- Junior
- Office in Des Moines
Job Details
We are YSS!
At YSS, we believe in creating hope and opportunity by putting kids first. As a Youth Advocate - PT at our Youth Opportunity Center (YOC), you will be on the front lines of supporting young adults (ages 16–24) who are experiencing homelessness, at risk of homelessness, or recently housed.
In this role, you’ll provide supervision, crisis support, and life-skills guidance while ensuring a safe, stable, and respectful environment. From helping youth meet their basic needs, to assisting with case plans, to fostering meaningful connections, you will be a steady presence during a critical time in their journey toward independence and stability.
If you’re compassionate, dependable, and ready to make a lasting impact in the lives of vulnerable young people, we invite you to join our team.
What you will do:
- Conduct intakes with new youth and orient them to the center.
- Provide program information to potential clients, referral sources, and other groups, both in person and over the phone, as needed.
- Relate to clients in a caring, supportive manner, while enforcing program rules and guidelines consistently, firmly, and fairly.
- Oversee client activities such as chores, curfew, bedtime, wake-up, and personal hygiene. Is aware of clients' presence and behavior at all times.
- Check in any pocket knives or potential weapons nightly from youth to ensure that there are no weapons or illegal substances unsecured in the facility.
- Alert on-call staff or Case Manager of major incidents or emergencies.
- Ensure safety, cleanliness, and appearance of the facility.
- Assist and track inventory of household supplies, personal care products, and food items.
- Conduct group activities and center meetings to resolve conflicts as needed.
What we offer:
- Fun team environment
- Mission-driven work
- Insurance coverage options
- Wellness program offerings
- Paid time off & leave programs
- Discounts on pet insurance
- Flexible shift and hours
- Training and development opportunities
Qualifications
What you will need:
- High School Diploma/equivalent is required.
- One year of experience in the human services field is required.
- A valid Iowa Driver's license.