Life Skills Specialist

I. PURPOSE/FUNCTION OF PROGRAM:

The Launch Program is a community- based program that will provide support comprised of both life skill assessments and learning modules. Skill building interventions will improve vocational and educational outcomes while developing and maintaining strong permanent supportive adult relationships. The program will serve young people ages 14-17, who are committed to DCF. 

II. POSITION SUMMARY:

The Life Skill Specialist (LSS) provides educational, vocational and employment preparedness services as outlined through the Launch Program. This position helps to prepare young with the supports necessary to embed the basic soft and hard skills necessary to become successful citizens within their community and labor/work force. In addition this position will assist the youth in meeting objectives in the following areas: daily living, self- care, effective communication, navigating the child welfare system, civic engagement, money management, relationship building, and life- long supportive adult connections.   

III. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provides direct case management and support in goal achievement for a caseload of 10 youth
• Responsible for maintaining documentation, paperwork and record keeping in accordance with state, federal and BGV policies
• Develop, implement, and review service plans for each youth ensuring that the goals/objectives are reflected in daily/ weekly activities
• Participate in the program’s planning, implementation, and ongoing review to encourage development growth
• Provide life skills assessment and training as well as job readiness and vocational training, in both individual and group settings
• Support and supervise youth efforts in establishing and maintaining an active youth board
• Manage referrals once assigned
• Be familiar with and implement all program policies and procedures
• Complete all required DCF and BGV trainings
• Support youth in obtaining services to meet educational, housing and employment services in the community
• Collaborate with community resources to provide clients with internships, training, and employment opportunities as well as volunteer and recreational opportunities
• Attends individual and group supervision 
• Completes all necessary reporting to DCF and other licensing or regulatory agency as required
• Ensures Risk Management and DCF are notified of any allegations of abuse and/or neglect
• Participates as required in statewide initiatives, groups or meetings as related to program
• Create and maintain a clean, orderly work environment
• Carries out all additional assignments as directed

IV. ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS/SKILLS:

• Bachelor’s degree in a behavioral health related field such as social work, counseling, human services in addition to 3 years related work experience
• Previous experience working with difficult to engage or vulnerable youth
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
• Familiarity with local community and its resources

V. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bilingual (Spanish)
• Knowledge of cultural diversity and childhood development.
• Experience with vocational services

VI. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• None

VII. PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Must be able to travel to a variety of settings
• Must be able to climb a flight of stairs

VIII. WORKING CONDITIONS AND ENVIRONMENT:

• Flexible work schedule, some evenings and some weekends 
• Ability to be available by phone during non-regular working hours
• Must have valid driver’s license and clean driving record