Youth Advocate

PhillyConnect Youth Advocate Program Overview The Youth/Mentor Advocate will serve as a Credible Messenger within the UYAI PhillyConnect Program, providing mentoring and advocacy-based interventions for justice-involved youth ages 13-18. The program's long-term goal is to transform attitudes and behaviors to reduce further involvement in the criminal justice system. Position Summary The Youth/Mentor Advocate leads weekly small-group sessions, one-on-one mentoring, and enrichment activities designed to support youth in their emotional, social, and professional development. This role works collaboratively with justice partners, families, and community organizations to ensure youth are fully supported throughout their program experience. Key Responsibilities Coordinate and collaborate with criminal justice partners to track youth progress toward their Individualized Achievement Plan (IAP). Conduct youth intake assessments and provide tailored, youth-centered mentorship. Provide direct advocacy and mentorship for 6 - 10 youth at a time. Serve as a key member of each youth's "family team" to foster self-esteem, socialization, and civic engagement. Make referrals and follow up with community partners to ensure comprehensive support services. Meet weekly with assigned youth (on-site and off-site). Conduct one-on-one off-site visits and home visits in collaboration with the Parent Coach. Attend referral appointments and/or court appointments related to supervised youth. Deliver curriculum in one-on-one and small group settings. Maintain accurate case notes and activity tracking in the client database. Provide 24/7 phone availability for youth support, guidance, and constructive feedback. Participate in ongoing training, supervision, team meetings, and case conferences. Develop and maintain partnerships with juvenile justice agencies, service providers, and community resources. Promote and advance the mission of UYAI PhillyConnect through professional networks. Monitor and report on program outcomes. Complete administrative documentation for funding, events, and program activities. Provide case management and group coordination as needed. Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications Education:

Associate's Degree required. Bachelor's Degree preferred

Experience:

Minimum 1 year working with youth ages 13-19 (Required) Minimum 2 years working with court-involved youth (Required) Experience using a client database (Preferred) Experience writing case notes (Preferred) Experience leading small group youth programming Experience utilizing Positive Youth Development models Experience working with Latino and African-American families Familiarity with Family Court and Supreme Court systems Program development experience (preferred) Fluency in Spanish (Preferred)

Additional Requirements:

Strong verbal and written communication skills Strong documentation and organizational skills Philadelphia residents strongly encouraged to apply Certified Behavioral Health Technician (Preferred) Individuals with lived experience in the justice system are welcome to apply Applicants familiar with Philadelphia or similar cities encouraged Required clearances: Medical clearance, Pennsylvania Criminal Background Check/In-State Criminal Background Current in-state Child Abuse History Certification FBI Criminal Background Check. Our Culture PhillyConnect is committed to: Supporting second chances for youth Community-centered solutions Respect, dignity, and accountability

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$16.25 - $24.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Tuition reimbursement Vision insurance People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Education:

Associate (Preferred)

Experience:

work with youth ages 13 -19: 1 year (Required) working with court-involved youth: 2 years (Required) using a client database: 1 year (Preferred) writing case notes: 1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:

Certified Behavioral Health Technician (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person