Youth Development Specialist

Are you passionate about reaching new heights, teamwork, and making a meaningful contribution? Queens Community House (QCH) is a multi-site nonprofit organization serving the diverse population of Queens through a broad network of programs for children and youth, adults and families, and older adults. Our mission is to provide individuals and families with the tools to enrich their lives and build healthy, inclusive communities. We are a modern interpretation of the traditional settlement house, bringing to our work innovative leadership and a passion for social and economic justice. We welcome amazing individuals who have diverse backgrounds and experiences, are inspired by our mission, and are highly motivated to change lives.

The Young Adults Borough Center/ Learning to Work Program (YABC/LTW) Program is an alternative pathway to graduation for youth 17 years and older, funded by The NYC Department of Education and implemented in collaboration with Queens Community House (QCH). We are committed to providing support services to students who desire to pursue their high school diplomas. 

The YABC/LTW Program is an alternative pathway to graduation for youth 17 years and older, the program is funded by the NYC Department of Education and implemented in collaboration with Queens Community House (QCH) at the site of the High School for Arts and Business. We are committed to providing students with support services to achieve this goal of a high school diploma. The YABC/LTW Youth Development Specialist will provide comprehensive support services to program participants as required by contract and appropriate to their needs. As the students' Primary Person, the Youth Development Specialist will provide one on one wellness counseling, and prepare students for positions in internships, support the college readiness process, assist with post-secondary planning. The Youth Development Specialist reports to the Program Director. 

Primary Responsibilities:

• Conduct ongoing attendance outreach, including home visits and work site visits
• Counsel each student on the creation and implementation of a post-secondary plan for college, training, or employment within 60 days of enrollment
• Providing a minimum of (2) individual sessions per month for each student; one on academic progress and the other on career advisement
• Conduct advisory groups by facilitating curricula and discussion in the following content areas: job readiness, career exploration, conflict resolution, political education, mediation, leadership, community service, youth employment, gender groups, psychoeducation, etc
• Maintain ongoing communication with parents and guardians of participants to support positive outcomes for the students and assist families with identified needs
• Connect students to outside resources and make appropriate referrals if needed
• Begin the CUNY and FAFSA application process with each eligible student on the caseload
• Meet bi-weekly with immediate supervisor and come prepared with agenda items to discuss
• Ensure that required follow-up is made to graduates in the month of July and February
• Work collaboratively with DOE staff. Take initiative and demonstrate flexibility in responding to school needs

 Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, or a related field
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience working with youth
• Demonstrated ability to plan and facilitate activities and manage classroom expectations
• Experience in facilitating group sessions in community services, leadership, college readiness, and employment opportunities with a connection to counseling
• Demonstrated attendance and punctuality in meeting the required schedule
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, multi-tasking, and communication skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and use appropriate discretion
• Knowledgeable of computer skills with various programs and willingness to learn new ones
• Able to work 12:30 pm to 8:30 pm Monday through Thursday and 8:00 am to 4:00 pm on Fridays. Throughout the school year. The summer schedule is 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM. As well as being flexible with your schedule when needed as per program needs
• Bilingual, Spanish

PREFERRED skills/experience/qualities:

• working with youth preferably in an NYC high school setting.