Volunteers of America
YOUTH MENTOR - PRN MILESTONES
Hiring Timeframe
2-4 Weeks
Experience
Entry Level
Location
On-Site
Benefits
401(K) Matching
Dental Insurance
Health Insurance
Paid Time Off
Vision Insurance
Job Description
The Youth Mentor plays a vital role in creating a safe, structured, and supportive residential environment for youth ages 10 to 17 residing in our Crisis Shelter/Group Home. Serving as role models, advocates, and guides, Youth Mentors support young people working through behavioral, legal, family, or substance use challenges, while fostering personal growth through positive reinforcement and servant leadership.
Job Responsibilities & Requirements
Key Responsibilities
- Direct Care & Mentorship:
- Model, coach, and reinforce positive behaviors in accordance with the facility's behavior management program.
- Provide daily structure and active engagement in internal and external youth activities.
- Act as a supportive liaison between youth, facility staff, and partner organizations.
- Safety, Security & Facility Operations:
- Maintain overall health, safety, and physical security across the facility and grounds through regular monitoring and floor checks.
- Oversee movement inside/outside the building, monitor visitor interactions, and enforce fire and safety guidelines.
- Perform initial intake procedures for new youth arrivals.
- Assist with meal preparation and ensure daily cleanliness and upkeep of the group home.
- Transportation & Community Support:
- Transport youth safely to school, medical/legal appointments, and community outings using company vehicles.
Core Competencies
- Crisis De-escalation & Emotional Stability: Ability to maintain composure and respond effectively during crisis situations.
- Behavior Management: Skilled in establishing boundaries, managing challenging behaviors, and applying assertive, constructive redirection.
- Communication & Case Administration: Strong written and verbal communication skills; organized with routine recordkeeping and case management details.
- Mission Alignment: Demonstrates daily commitment to a servant-leadership mindset and core organizational values.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Required:
- High School Diploma or equivalent.
- Minimum of 1 year of experience working in residential care, youth services, or a related field.
- Valid driver’s license and clean driving record (for youth transportation duties).
- Preferred:
- 2+ years of experience in youth advocacy, mentoring, or residential programming.
- Associate degree in Criminal Justice, Social Work, Human Services, or a related field.
Physical & Environmental Working Conditions
- Work Environment: Residential group home environment with outdoor activities and local driving duties.
- Physical Requirements: Must be mobile throughout the facility, able to bend/stoop, participate in physical youth activities, sit for extended periods while driving or documenting on computer systems, and maintain good vision and hearing to ensure resident safety.