed
• Assist with healthy meal planning and preparation as needed
• Maintain accurate records of progress, challenges, and achievements for each youth

Physical requirements

• Ability to remain in a stationary position for extended periods to facilitate lessons, observe activities, or complete documentation
• Frequent movement within the facility, including walking between classrooms, offices, and activity spaces
• Ability to bend, stoop, reach, and lift up to 25 pounds to set up materials, move equipment, or assist youth with projects
• Sufficient hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity to operate a computer, handle educational materials, and use standard office and classroom equipment
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in person and by phone to provide instruction, guidance, and support to youth and staff
• Capability to monitor and respond to student behavior and safety concerns quickly and effectively, which may require short bursts of physical activity
• Adequate vision and hearing (corrected or uncorrected) to read materials, observe group activities, and respond to verbal cues and safety alerts

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

Education & experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Minimum 1 year experience working with youth
• Strong understanding of academic support strategies and vocational guidance

Qualifications

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Patience, empathy, and a genuine commitment to the well-being and development of youth
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and mentoring skills
• Requires flexibility, including holiday and weekend work on a rotational basis
• Must pass a comprehensive background check and drug screening
• Valid driver's license and clean driving record for last 2 years
• Report to Lakeside Learning Center Manager
• Able to work independently with minimal supervision
• Adherence to LSF personnel policies and procedures