Youth Care Advocate

PURPOSE: This position has the responsibility for the day-to-day supervision of children in the residential shelters, assisting with record keeping and specific program functions as well as performing duties necessary for the overall care and well-being of children in the residence. The Youth Care Advocate is responsible for understanding and actively participating in the Therapeutic Campus. FUNCTIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES : Assist in the efforts of an intentionally structured environment to help reinforce proper behaviors through the context of community life and personal responsibility. Assume responsibility for the direct supervision of children placed in the residential shelters. Participate in the daily group for children which may include leading or co-leading. The purpose is to set daily expectations and review shift schedule. Follow the program schedule, instructions, and assignments outlined by the Activities Manager, Point Person, Cottage Coordinator, and/or Shelter Cottage Manager. Interact with, initiate, and encourage children in structured educational, social, therapeutic, and recreational activities. Ensure that children participate in structured group activities as outlined on the Activities Calendar. Provide appropriate role modeling and direction to the children in their daily routines. Collaboratively work with other Youth Care Advocates, Cottage Coordinators, and staff to listen and meet the needs of the children while in our care. Understand and follow Youth Haven's policies and procedures and Florida Department of Children and Families (FDCF) licensing requirements. Perform duties, as assigned, in the care and maintenance of the program and facility. Utilize Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS) techniques with children once fully trained. Perform daily childcare responsibilities as assigned including; group assignment, meal preparation, serving food, eating with children, and assisting with children as needed. After passing the Medication Course the Youth Care Advocate will be approved to administer medications. Document, secure, and administer prescribed and over-the-counter medication as outlined by written medical orders under the direction of the Cottage Coordinator, and Shelter Cottage Manager. Responsible for all cleaning and laundry duties related to a well-maintained shelter including, but not limited to, all rooms in the cottage. Responsible for driving children to group outings, school, summer camp etc. File records in an orderly and timely fashion as assigned by the Cottage Coordinator. Ensure that each child has all of their belongings at discharge and that all necessary paperwork is completed. Ensure that each child completes a satisfaction survey monthly. Responsible for maintaining accurate records daily including, but not limited to, the shift reports, medication log, vehicle log, communication log, and case notes on assigned youth. Ensure that safety equipment and supplies are always on hand. Attend and participate in regularly scheduled staff meetings and weekly one-on-one meetings with the Cottage Coordinator. Attend case staffing meetings as required by the Shelter Cottage Manager. Complete the 40+ hours of pre-service training prior to beginning floor training and 30+hours of training, annually. Member of the PQI Team. Perform other duties as assigned.