Youth Worker

Essential Job Functions

• Conduct intakes, assess for eligibility, and orient new youth to the Drop-In Center and to Outreach services.
• Establish supportive relationships with homeless/street youth and provide opportunities for the development of skills and interests.
• Provide information and referrals for services, including referrals to Outreach Case Managers for case management.
• Staff the Drop-In Center during its regularly scheduled hours and maintain a safe, welcoming atmosphere for all.
• Assess and handle crisis situations.
• Develop and assist in facilitating group activities.
• Maintain all required recordkeeping in the Drop-In Center.
• Afford assistance with the routine upkeep of the center, including shopping, cooking, cleaning and maintaining needed supplies.
• Maintain the safety of the facility and notify the supervisor of any issues.
• Monitor the care of infants and toddlers by their guardians in the Drop-In Center.
• Provide street outreach (on foot and in our van) in areas of Lewiston and Auburn where street youth congregate and establish a consistent presence for their access to services.
• Record the number of contacts and amount of materials distributed during Street Outreach.

Specifications And Qualifications

• Education and Training: Bachelor’s degree strongly preferred, preferably in a related field.
• Experience working with youth, preferably in a non-residential setting.
• Valid drivers license required.
• Specialized Skills: Basic counseling and crisis intervention skills. Knowledge of community resources.
• Cognitive Requirements: Good problem-solving skills; literacy and writing skills on at least a high school level.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to participate in street outreach activities (walking several miles at a time); ability to climb stairs, carry supplies; strength and dexterity to do basic household chores including cooking, lifting, cleaning and vacuuming.