Department: Workforce Development
Reports to: SLAYB Program Manager
Status: Non-Exempt

SUMMARY

Under the direction of the SLAYB Program Manager, the South LA YouthBuild(SLAYB) Youth Advocate will provide one-on-one and group case management and supportive services to at-risk and transition-age youth who are enrolled in CRCD’s flagship South LA YouthBuild program. The Youth Advocate will assess basic needs, identify barriers to employment and education, and develop an Individual Service Plan to address those barriers. The Youth Advocate will also coordinate services to help improve the soft skills and hard skills of youth to support the preparation of entering living wage jobs with a career path upon graduation of the SLAYB program.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Contact, receive and review referrals to Workforce Program from local schools, community-based organizations, and government agencies, including walk-ins
• Follow instructions to implement outreach activities that include making presentations to non-profit organizations, government agencies, probation/ parole staff and agencies, schools, and conduct door to door outreach in the targeted neighborhood
• Conduct program information sessions, orientation, facilitate Mental Toughness
• Verify eligibility documentation and enroll SLAYB participants in MIS system
• Conduct individual needs assessments regarding basic needs such as housing and food; education level and school enrollment; current income, employment, and past work experience; eligibility for Independent Living Program services through the foster care system; gang affiliation; and involvement with the justice system
• Develop an Individual Service Plan identifying short and long-term goals, barriers to employment and action steps to address those barriers
• Conduct daily check-ins with youth to provide high-touch case management, keep them motivated to reach the goals on the Individual Service Plan and keep them informed of SLAYB program events and relevant information
• Meet weekly with other case-managers/youth advocates to plan activities, to strategize on service delivery for members, and other activities identified by the network (Case Conferencing)
• Meet with youth on an individual basis at least weekly to monitor progress in each program component; identify resources to meet supportive service needs such as tutoring or counseling; problem-solve; review the Individual Service Plan and modify as needed

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• 1- 2 years’ experience or related work and/or BA Degree
• Familiarity with out-of-school, foster and justice-involved youth is a plus
• Knowledge of database management and quality control process
• Reliable, flexible team player who works well with minimal supervision, who has a good work ethic, and an ability to set and maintain personal boundaries
• Demonstrated ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously, and to meet deadlines
• Demonstrated knowledge of community resources
• Reliable transportation: valid driver’s license, and car insurance as required by law, as appropriate
• Knowledge and experience of Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Power Point)