Youth Shelter Support Staff - Part Time

Be the steady presence a teen needs when the world feels unsteady.

At Crosswalk, part of Volunteers of America (VOA), we believe no young person should face homelessness alone. Every night of the year, we open our doors — and our hearts — to youth ages 13–17 navigating trauma, uncertainty, or crisis. Our shelter isn’t just a place to sleep. It’s a place where young people find dignity, safety, and hope.

We’re looking for compassionate, dependable, and calm individuals to join our overnight team and help create a safe space for youth during their most vulnerable hours.

What You’ll Do

• Be a trusted, stable presence while youth rest and recharge.
   
• Ensure basic needs are met — from meals and hygiene supplies to emotional support.
   
• Engage youth in meaningful, trauma-informed interactions that promote trust and healing.
   
• Conduct intake and orientation processes for youth entering the shelter overnight.
   
• Accurately document observations, youth interactions, and behavior changes in a timely and confidential manner.
   
• Collaborate closely with case managers and behavioral health staff to support individualized service plans.
   
• Help maintain a clean, calm, and welcoming shelter space.
   
• De-escalate conflict and respond to crises with empathy and care.
   
• Model respectful, nonjudgmental behavior and communication.
   
• Uphold confidentiality, safety, and consistency at all times.

What You Bring

• A heart for working with vulnerable youth, no matter where they are in their journey.
   
• High School Diploma or GED/HSEC.
   
• At least 1 year of experience working directly with youth or 2 years of relevant education.
   
• Comfort engaging in sensitive conversations with empathy and boundaries.
   
• The ability to stay calm, clear-headed, and communicative overnight.
   
• Openness to learning and growing in a trauma-informed, culturally responsive environment.
   

Additional Requirements

• Must be 21+ years old (per program licensing).
   
• Pass a required background check through DCYF.
   
• Willingness to complete training and obtain certifications (we’ll help!):
   
  • CPR/First Aid/Bloodborne Pathogens
     
  • Food Handler’s Permit
     
  • TB test and immunization verification
     
  • Agency Affiliated Counselor (AAC) credential (application within 30 days of hire)
     

Preferred Experience:

• Positive Youth Development (PYD)
   
• Trauma-Informed Care practices
   
• Experience supporting marginalized or high-needs populations
   
• Background in Psychology, Social Work, or related fields
   

Why Work With Us?

• You'll make a direct and lasting impact on teens in crisis.
   
• Be part of a diverse, inclusive team that lifts each other up.
   
• Develop skills in crisis response, youth development, behavioral documentation, and trauma-informed care.
   
• Work for an organization that values your growth and well-being.
   

Come as you are.
We believe diversity makes us stronger. We welcome people of all backgrounds, identities, and life experiences, and celebrate what makes you you.