Position Title: Youth Worker
Program: Outreach Augusta
Reports To: Augusta Program Coordinator
Classification: Non-Exempt
Staffs a drop-in center for street youth. Plans and conducts recreational, cultural, social, and youth development activities in conjunction with youth. Provides crisis intervention, information and referral, and basic needs for adolescents who are homeless or at high risk of becoming homeless. Performs street outreach services to locate youth who are disconnected from traditional services. Maintains an atmosphere of trust, respect and equality with youth in all service provision.
1. Youth Work
a. Conduct intakes, assess eligibility, and orient new youth to the drop-in center and to Outreach services.
b. Establish supportive relationships with homeless/street youth and provide opportunities for the development of skills and interests.
c. Provide information and referrals for services, including referrals to Outreach Workers for case management.
2. Drop in Center
a. Staff the drop-in center during its regularly scheduled hours and maintain a safe, welcoming atmosphere for all. Assesses and handles crisis situations.
b. Develop and assist in facilitating group activities.
c. Maintain all required recordkeeping in the drop-in center d. Assist with the routine upkeep of the center, including shopping, cooking, cleaning and maintaining needed supplies
e. Monitors safety of the facility. and notifies supervisor of problems.
f. Monitor the care of infants and toddlers in the Drop-in Center.
3. Street Outreach
a. 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.
b. Record number of contacts and supplies/materials distributed during Street Outreach.
2. Other
a. Complete any other reports or information as assigned.
b. May represent New Beginnings Outreach Program at community events c. Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and other meetings as required by supervisor.
d. Assists with overseeing the work of volunteers, interns and part-time staff.
e. Other duties may be assigned by the Program Coordinator or Program Director
Bachelor's degree in a related field preferred. Experience working with youth, preferably in a non-residential setting, may be substituted year-for-year for up to two years of the educational requirement. Completion of the Maine Child and Youth Care Certificate through UMA can also be used to meet the minimum qualifications of this position.
Basic counseling and crisis intervention skills. Knowledge of community resources.
Good problem-solving skills; literacy and writing skills at least a high school level.
Ability to participate in street outreach activities (walking several miles at a time); ability to climb stairs while carrying food and supplies; strength and dexterity to do basic household chores including cooking, lifting, cleaning and vacuuming.
Time is spent staffing the drop-in floor and in community environment.
