Youth Counselor

Journey of Hope Program-LTFC

Youth Counselor

Program: Journey of Hope-LTFC

Reports to: Shift Supervisor

Location: Moon

Hours: Full-time, morning/afternoon 8 hours per-shift

HFI MISSION DUTIES:

Holy Family Institute (HFI) is a 120-year-old Catholic organization with an impeccable history of serving children and families in the Pittsburgh Region. We are one of Pittsburgh's largest social service organizations operating 15 programs in three counties. We are an independent organization guided by Catholic Social Teachings and serving people of all faiths and backgrounds.


GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES:

The Youth Counselor assists the Shift Supervisor in providing direct daily supervision and monitoring of children in care of the Journey of Hope LTFC program. Final approval for hire will be done by the Project Officer of the Office of Refugee and Resettlement which is a sub-agency of the Department of Health and Human Services of the federal government.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• • Promote Holy Family Institute's mission, values, professionalism, teamwork, and positive relationships with staff, youth, families, and community partners.
  • Demonstrate effective communication, conflict resolution, problem-solving, and professional conduct at all times.
  • Provide continuous supervision, care, and support for children and youth, including those with special needs.
  • Ensure the safety, health, and wellbeing of youth by following all agency policies, procedures, and emergency protocols.
  • Supervise medications, medical appointments, illness care, and communicate medical information to appropriate personnel.
  • Apply HART, SELF, and approved behavioral support models to teach social, emotional, academic, and independent living skills.
  • Respect children's privacy, dignity, cultural backgrounds, religious beliefs, and individual needs while maintaining appropriate interactions.
  • Maintain a safe, clean, and organized environment, including facilities, vehicles, equipment, supplies, and security measures.
  • Complete all required documentation, incident reports, medical records, intake forms, and compliance-related responsibilities accurately and on time.
  • Follow all training, accreditation, regulatory, reporting, transportation, and administrative requirements.
  • Completes other duties assigned by supervisor.

REQUIREMENTS:

• High School diploma, GED or equivalent required, Bachelor's degree preferred.
• One year working with children required; residential or human services preferred.
• Ability to communicate effectively and document information accurately.
• Ability to deal efficiently and effectively with a wide variety of individuals. Ability to maintain electronic records, medical files and have basic computer skills, knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Must have or be able to obtain Act 33/34 and FBI clearances.
• The ability to drive a car or van; must have a valid PA driver's license.
• Fluency in Spanish and English (read, write and speak) preferred.
• Must be at least 21 years of age.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards.
• Ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards.
• Ability to lift or push a minimum of 20 lbs by themselves or up to 50 lbs with the assistance of others.
• Ability to stay awake for an entire working shift.
• Ability to verbally de-escalate children during a crisis situation.
• Capable of frequently climbing stairs and other activities that involve physical exertion (i.e. walking hallways, walking across campus).
• Must be able to talk, listen and speak clearly in person / on telephone.
• Quick physical response to a crisis situation.
• Must be able to implement CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention) non-passive behavior techniques.

COMMITMENT TO SOCIAL JUSTICE

Holy Family Institute and its affiliated organizations are committed to an environment that respects and values every human being and individual differences. We will invest time and resources to create an inclusive environment for all of our stakeholders. This means we will respect diversity that includes race, ethnicity, gender, socioeconomic status, education, disability, language, and sexual orientation. We also believe that we should be "Faithful Listeners" and embrace diversity of ideas, perspectives, and values. We believe in providing access, opportunity, fair treatment, and advancement for all people. Believing that "God is Found in Everyday Activities" we will do our best to eliminate barriers that prevent full participation in our programs and services. We believe "Loving Relationships" means that all are welcome, all are neighbors, and there are no exceptions. With this belief we aim to create an environment in which any individual or group can feel welcomed, respected, supportive, and valued.

HOLY FAMILY INSTITUTE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Pay Range: $17.50 per hour