Community Outreach Navigator

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Community Outreach Navigator/Case Manager works within the community to identify and establish partnerships with various resources to support and enhance the services offered at the ERC (such as volunteers for the Speaker’s Bureau, tutors and other educational supports, job placement opportunities and potential sponsors (for gift cards, field trips, etc).  Will also provide support to ERC Community Resource Navigators (works with clients to assess personal strengths and develop and monitor individualized Youth Action Plans to achieve during their involvement in the ERC).

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES (COMMUNITY OUTREACH NAVIGATOR):

1.  Identify and establish partnerships with various community organizations (such as HBCU fraternities & sororities, Black and Latino professional organizations/social clubs) and other outlets to recruit volunteers for the ERC Speaker’s Bureau events.

2.Identify and establish partnerships with local high schools, colleges and tutoring organizations to recruit peer and adult tutors to assist ERC clients with their daily homework assignments.     

3. Identify and establish partnerships with various local businesses to create employment and internship (shadowing) opportunities for ERC clients.

4. Identify and pursue local businesses (and other financial resources) to solicit potential sponsorships for ERC events or donations (such as gift cards or discounts on goods or services).  

5. Coordinated and schedule the above work responsibilities with the ERC program manager, keeping him/her abreast of weekly progress in each of these areas.   

6. Administer intakes and various assessments to produce a comprehensive assessment of participants’ personal skills and goals, and support service needs.  Follow established protocols and procedures to identify and act on emergency or critical case management needs.

7. Create mutually agreed-upon individualized Youth Action Plans which focus on various program areas (structure & climate, academic support, life & social skills building, recreation & free time, service learning & civic engagement, career & work exploration, mental & behavioral health interventions, & family engagement).

8. Arrange and carry out the transportation of ERC clients to and from all program activities utilizing DJS vans and following appropriate protocols.

9. Meet regularly with individual clients to monitor needs and progress on an ongoing basis, provide case management, referrals, mentoring, and coaching.

10. Conduct home visits with client’s families (as requested), to provide support and connect to requested community resources.

11. Record client interactions, services, and events in a timely and proficient manner, to ensure that goals and objectives are met.  Maintains and updates client plans and files in accordance with program standards and contract requirements. This includes signed forms and releases and data related to intakes, follow-up, exit, and satisfaction surveys. Adheres to all federal, state and local client document confidentiality requirements.

12. Respond appropriately to emergency situations that involve or impact youth safety and security.

 EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, and REQUIREMENTS:

· Bachelor’s Degree required, preferably in Social Work, Sociology, Psychology or related field

· 1-2 years’ experience as a youth development specialist or case manager working with youth ages 14-18, involved in the Juvenile Justice System.

· Through knowledge of community resources within Montgomery County, MD and surrounding areas (preferred).

· Excellent oral and written communication skills along with ability to make public presentations.

· Experience using database software desirable.

· Must be able to pass a MD and federal criminal background check.

· Valid driver's license required and must meet PYS’ driving record standard.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

·  Ability to assess individual skills with precision and make appropriate referrals.

· Builds rapport and trust with clients, staff and community stakeholders.

·Thrives in a fast-paced environment.  Prioritizes and organizes multiple projects to meet deadlines with effective and efficient use of resources.

·  Is able to work under pressure, handle emergencies with professionalism and defuse crisis situations.

· Works collaboratively in all situations with clients and staff. Ensures clients’ comfort and trust.

· Practice with a strong code of ethics and integrity and fulfills obligations.

·Demonstrate sound judgment and decision making when working with youth and others. Shows flexibility, initiative, and resourcefulness in all actions and conversations.

· Is able to handle and be entrusted with confidential information.

 WORK ENVIRONMENT:

·  Able to work a flexible 40-hour work week during morning and evening hours.

SALARY & BENEFITS:

This position pays an annual salary of $57,000 - $59,000 based upon experience. This includes Paid Time Off (PTO) and Health Benefits (Medical, Dental and Vision), & Life Insurance.