Social Services Aide/Community Mentor

About the Role

Working with the Division of Youth Services involves creating a safe, therapeutic, and educational environment for youth in our day treatment and residential programs. This role requires empathy, nonjudgmental attitudes, cooperation, encouragement, professionalism, and respect, along with clear, honest, and open communication. Join us to make a difference for our youth today!

The current rate for this position is $16.84 per hour. Individual(s) selected may receive a higher rate based on a pay differential (e.g., shift or time-of-service pay). Employees in this title are considered hourly/temporary and are not eligible for any benefits.

Responsibilities

• Transport youth (and possibly family) to school, job, doctor appointments, meetings, etc., in a state vehicle.
• Spend time with youth to develop constructive relationships, participate in recreational activities, or provide structure and guidance.
• Provide extra contact for youth in high-risk cases.
• Monitor clients during home visits from the facility.
• Serve as an appropriate role model and support system.
• Provide tutoring or academic assistance with schoolwork or homework.
• Assist clients in securing employment.
• Assist supervisor in developing employment opportunities and/or community resources for youth/families.
• Contact service providers or community resources regarding the behavior and attitude of clients.
• Meet with supervisor regularly and report information regarding clients.
• Maintain a written log of client contact for documentation purposes.
• Maintain professional and appropriate boundaries with clients.
• Monitor client attendance at school, home, job, GED, AA/NA meetings, etc.
• Develop resources as directed and help families connect with necessary community resources.
• Be familiar with the client's Individual Treatment Plan and assist as directed in completing the plan.
• Develop goals regarding clients, including contact type and frequency, with supervisor.
• Meet weekly (or as directed) with supervisor.
• Keep time sheet current and make it available to supervisor as requested.
• Provide monthly reports of caseload contacts to supervisor.
• Track hours and services provided to youth and families.
• Maintain confidentiality.

Requirements

• A valid driver's license is required.
• Prior experience working with juveniles or college coursework in social science or criminal justice is desired.

Skills and Abilities

• Working knowledge of child development and the role of the family.
• Working knowledge of general techniques for communicating with adolescent clients.
• Basic knowledge of the causes of juvenile delinquency and current methods of treatment.
• Ability to work with clients in an empathetic and understanding manner.
• Ability to communicate effectively with clients, family members, and other treatment staff, and to explain client progress.
• Ability to interact on a community level in a professional and responsible manner.

Pay

$16.84 per hour (may increase based on pay differentials such as shift or time-of-service pay).