Youth Specialist, Supportive Services Position Available In Middlesex, Massachusetts

Summary:

Work closely with area college staff, community partners and SMOC staff to identify immediate and short-term needs to support housing stability. Provide street outreach, assessment and 1:1 support to the homeless young adult and unaccompanied young adult population in the MetroWest area. Work with clients to identify barriers to employment and supports needed to obtain and maintain employment. Develop relationships and linkages with local employers and cultivate jobs for youth and young adults served by SMOC and TEMPO.

Primary Responsibilities:

+ Engage all clients by understanding and addressing their needs whether within or outside the scope of work. + Work collaboratively with collateral providers including the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA), the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), the Department of Children and Families (DCF), the Department of Youth Services (DYS), Early Intervention, Legal Services, Behavioral Health Services (BHS), etc. to ensure coordination of services + Provide street outreach and implement engagement strategies with all new clients identified by college staff, community partners and SMOC. + Deliver identified services at homeless shelters, MetroWest area colleges and other community locations where participants may congregate. + Ensure coordination of service delivery on behalf of each client. Work in collaboration with all other service providers working with the participant . + Work collaboratively with the appropriate community members to identify clients who may need services. + Keep accurate client records and provide regular written notes including client updates, demographics, barriers and new resources, etc. + Assist individuals in accessing new resources and supports that may reduce engagement in high-risk behavior. + Attend & participate in all community partner and agency team meetings and communicate effectively with client and staff in all areas. + Maintain confidentiality of client, employee and agency information in accordance with federal and state laws and funder requirements. + Ensure compliance with program/department, agency and/or funder requirements, as well as, SMOC policies & procedures. + Assist client with filling out and gathering necessary documentation to request financial assistance. + Provide individual support to youth including job support, transportation barriers and housing support. + Other duties assigned

Knowledge and Skill Requirements:

+ Education and experience equivalent to an undergraduate degree in social services related field. + Demonstrated experience with youth and development of job related skills. + Experience providing vocational and educational supports + Ability to complete required documentation accurately and in a timely manner. + Ability to work effectively within a team. + Excellent communication skills both verbally and in writing. + Reliable transportation + Must have a valid Massachusetts driver’s license.

Organizational Relationship:

Directly reports to

Homeless Youth Program Director Physical Requirements:

Must be able to travel across the MetroWest area via personal vehicle. Must be able to sit or stand for a prolonged period. Must be able to operate a computer and complete extensive paperwork

Working Conditions:

As part of the responsibilities of this position, the Young Adult Supportive Services Specialist will have direct or incidental contact with clients served by SMOC in various programs funded or administered through the Executive Office of Health and Human Services. A successful background check is required. 9am-5pm ; Monday – Friday 35