Youth Advocate

Position Summary:

Excellent PTO, insurance, and retirement benefits! The Youth Advocate is responsible for the daily care, supervision, interaction and treatment of the shelter residents. Youth Advocates make a huge difference in children's lives and helps support our community in a very meaningful, rewarding way. If you're ready to make a difference, please apply!

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provides Supervision of daily care of residents while modeling advocacy and mentorship to each resident.
• Models and teaches accountability, respect, trust and appropriate behaviors relating to shelter rules and guidelines.
• Physically capable of restraining youth if necessary (must be trained in Handle With Care and follow policy guidelines concerning seclusion/restraint)
• Assists in transportation of residents as necessary to execute the case plan.
• Supervises ACT2, Enrichment, visitation, meals, and chores.
• Will report on residents' behaviors at the end of each shift by submitting shift notes into EMR. Incident reports are included (and required) where applicable.
• Will complete incident report forms as required.
• Will participate in staff meetings and trainings as required.
• As needed, responsible for meal preparation in accordance with planned menus and keeping records for National School Lunch Program, including Point of Service.
• When designated as the medication administrator for shift, will adhere to OCC medication administration policies and procedures.
• Offers active listening and support during crises or difficult moments to help residents navigate challenges.
• Help residents with homework or academic needs, encouraging goal setting.
• Teach essential skills like time management, conflict resolution, and personal hygiene.
• Lead physical, creative, or social activities that encourage teamwork and health.
• Perform designated client headcount in 15-minute intervals.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Minimum Education and Experience:

• High school education or GED with a demonstrated ability to work with troubled youth. Minimum of six months experience in residential care of children preferred. Must pass physical examination and have a current TB health card. Must have a current Arkansas Driver's license and an excellent driving record.

Skills and Knowledge:

• Displays leadership skills.
• Competent to assess the needs of clients.
• Practices and models conflict resolution skills.
• Models with clients and staff-accountability, respect and trust.
• Ability to work as a team member
• Follows OCC code of ethics.
• Ability to collect and analyze data to improve program outcomes.
• Demonstrates cultural sensitivity to OCC's clients and families and socioeconomic characteristics

Ouachita Children, Youth, and Family Services is a nationally accredited organization through the Council on Accreditation (COA).