Youth Support Worker

**YOUTH SUPPORT WORKER**

**COMPENSATION**:$21/hour + $3/hour covid premium

**About Us**: Youth Connections is dedicated to supporting vulnerable and at-risk youth through individual therapy, group support, and skill-building activities. We use a harm reduction, therapeutic, and behavioural modification model to foster personal growth and community integration.

**Key Responsibilities**:

- Ensure a safe, comfortable, and welcoming environment for youth.
- Promote behavioural change and personal growth for youth facing mental health and/or behavioural challenges.
- Provide life skills training tailored to the goals set by the youth and other stakeholders.
- Support youth in achieving their established goals.
- Assess and address primary needs during emotional challenges using non-violent crisis intervention.
- Utilize community resources and programs to support youth.
- Maintain accurate and current records for all youth.
- Practice cultural and diversity competence.
- Consult with social workers, other professionals, and families as appropriate.
- Adhere to all Youth Connections Inc. policies and procedures.
- Participate and contribute to regular staff meetings.
- Represent Youth Connections Inc. in a positive, professional manner.
- Support and embody the mission and culture of Youth Connections Inc.

**Qualifications**: We are looking for highly skilled individuals who possess the following:

- **Educational Background**: Post-secondary education in a related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Knowledge in psychology, social work, or youth counseling is highly beneficial.
- **Experience with Youth**: Demonstrated experience working with vulnerable or at-risk youth, understanding the unique challenges they face, and developing effective, personalized strategies to support their growth and development.
- **Crisis Intervention Expertise**: Solid understanding and experience with non-violent crisis intervention techniques. Ability to remain calm and effective during high-stress situations to provide immediate and appropriate support.
- **Flexibility and Adaptability**: Ability to work various shifts, including after school, evenings, and weekends, to meet the needs of the youth. Ability to adapt communication and intervention strategies to suit the developmental needs of each youth.
- **Communication and Organizational Skills**: Strong communication skills to effectively interact with youth, families, and professionals. Excellent organizational skills to manage multiple cases, maintain accurate records, and coordinate with community resources.
- **Cultural Competence**: Ability to practice cultural sensitivity and understand the diverse backgrounds of the youth. Commitment to promoting an inclusive and respectful environment.
- **Technical Proficiency**: Strong computer skills for maintaining records, developing reports, and utilizing online resources and programs.
- **Legal and Safety Requirements**: Successful result of a Level 4 BROAD CHECK and a valid driver’s license.

**Working Conditions**:

- Work in various environments, including multiple locations across Durham Region, outdoors, community settings, events, and the YC Office.

**Physical Requirements**:

- Activities such as walking, cooking, and youth-related sports.

**How to Apply**:
Join us in making a difference in the lives of youth in the Durham Region

**Job Type**: Part-time

Pay: From $21.00 per hour

Licence/Certification:

- Driving Licence (required)
- CPR/FIRST AID (required)

Work Location: In person