Self-Sufficiency Advocate & YTDM Facilitator

Job Details

Job Location:

Youth Opportunity Center
- Des Moines, IA 50309

Position Type:
Full Time

Education Level: 4 Year Degree

Salary Range: $20.00 - $21.00 Hourly

Travel Percentage:
Up to 50%

Job Shift: Day

Job Category:
Direct Care
- Supportive Housing

YSS is looking to add to our Youth Opportunity Center team in Des Moines. As the Self‑Sufficiency Advocate (SSA) & Youth Transition Decision‑Making (YTDM) Facilitator, you'll wear two meaningful hats while supporting youth involved in foster care or court‑appointed placement.

• Build trusting relationships that help youth develop confidence, independence, and self‑sufficiency.
• Provide individualized case management and Aftercare Services for youth ages 17–23.
• Meet regularly with youth in their homes, schools, communities, or virtually.
• Connect youth with resources and services that help them reach their goals.
• Help ensure each youth's immediate safety and basic needs are addressed whenever possible.
• Transport youth to meetings, appointments, and other program activities as needed.

• Coordinate every step of the YTDM process—from referral through follow‑up.
• Prepare youth to lead meaningful conversations about their future.
• Schedule meetings and coordinate participation from family members, professionals, and other supports.
• Facilitate engaging, youth‑centered meetings where every voice is respected and heard.

• Partner with schools, employers, therapists, child welfare staff, and community providers to support youth success.
• Respond promptly to referrals and maintain communication with agency partners.
• Work collaboratively with teammates while promoting a culture of respect, inclusion, and cultural responsiveness.

• Maintain accurate documentation, case notes, and required reports.
• Ensure services meet Iowa Aftercare Services Network contract requirements and program standards.
• Stay current on Iowa Code, Aftercare Services, and YTDM best practices.
• Participate in team meetings, trainings, and agency initiatives.

This is not a complete list of the responsibilities of this position. Duties may change at any time.

You're a relationship builder who believes every young person deserves a champion. You know how to listen, encourage, and empower youth to make decisions about their future while providing the guidance and support they need to thrive. You're organized enough to keep the details on track and compassionate enough to keep youth at the center of everything you do.

• Supportive leadership team and mission‑driven culture
• Flexibility and autonomy in a collaborative environment
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for all employees

• Comprehensive health insurance
• Voluntary dental and vision insurance
• Life insurance and long‑term disability coverage
• Supplemental accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity insurance
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) / Health Savings Account (HSA) options
• Flu shots and mental health support resources
• Paid membership to the Athletic Club of Ames

• Generous paid time off (4 weeks PTO)
• Paid holidays, including a birthday holiday
• Volunteer time off

• Competitive salary
• Supplemental compensation award
• 403(b) retirement savings plan

• Professional liability insurance coverage
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) qualified employer

We want to create a world where youth are valued and empowered to stand strong. To do this, we ask our staff to embrace YSS core values
- Commitment, Collaboration, Compassion, Innovation, Integrity, and a “Can Do” Spirit.

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Human Services, Case Management, Nursing, or a related field OR an equivalent combination of education and relevant human services experience.
• At least one (1) year of experience in the human services field
• You believe every young person deserves to be heard, respected, and empowered.
• You’ll be driving a YSS vehicle, so we need you to:

• Be at…