Self-Sufficiency Advocate & YTDM Facilitator

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.

As an SSA, you'll partner with youth ages 17–23 as they prepare for adulthood, providing case management, advocacy, life skills support, and encouragement as they work toward independence and self-sufficiency.

As a YTDM Facilitator, you'll coordinate and lead YTDM meetings, helping young people take an active role in planning their future while ensuring their voices remain at the center of every conversation.

Together, these roles create opportunities for youth to build lasting connections, make informed decisions, and confidently take their next steps.

What You'll Do...Support & Empower Youth 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.

Lead Youth Transition Planning 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.

Collaborate & Build Connections 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.

Keep Things Running Smoothly 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.

Who You Are...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.

What We Provide...We invest in people—because when you thrive, so do the communities we serve. At YSS, you’ll find meaningful work, strong support, and benefits designed for real life.

Supportive Culture & Work Environment Supportive leadership team and mission-driven culture

Flexibility and autonomy in a collaborative environment

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for all employees

Health & Wellness Benefits 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 Time Off & Work-Life Balance Generous paid time off (4 weeks PTO)
Paid holidays, including a birthday holiday

Volunteer time off Financial & Retirement Benefits Competitive salary

Supplemental compensation award
403(b) retirement savings plan Professional & Career Support 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,…