Employment

Young Parent Support Counselor

Job Description

Job Title:        Young Parent Support Counselor
Department:   Parent & Youth Services

Reports to:     Director of Parent & Youth Services 

Schedule:       Full time, 37.5 hours/week

                     Monday—Friday, with flexibility to meet program needs including                      some evening/weekend services

FLSA Status:               Non-Exempt

Starting Rate:            $16.00/hour

The YWCA of Western Massachusetts is a nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating racism and empowering women. We do this through a variety of services that support all people who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assault or intimate partner abuse, strengthen relationships between parents and children, and build skills for employment and self-sufficiency.

Expectations of all employees

In the performance of essential and general job responsibilities, all YWCA employees are expected to:

• Demonstrate commitment to the YWCA’s mission and principles of trauma-informed work.
• Represent the YWCA in a professional and competent manner to participants, community members, organizational partners, and others.
• Perform quality work within program guidelines and deadlines.
• Work effectively as a team contributor and foster a positive working environment.
• Work independently while understanding the need for communication and coordinating work efforts with other employees and organizations.
• Maintain professional behavior and strict confidentiality.

Position Purpose

The Young Parent Support Counselor provides home visiting and case management services to pregnant and/or parenting young families (through age 23), in Springfield, Chicopee, and Holyoke, to support them achieve goals in areas such as parenting skills, child development, educational or career goals, health, social connections and meeting basic needs. The Young Parent Support Counselor will also conduct community outreach to collaborate with other organizations and generate referrals to the program, and provide group and/or individual services in area high schools and other community-based settings.

Essential Responsibilities

• Provide outreach, case management and home visiting to young parents (mothers and fathers) to assist them in parenting, relationship skills, and life management.
• Maintain a caseload of 15-20 participants.

• Conduct initial and periodic assessments of each family to determine the appropriate level of services.
• Complete and collect documentation and data required by funder, including but not limited to developmental screening, literacy screening, and mental health/substance abuse screening.
• Maintain accurate and timely (within 2 business days of service) documentation for each family served, including paper and electronic records.
• Conduct group and individual services in area high schools and other community-based settings, when appropriate.
• Conduct community outreach to collaborate with other organizations and generate referrals to the program.
• Meet deadlines for case management, billing and reporting.
• Attend required supervision, staff meetings and trainings.
• Perform other duties as necessary.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in early childhood development or related fields such as social work, human services or community health, or equivalent professional experience.
• Bilingual (Spanish and English) preferred.
• Experience with and knowledge of accessing resources within the community.
• Excellent verbal, written, and organizational skills, including strong computer skills.
• Must be able to lift 40 lbs.
• Access to reliable transportation and valid driver’s license required. Must be able to be covered by the agency's insurance policy.

EEO STATEMENT:

It is the policy of YWCA of Western Massachusetts to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, the YWCA will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

DISCLAIMER: 

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position.

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS:

The YWCA, in our effort to provide safety to those we serve, and to protect our agency, performs criminal offender record information (CORI) checks on all prospective employees. Final offers of employment are contingent upon receipt of an acceptable CORI report as solely determined by the YWCA.  

INTRODUCTORY PERIOD:

All employment at the YWCA begins with a 120-day Introductory Period.

ACTIVE JOB POSTING:

This job posting for employment shall be considered active through September 22, 2017.

Salary:             $16 per hour

Hours:             30 hours per week

The YWCA of Western Massachusetts is a nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating racism and empowering women. We do this through a variety of services that support all people who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assault or intimate partner abuse, strengthen relationships between parents and children, and build skills for employment and self-sufficiency.

Expectations of all employees:

• In the performance of essential and general job responsibilities, all YWCA employees are expected to:
• Demonstrate commitment to the YWCA’s mission and principles of trauma-informed work.
• Represent the YWCA in a professional and competent manner to participants, community members, organizational partners, and others.
• Perform quality work within program guidelines and deadlines.
• Work effectively as a team contributor and foster a positive working environment.
• Work independently while understanding the need for communication and coordinating work efforts with other employees and organizations.
• Maintain professional behavior and strict confidentiality.

Position Purpose:

The WIOA Case Manager provides asset based workforce development programming to young adults 17-24.  This individual is responsible for assisting participants in meeting their career and educational goals through the provision case management supports that focuses on the 14 key elements as defined by WIOA that are a predicator to young adult success and transition to independence.   The Case Manager provides supportive services, basic skills training, employment, mentoring, support in completion of high school equivalency degree, and active follow-up services.

Qualifications: 

• B.A. in Human Services or equivalent education; BSW preferred.
• 3 years related experience working with young adults with minimum of 2 years experience in providing workforce development supports.
• CPR/First Aid (must be completed within 3 months of hire).
• Experience with Greater Springfield area employers and an understanding of job development principals and application.
• Knowledge of workforce development system’s programs, regulations and procedures required.
• Experience with and an ability to teach workforce development curriculum and life skills curriculum in a group setting.
• Excellent interpersonal and problem-solving skill.
• Understanding of adolescent development and issues confronting youth living with lower incomes in high-risk environments.
• Knowledge of an experience with Positive Youth Development approach and programs.
• Knowledge of Springfield area human service, health, court and criminal justice systems.
• Ability to work as part of a team.
• Must have access to reliable transportation, have a safe driving record, and be able to travel throughout Hampden County.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.

Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Recruitment, application, and enrollment activities for the WIOA youth program.
• Provide case management support for a caseload of up to 20 active participants and 15 follow-up participants through regular meetings that provide career coaching and assessment.
• Assist participants with becoming aware of strengths and needs that will facilitate the development of life skills that will assist them in achieving their educational and occupational goals.
• Provide programmatic support, referrals, crisis intervention services, and coordinate referrals to all systems that will address participant barriers to success.
• Co-facilitate employment readiness curriculum workshops and skill building activities as required and support youth engagement in these activities.
• Develop and implement the Individual Service Strategy, complete goal setting activities and forms, and all other WIOA documentation as required by the Regional Employment Board.
• Develop participant leadership skills and provide leadership opportunities when possible.
• Promote and develop subsidized employment opportunities for participants engaged in the WIOA program.
• Maintain systems to consistently and accurately track participant and internship site paperwork, program reporting, participant files, and program process.
• Represent the YWCA’s Workforce Development Programs at funder, networking, and collaborator meetings, as assigned.
• Monitor measurable outcomes and provide programming that will assist with meeting WIOA contractual obligations.
• Communicate daily and work as a team with supervisor and other Workforce Development staff to achieve continuous quality improvement.
• Participate in the planning, development, and coordination of Workforce Development activities with the YWCA’s Workforce Development team.
• Attend all required staff meetings, development meetings, training, and contractual meetings.
• Other responsibilities as assigned by supervisor or designee.

EEO STATEMENT:

It is the policy of YWCA of Western Massachusetts to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, the YWCA will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

DISCLAIMER:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position.

 CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS:

The YWCA, in our effort to provide safety to those we serve, and to protect our agency, performs criminal offender record information (CORI) checks on all prospective employees. Final offers of employment are contingent upon receipt of an acceptable CORI report as solely determined by the YWCA. 

INTRODUCTORY PERIOD:

All employment at the YWCA begins with a 120-day Introductory Period.

Summary: 

The Direct Service Advocate (DSA) is responsible for providing support, advocacy and role modeling to adult, teen and child program participants living in the YWCA’s residential programs. DSA’s are part of a team model working with peers, supervisors, clinicians and outside connections to best serve program participants. DSA’s support the agency mission and trauma informed service model in order to provide safe, consistent and quality services to vulnerable populations.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Nurture and support a milieu approach that is participant-guided, family-driven, strengths-based, trauma-informed and embraces a framework of empowerment and encouragement, engaging with 100% of individuals and families that are on-site each shift

• Encourage and support the development of life skills, positive parenting and improved parent-child interaction- 1:1 or group format to include recreational, educational, cultural or those that promote family engagement (3x per week for TPP DSA and minimally once weekly for NB and DVSS DSA)

• Follow and encourage the programs daily schedule and facilitate resident participation and community responsibilities, taking into account individualized plans for each participant

• Ongoing individual resident support with 85% of time on shift in direct service role providing face to face contact and interaction with participant’s and their children in order to support

• Ensure program procedures, rules, regulations and policies are followed to ensure a safe and supportive living environment including completion of 100% of all required safety sweeps (minimum of four times) each shift to ensure premises including alarms, doors, windows, appliances and bedrooms are all safe

• To facilitate integration into the program, provide orientation and emotional support to participants upon arrival and complete intake paperwork with 100% of participants within 24 hours of arrival \

• To ensure participants are properly welcomed to the program, prepares rooms for new families within 1-2 shifts from previous exit.

• Provide daily information as it relates to data collection and outcome measurements through the completion of 100% of Client Track Services logs prior to end of shift

• Required documentation and daily program communication including case notes, resident files and communication logs, completing 100% of all documentation prior to the end of shift.

• Perform regular job duties to be observed by new staff during the job shadowing portion of program orientation.

• Engage with residents at 100% of all meal times and ensure that participants clean up the dining area prior to leaving as well as kitchen prior to cooking.

• Ensure thorough communication of staff from shift to shift

• Assist with child care as needed to support service planning goal activities completion

• To support children’s safety and well-being, ensure mothers supervise children at all times and offer support to moms during a crisis or periods where they may be overwhelmed

• Conducts safety checks on residents and children as needed and completes 100% of all required safety checks

• Answer phones and provide information and referral; answer hotline as needed (DVSS DSA’s only)

• Attend scheduled staff meetings, supervision and trainings as required

• Responsible for maintenance and upkeep of the facility and property (including, but not limited to:  vacuuming, laundry, loading/unloading groceries, shoveling, raking, mopping, preparation of bedrooms) including ensuring 100% of chores were completed properly before signing off on the chore list.

• Provide transportation to residents and adhere to all safety laws/policies regarding seat belts, car seat requirements and speed limits at all times to include ratio of 1:5 (ratio applies to TPP only)

• Complete 100% of urine screen collections on designated days for collection assigned by DCS.(applies to NB DSA only)

• Perform other related duties as needed 

Additional Overnight Direct Service Advocate Responsibilities:

• Responsible for consistent monitoring of building for safety and security

• Responsible for well-checks on all residents throughout the night following handbook procedures

• In order to determine program effectiveness and impact, enter 100% of enrollments, exits and services into Client Track daily  

• Maintain 1:10 staff  to child ratio at all times (TPP DSA’s only)

Job Title:                    Intake Coordinator/Visit Monitor
Department:                         Supervised Visitation

Reports to:                Supervised Visitation Direct Care Supervisor

Schedule:                  Full time, 37.5 hours/week

Monday, 9:00 - 5:00

Tuesday-Thursday, 10:30 - 6:30

Friday 9:00 - 5:00,

with flexibility to meet program needs

FLSA Status:               Non-Exempt

Starting Rate:            $16.00/hour

Posted Date:             September 7, 2017

The YWCA of Western Massachusetts is a nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating racism and empowering women. We do this through a variety of services that support all people who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assault or intimate partner abuse, strengthen relationships between parents and children, and build skills for employment and self-sufficiency.

Expectations of all employees

In the performance of essential and general job responsibilities, all YWCA employees are expected to:

• Demonstrate commitment to the YWCA’s mission and principles of trauma-informed work.
• Represent the YWCA in a professional and competent manner to participants, community members, organizational partners, and others.
• Perform quality work within program guidelines and deadlines.
• Work effectively as a team contributor and foster a positive working environment.
• Work independently while understanding the need for communication and coordinating work efforts with other employees and organizations.
• Maintain professional behavior and strict confidentiality.

Position Purpose

The Intake Coordinator/Visit Monitor processes referrals to the Supervised Visitation program, and will monitor supervised visits. The Supervised Visitation Program allows parents in high conflict or high risk situations, as a result of domestic violence, to have access to their child(ren) in a safe and supervised environment. The non-custodial parent has access to the child(ren) only when supervised by a trained visitation monitor. The program operates sites in Springfield and Northampton.

Essential Responsibilities

• Process referrals to the program, including but not limited to creating new files in the agency database, completing required paperwork, scheduling intakes, and managing waiting list, and arranging for site tours prior to first visit.
• Create written reports when requested by the court or other authorized referral sources.
• Monitor supervised visits, ensuring all program participants are abiding by current policies and procedures.
• Coordinate services and make appropriate referrals to other services in the community.
• Document services in accordance with current program practices.
• Attend supervision and team meetings, as required.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in fields such as social work, human services or community health, or equivalent professional experience.
• Bilingual (Spanish and English) preferred.
• Experience with and knowledge of accessing resources within the community.
• Excellent verbal, written, and organizational skills, including strong computer skills.
• Must be able to lift 40 lbs.
• Access to reliable transportation and valid driver’s license required. Must be able to be covered by the agency's insurance policy.

EEO STATEMENT:

It is the policy of YWCA of Western Massachusetts to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, the YWCA will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

DISCLAIMER:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position.

AT-WILL EMPLOYMENT:

The YWCA is an “at-will” equal opportunity employer. While the YWCA will continue to operate with care regarding employment decisions, the YWCA and its employees may terminate the employment relationship at any time and for any reason, with or without cause, and without advance notice. Exceptions include non-exempt positions.

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS:

The YWCA, in our effort to provide safety to those we serve, and to protect our agency, performs criminal offender record information (CORI) checks on all prospective employees. Final offers of employment are contingent upon receipt of an acceptable CORI report as solely determined by the YWCA.  

INTRODUCTORY PERIOD:

All employment at the YWCA begins with a 120-day Introductory Period.

ACTIVE JOB POSTING:

This job posting for employment shall be considered active through September 29, 2017.

Summary: 

The Direct Service Advocate (DSA) is responsible for providing support, advocacy and role modeling to adult, teen and child program participants living in the YWCA’s residential programs. DSA’s are part of a team model working with peers, supervisors, clinicians and outside connections to best serve program participants. DSA’s support the agency mission and trauma informed service model in order to provide safe, consistent and quality services to vulnerable populations.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Nurture and support a milieu approach that is participant-guided, family-driven, strengths-based, trauma-informed and embraces a framework of empowerment and encouragement, engaging with 100% of individuals and families that are on-site each shift
• Encourage and support the development of life skills, positive parenting and improved parent-child interaction- 1:1 or group format to include recreational, educational, cultural or those that promote family engagement (3x per week for TPP DSA and minimally once weekly for NB and DVSS DSA)
• Follow and encourage the programs daily schedule and facilitate resident participation and community responsibilities, taking into account individualized plans for each participant
• Ongoing individual resident support with 85% of time on shift in direct service role providing face to face contact and interaction with participant’s and their children in order to support
• Ensure program procedures, rules, regulations and policies are followed to ensure a safe and supportive living environment including completion of 100% of all required safety sweeps (minimum of four times) each shift to ensure premises including alarms, doors, windows, appliances and bedrooms are all safe
• To facilitate integration into the program, provide orientation and emotional support to participants upon arrival and complete intake paperwork with 100% of participants within 24 hours of arrival
• To ensure participants are properly welcomed to the program, prepares rooms for new families within 1-2 shifts from previous exit.
• Provide daily information as it relates to data collection and outcome measurements through the completion of 100% of Client Track Services logs prior to end of shift
• Required documentation and daily program communication including case notes, resident files and communication logs, completing 100% of all documentation prior to the end of shift.
• Perform regular job duties to be observed by new staff during the job shadowing portion of program orientation.
• Engage with residents at 100% of all meal times and ensure that participants clean up the dining area prior to leaving as well as kitchen prior to cooking.
• Ensure thorough communication of staff from shift to shift
• Assist with child care as needed to support service planning goal activities completion
• To support children’s safety and well-being, ensure mothers supervise children at all times and offer support to moms during a crisis or periods where they may be overwhelmed
• Conducts safety checks on residents and children as needed and completes 100% of all required safety checks
• Answer phones and provide information and referral; answer hotline as needed (DVSS DSA’s only)
• Attend scheduled staff meetings, supervision and trainings as required
• Responsible for maintenance and upkeep of the facility and property (including, but not limited to:  vacuuming, laundry, loading/unloading groceries, shoveling, raking, mopping, preparation of bedrooms) including ensuring 100% of chores were completed properly before signing off on the chore list.
• Provide transportation to residents and adhere to all safety laws/policies regarding seat belts, car seat requirements and speed limits at all times to include ratio of 1:5 (ratio applies to TPP only)
• Complete 100% of urine screen collections on designated days for collection assigned by DCS.(applies to NB DSA only)
• Perform other related duties as needed

Additional Overnight Direct Service Advocate Responsibilities:

• Responsible for consistent monitoring of building for safety and security
• Responsible for well-checks on all residents throughout the night following handbook procedures
• In order to determine program effectiveness and impact, enter 100% of enrollments, exits and services into Client Track daily 
• Maintain 1:10 staff  to child ratio at all times (TPP DSA’s only)
• Adhere to awake overnight requirements

DVSS Kitchen Responsibilities:

• Weekend meal planning with input from program cook
• Meal preparation, clean-up and proper storage of food for weekend lunches and dinners
• Provide nutritional options for residents with dietary restrictions as stated in Resident's Kitchen Survey
• Record menu items with cooked, cold and holding temperatures in food temperature log 2 times per meal (when food comes out of the oven and when served).
• Assist program cook with maintenance and cleaning of kitchen, food storage areas and appliances.
• Assist Program Cook with food inventory, product storage and organization
• Assist with answering doors as needed

Technical Skills: 

• Minimum HS diploma with experience in human services; Associates Degree preferred
• Residential direct service experience preferred
• Ability to work with individuals and families from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective
• Excellent interpersonal and problem-solving skills
• Must be able to work effectively as part of a team.
• Experience working with diverse populations required.
• Must have a valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle and a telephone.
• Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs.

Summary: 

The Direct Service Advocate (DSA) is responsible for providing support, advocacy and role modeling to adult, teen and child program participants living in the YWCA’s residential programs. DSA’s are part of a team model working with peers, supervisors, clinicians and outside connections to best serve program participants. DSA’s support the agency mission and trauma informed service model in order to provide safe, consistent and quality services to vulnerable populations.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Nurture and support a milieu approach that is participant-guided, family-driven, strengths-based, trauma-informed and embraces a framework of empowerment and encouragement, engaging with 100% of individuals and families that are on-site each shift
• Encourage and support the development of life skills, positive parenting and improved parent-child interaction- 1:1 or group format to include recreational, educational, cultural or those that promote family engagement (3x per week for TPP DSA and minimally once weekly for NB and DVSS DSA)
• Follow and encourage the programs daily schedule and facilitate resident participation and community responsibilities, taking into account individualized plans for each participant
• Ongoing individual resident support with 85% of time on shift in direct service role providing face to face contact and interaction with participant’s and their children in order to support
• Ensure program procedures, rules, regulations and policies are followed to ensure a safe and supportive living environment including completion of 100% of all required safety sweeps (minimum of four times) each shift to ensure premises including alarms, doors, windows, appliances and bedrooms are all safe
• To facilitate integration into the program, provide orientation and emotional support to participants upon arrival and complete intake paperwork with 100% of participants within 24 hours of arrival
• To ensure participants are properly welcomed to the program, prepares rooms for new families within 1-2 shifts from previous exit.
• Provide daily information as it relates to data collection and outcome measurements through the completion of 100% of Client Track Services logs prior to end of shift
• Required documentation and daily program communication including case notes, resident files and communication logs, completing 100% of all documentation prior to the end of shift.
• Perform regular job duties to be observed by new staff during the job shadowing portion of program orientation.
• Engage with residents at 100% of all meal times and ensure that participants clean up the dining area prior to leaving as well as kitchen prior to cooking.
• Ensure thorough communication of staff from shift to shift
• Assist with child care as needed to support service planning goal activities completion
• To support children’s safety and well-being, ensure mothers supervise children at all times and offer support to moms during a crisis or periods where they may be overwhelmed
• Conducts safety checks on residents and children as needed and completes 100% of all required safety checks
• Answer phones and provide information and referral; answer hotline as needed (DVSS DSA’s only)
• Attend scheduled staff meetings, supervision and trainings as required
• Responsible for maintenance and upkeep of the facility and property (including, but not limited to:  vacuuming, laundry, loading/unloading groceries, shoveling, raking, mopping, preparation of bedrooms) including ensuring 100% of chores were completed properly before signing off on the chore list.
• Provide transportation to residents and adhere to all safety laws/policies regarding seat belts, car seat requirements and speed limits at all times to include ratio of 1:5 (ratio applies to TPP only)
• Complete 100% of urine screen collections on designated days for collection assigned by DCS.(applies to NB DSA only)
• Perform other related duties as needed

Additional Overnight Direct Service Advocate Responsibilities:

• Responsible for consistent monitoring of building for safety and security
• Responsible for well-checks on all residents throughout the night following handbook procedures
• In order to determine program effectiveness and impact, enter 100% of enrollments, exits and services into Client Track daily 
• Maintain 1:10 staff  to child ratio at all times (TPP DSA’s only)
• Adhere to awake overnight requirements

The Direct Service Advocate (DSA) is responsible for providing support, advocacy and role modeling to adult, teen and child program participants living in the YWCA’s residential programs. DSA’s are part of a team model working with peers, supervisors, clinicians and outside connections to best serve program participants. DSA’s support the agency mission and trauma informed service model in order to provide safe, consistent and quality services to vulnerable populations.

Summary: 

The Direct Service Advocate (DSA) is responsible for providing support, advocacy and role modeling to adult, teen and child program participants living in the YWCA’s residential programs. DSA’s are part of a team model working with peers, supervisors, clinicians and outside connections to best serve program participants. DSA’s support the agency mission and trauma informed service model in order to provide safe, consistent and quality services to vulnerable populations.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Nurture and support a milieu approach that is participant-guided, family-driven, strengths-based, trauma-informed and embraces a framework of empowerment and encouragement, engaging with 100% of individuals and families that are on-site each shift
• Encourage and support the development of life skills, positive parenting and improved parent-child interaction- 1:1 or group format to include recreational, educational, cultural or those that promote family engagement (3x per week for TPP DSA and minimally once weekly for NB and DVSS DSA)
• Follow and encourage the programs daily schedule and facilitate resident participation and community responsibilities, taking into account individualized plans for each participant
• Ongoing individual resident support with 85% of time on shift in direct service role providing face to face contact and interaction with participant’s and their children in order to support
• Ensure program procedures, rules, regulations and policies are followed to ensure a safe and supportive living environment including completion of 100% of all required safety sweeps (minimum of four times) each shift to ensure premises including alarms, doors, windows, appliances and bedrooms are all safe
• To facilitate integration into the program, provide orientation and emotional support to participants upon arrival and complete intake paperwork with 100% of participants within 24 hours of arrival
• To ensure participants are properly welcomed to the program, prepares rooms for new families within 1-2 shifts from previous exit.
• Provide daily information as it relates to data collection and outcome measurements through the completion of 100% of Client Track Services logs prior to end of shift
• Required documentation and daily program communication including case notes, resident files and communication logs, completing 100% of all documentation prior to the end of shift.
• Perform regular job duties to be observed by new staff during the job shadowing portion of program orientation.
• Engage with residents at 100% of all meal times and ensure that participants clean up the dining area prior to leaving as well as kitchen prior to cooking.
• Ensure thorough communication of staff from shift to shift
• Assist with child care as needed to support service planning goal activities completion
• To support children’s safety and well-being, ensure mothers supervise children at all times and offer support to moms during a crisis or periods where they may be overwhelmed
• Conducts safety checks on residents and children as needed and completes 100% of all required safety checks
• Answer phones and provide information and referral; answer hotline as needed (DVSS DSA’s only)
• Attend scheduled staff meetings, supervision and trainings as required
• Responsible for maintenance and upkeep of the facility and property (including, but not limited to:  vacuuming, laundry, loading/unloading groceries, shoveling, raking, mopping, preparation of bedrooms) including ensuring 100% of chores were completed properly before signing off on the chore list.
• Provide transportation to residents and adhere to all safety laws/policies regarding seat belts, car seat requirements and speed limits at all times to include ratio of 1:5 (ratio applies to TPP only)
• Complete 100% of urine screen collections on designated days for collection assigned by DCS.(applies to NB DSA only)
• Perform other related duties as needed

Additional Overnight Direct Service Advocate Responsibilities:

• Responsible for consistent monitoring of building for safety and security
• Responsible for well-checks on all residents throughout the night following handbook procedures
• In order to determine program effectiveness and impact, enter 100% of enrollments, exits and services into Client Track daily 
• Maintain 1:10 staff  to child ratio at all times (TPP DSA’s only)
• Adhere to awake overnight requirements

DVSS Kitchen Responsibilities:

• Weekend meal planning with input from program cook
• Meal preparation, clean-up and proper storage of food for weekend lunches and dinners
• Provide nutritional options for residents with dietary restrictions as stated in Resident's Kitchen Survey
• Record menu items with cooked, cold and holding temperatures in food temperature log 2 times per meal (when food comes out of the oven and when served).
• Assist program cook with maintenance and cleaning of kitchen, food storage areas and appliances.
• Assist Program Cook with food inventory, product storage and organization
• Assist with answering doors as needed

Technical Skills: 

• Minimum HS diploma with experience in human services; Associates Degree preferred
• Residential direct service experience preferred
• Ability to work with individuals and families from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective
• Excellent interpersonal and problem-solving skills
• Must be able to work effectively as part of a team.
• Experience working with diverse populations required.
• Must have a valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle and a telephone.
• Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs.

Job Title:          Youth Engagement Assistant
Department:   Parent & Youth Support Programs

Reports to:      Youth Project Director

Schedule: 15 hours per week based on programming / workshop schedule. Must have flexibility to conduct afterschool / evening workshops, and attend community outreach events typically on the weekends or evenings (as needed) on an ongoing basis. This is a grant-funded position through September 2018. Continuation is subject to the availability of grant funds.  

FLSA Status:     Non-Exempt

Starting Rate: $16.00/hour

Post Date:       September 12, 2017

The YWCA of Western Massachusetts is a nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating racism and empowering women. We do this through a variety of services that support all people who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assault or intimate partner abuse, strengthen relationships between parents and children, and build skills for employment and self-sufficiency.

EXPECTATIONS of ALL EMPLOYEES:

In the performance of essential and general job responsibilities, all YWCA employees are expected to:

• Demonstrate commitment to the YWCA’s mission and principles of trauma-informed work.
• Represent the YWCA in a professional and competent manner to participants, community members, organizational partners, and others.
• Perform quality work within program guidelines and deadlines.
• Work effectively as a team contributor and foster a positive working environment.
• Work independently while understanding the need for communication and coordinating work efforts with other employees and organizations.
• Maintain professional behavior and strict confidentiality.

POSITION PURPOSE:

The Youth Engagement Assistant will work to support the Springfield Youth Project’s meaningful engagement with Springfield youth and young adults (ages 13-24), especially young men and boys, through the facilitation of workshops and outreach activities focused around teen dating violence, intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and stalking. Springfield Youth Project is funded through the OVW (Office for Violence Against Women) Consolidated Youth Grant.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist in creation and implementation of informal workshop programming / curriculum for youth on topics including but not limited to: healthy relationships, masculinity, sexual identity, power structures, self-care, substance use, etc.
• Assist with the creation of a young men & boys youth group / support space.
• Assist in community outreach efforts throughout the Springfield community (attending community events, tabling, and distributing program information).
• Support the team’s efforts in the ongoing cultivation and facilitation of the Youth Advisory Board.
• Assist in the facilitation of primary prevention programming with adolescents in partnership with grant sub-contractors (i.e. Safe Dates workshops, among others).
• Assist in enhancing the program’s social media presence by creating Facebook content (wall posts, event listings, and answering messages/requests).
• Attend and participate in required meetings, including the project's Advisory Board; internal team meetings; and various community network meetings as needed.
• Perform other duties as necessary.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• There is no formal education requirement; instead candidates should have experience with workshop facilitation with both youth, and/or other relevant youth work.
• Preference is given to candidates who have teaching experience in public school settings.
• Bilingual (Spanish and English) preferred.
• Proven experience with Harm-Reduction, Positive Youth Development (PYD) and Trauma-Informed Care interventions and strategies when working with young people.
• Knowledge and proven experience in community organizing strategies.
• Experience in collaborating with multiple entities (non-profits, schools, and colleges).
• Comfortable and knowledgeable about intimate partner violence, and other issues.
• Experience using social networking platforms like Facebook for youth engagement.
• Ability to utilize multiple platforms to create outreach materials like flyers (i.e. Canva, Adobe Photoshop, etc.) and presentations (i.e. Prezi and Powerpoint).
• Excellent verbal, written, and organizational skills, including strong computer skills.
• Demonstrates an understanding and active commitment to issues of diversity and inclusion, especially around communities of color and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
• Access to reliable transportation and valid driver’s license required. Must be able to be covered by the agency's insurance policy.
• Must be able to lift 40 lbs.

EEO STATEMENT:

It is the policy of YWCA of Western Massachusetts to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, the YWCA will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

DISCLAIMER:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position.

AT-WILL EMPLOYMENT:

The YWCA is an “at-will” equal opportunity employer. While the YWCA will continue to operate with care regarding employment decisions, the YWCA and its employees may terminate the employment relationship at any time and for any reason, with or without cause, and without advance notice. Exceptions include non-exempt positions.

CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS:

The YWCA, in our effort to provide safety to those we serve, and to protect our agency, performs criminal offender record information (CORI) checks on all prospective employees. Final offers of employment are contingent upon receipt of an acceptable CORI report as solely determined by the YWCA.  

INTRODUCTORY PERIOD:

All employment at the YWCA begins with a 120-day Introductory Period.

ACTIVE JOB POSTING:

This job posting for employment shall be considered active through September 29, 2017.

Qualifications: 

• Minimum High school diploma with minimum 3 years relevant experience in human services field required;  Bachelor’s Degree preferred
• Must have prior experience working with victims of violence and/or those who have perpetrated violence in an intimate partner relationship
• Must have experience and knowledge of child development and impact of domestic violence on children
• Familiarity with court systems and legal issues affecting victims of domestic violence
• Must have excellent written and verbal communication and observational skills
• Must have demonstrated leadership qualities and ability to resolve conflict in appropriate ways
• Must have the ability to be a strong team player.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle required

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Coordinate visitation site staff, guards, volunteers and interns during visit times.
• Set up and closing of center to include setting up of rooms and cleaning up at end of the day
• Collection of fees and completion of fee report for each visit
• Ensure non-custodial parents are received 15 minutes before each visit and are waiting in designated area, supervised by guard; Ensure non-custodial parents are held back an additional 15 minutes at end of each visit
• Ensure safe transition of child from/to custodial to/from non-custodial parent at beginning and end of each visit
• Ensure monitors have all necessary information needed to conduct visits for each family
• Conduct monitoring and observation of non-custodial parent visits with his/her children, and keep detailed factual notes of what transpires during visit including direct quotes.
• Complete observation form for each family observed. Collect notes from all other monitors
• Interact in neutral manner with custodial parents and children, ensuring there is no discussion of any matters unrelated to the visit at hand.
• Model appropriate parenting behavior and encourage healthy parent child relationships
• Ensure parties are referred as necessary to outside referral sources for domestic violence, batterer’s treatment, counseling, financial assistance, etc.
• Responsible for knowing and enforcing center rules and policies, and make interventions as necessary.
• Communicate in a timely manner with Direct Care Supervisor on any incidents and issues; contact Director of Community-Based Domestic Violence Services if DCS is unavailable
• Check-in with Direct Care Supervisor at end of the visiting day
• Ensure that transportation of children at exchanges and visits adheres to all safety laws/policies regarding seat belts and car seat requirements and refuse to allow child to be transported unless law is being adhered to.
• Attend trainings and staff meetings as required.
• Relevant duties as needed.

The Intake Worker is responsible for answering the 24-hour Intake Line for Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services.  This position is also responsible for entering hotline statistics, intakes and other information into computer database. 

$16.00 per hour

The Direct Service Advocate (DSA) is responsible for providing support, advocacy and role modeling to adult, teen and child program participants living in the YWCA’s residential programs. DSA’s are part of a team model working with peers, supervisors, clinicians and outside connections to best serve program participants. DSA’s support the agency mission and trauma informed service model in order to provide safe, consistent and quality services to vulnerable populations.

$14.00 per hour