The Youth Development Coordinator (YDC) reports to the Director of the Youth Development Program. They provide a range of age-appropriate case management services for youth with experience in the DCF foster care system. The YDC helps youth achieve an appropriate level of community functioning to ensure a successful transition to adulthood.
The YDC will achieve this goal by assessing and assisting youth in identifying their goals; developing a strengths-based plan of care to help them meet their goals; and supporting youth with identifying life-long connections and support. Case management services will emphasize accessing housing, jobs, education, and the development of strong ties with natural support networks, including families, local community organizations, and other significant adults.
This is a full time exempt position with an annual salary of $50,000.00 and offers a robust benefits package including health, HRA, dental, vision, life insurance, STD, LTD, accrued vacation, accrued health leave, and a 403(b) retirement plan.
Essential Functions
- Maintain a case load, providing direct services and service coordination to 25 youth monthly
- Maintain appropriate and timely documentation in client files, complete monthly data reporting, maintain up-to-date client list, and provide other program information as requested
- Assist clients in developing an individualized comprehensive treatment plan
- Engage in outreach to youth, families, and other service providers to coordinate services
- Provide case management including efforts to:
- Assist youth in identifying their goals
- Conduct formal assessment of the youth’s preparation for adulthood
- Assist youth in developing a plan that uses their strengths to help them meet their goals
- Assist youth in attaining sustainable employment
- Assist youth in identifying their goals to complete secondary education and prepare, enroll, and complete post-secondary education
- Assist youth in accessing and maintaining affordable housing
- Assist youth in accessing health care
- Assist youth in identifying and developing lifelong connections and support from caring adults
- Support youth to access available Extended Care and Youth Investment Grant funds to assist them with housing costs, incidental living needs, and other transitional support as needed
- Support opportunities for youth to participate in community service and leadership activities, including the state Youth Advisory Board
- Attend monthly network meetings with statewide YDCs
- Access motivational interviewing and other evidence-based approaches to inform treatment
- Actively support diversity, equity, and cultural competency efforts by participating in ongoing training and professional development
Knowledge and Skills Required
Bachelor's degree in social work or related field required
One yera of experience working with adolescent and young adults
Commitment to the value of diversity with respect to gender, race, age, socio-ecomominc level, sexual orientation, and religion
Knowledge of adolescent and young adult development
- The ability to build trust and rapport with adolescents
- Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
- Skill in coordinating services with other agencies and professionals
- The ability to utilize supervision by asking for assistance, support and training, and accepting and utilizing feedback
- Ability to manage time and set priorities to accomplish tasks and meet deadlines, including the ability to adapt to changing priorities
- Ability to work independently and also as an effective team member
Work Environment
This is a field position and frequent travel is required, including client transport. Reliable transportation and comprehensive insurance is required. May require sitting, standing, general use of stairs, and lifting or moving up to 10 pounds.
The above duties and responsibilities describe the general nature and level of work performed in this job. They should not be construed as an exhaustive listing of all job duties and responsibilities.
