Youth Coach

Summary

CASES' youth programs aim to help New York City's systems-impacted young people, aged 13-24, to lead productive lives. Our approach is distinguished by individualized case management, evidence-based programming, and group activities that build positive peer associations. For many, this is the first time in their lives that they are participating in activities that help them set personal goals and develop the skills they need to reach them.

This program will provide continued education support to middle- and high-school aged (13+) youth, and young adults in post-secondary learning or career environments, while simultaneously providing emotional support, establishing career development goals, and assisting with life skills development.
 

Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s degree and 2+ years of experience working with young people; OR
• An Associate or other accredited vocational degree, and 3+ years of experience working with young people; OR
• A “credible messenger” (has a background in foster care, criminal legal system, or other systems-involvement), with some post-secondary experience (e.g., some college), with significant experience (4+ years) working with young people in a professional, paid role.
• Lived experience is a major plus!
• Ability to work some evening and weekend hours is expected.

Duties

• Build relationships with up to 10-15 young people. Coaches employ creative, out-of-the box approaches to engaging youth and do not give up if they are not responsive.
• Build relationships and collaborate with the key adults in the young person’s life to support their goals and well-being, including other agency staff (e.g., Case Planners and Specialists), foster parents, school/program staff, and other significant adult figures.
• Help young people explore their interests and expose them to opportunities in line with their interests.
• Work 1:1 with young people to develop individualized academic and career development goals based on their interests/strengths and take measurable steps towards their goals.
• Connect young people to quality schools, programs, resources, and opportunities in line with their goals.
• Help young people persist in academic/career settings, navigate any challenges that arise, celebrate successes, and plan/prepare for the next step on their journey.
• Connect young people to peer group supports and build positive relationships.
• Use an online platform each week to track contacts, young people’s goals, steps taken towards goals, and other key data. Full support will be provided on how to use Care4 database.
• Participate in weekly staff meetings.