WHO WE ARE: We are more than a nonprofit organization. We are a ministry of service that includes nearly 500 paid, professional employees dedicated to helping those in need to rebuild their lives and reach their full potential. Founded locally in 1911, the Northern California & Northern Nevada affiliate of Volunteers of America (VOA-NCNN) is one of the largest providers of social services in the region, operating more than 40 programs including housing, employment services, substance abuse, and recovery services to families, individuals, veterans, seniors, and youth. In fact, VOA-NCNN provides shelter or housing to over 3,500 men, women, and children every night.

OUR MISSION: To change individual lives, instill hope, increase self-worth and facilitate independence through quality housing, employment, and related supportive services. Volunteers of America Northern California & Northern Nevada inspires self-sufficiency, dignity, and hope by providing critical health and human services to thousands of vulnerable individuals and families across Northern California & Northern Nevada.

PROGRAM AND LOCATION: VOA-NCNN, a Certified Great Place to Work, is recruiting for full-time Youth Adovates for the Adolfo Housing Program at our Mather Community Campus. Full-time employees (working 30 or more hours a week) are eligible for a benefits package that includes paid holidays, vacation, sick pay, health, dental, vision, life, and short-term disability insurance coverage. 

POSITION SUMMARY:

This position is responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining a case management plan to assist the program’s clients with accessing continuing education, employment, and addressing any bio, psychological, social issues that may lead to homelessness, criminal behavior, or otherwise non-productive lifestyles. The position is also responsible for providing life skills training.

OBJECTIVES/ACTIVITIES:

A. Direct service

1. Conduct needs assessments on all clients upon entry and provide evaluation of medical, physical, emotional, psychological and legal needs.
2. Provide financial planning, education, budgeting and assistance with managing credit and a bank account.
3. Coordinate employment options, coordinate educational options, coordinate recovery options for substance abuse or mental illness or any other special needs.
4. Develop and conduct living skills training and education, individually and in groups.
5. Coordinate transportation needs which sometimes include escorting/transporting clients.
6. Provide individual and group counseling.
7. Assist in securing all viable income sources.
8. Facilitate recreational activities.
9. Provide crisis intervention and management as needed.
10. Provide aftercare services as needed for up to one year after discharge.
11. The ability to integrate trauma informed practices.

B. Indirect service

1. Liaison between clients and community service agencies to meet client needs.
2. Maintain a list of all available community services and providers.
3. Assure a safe, non-judgmental environment for the clients.
4. Maintain positive, professional relationships with clients and staff.
5. Participate in agency and outside training sessions.

C. Recordkeeping and communication

1. Maintain files on each participant which will include psych-social information, short- and long-term plans to maintain and improve self-sufficiency.
2. Document progress and assistance in removing obstacles to set goals. Provide routine documentation of coordination and follow-up of all areas.
3. Provide records and services in compliance with agency policies, regulatory and funding source requirements.
4. Maintain daily, clear and thorough communication with the Program Supervisor on all areas of responsibility listed in this job description.

D. Other

1. Perform other reasonable related duties as assigned by Program Manager
2. Provide emergency shift coverage when necessary.

EQUIVALENT EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

A Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work or a related field is preferred. This position requires two years of successful experience in the delivery of human services or any combination of education, training and experience, which would provide the knowledge and ability to complete the duties outlined above. This position requires demonstrated ability in record keeping, good written and verbal communication skills, knowledge of problems unique to young adults, minorities, persons with disabilities, substance abuse, and the general foster youth population. Valid California driver's license and ability to meet the organization’s insurance carrier guidelines are required. Must pass all required background clearances in accordance with agency, County, State, and federal standards. CPR/First Aid certification is required within 90 days of employment. Completion and maintenance of all required training and health clearances.

SPECIFIC SKILLS REQUIRED:

Excellent oral and written communication skills
Critical thinking, analyzing information, and making reasonable decisions Skilled in Microsoft 365 computer applications
Excellent organizational skills
Fluency in English, legible handwriting, skills in record-keeping
Ability to de-escalate crises and assist residents and staff in emergencies

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, and stoop throughout the workday
Ability to occasionally lift and move up to 25 pounds
Ability to travel between campus and community locations as needed
Able to climb stairs as required