Youth Engagement Specialist - Evening Shift

Covenant House Texas:
Youth Engagement Specialist - Evening Shift (3P-11P)

Full‑time position.

Hours:

3:00 PM – 11:00 PM. Schedule and days off vary.

In keeping with the Mission Statement and Principles of Covenant House, the Youth Engagement Specialist is responsible for providing comprehensive, trauma‑informed care to youth experiencing homelessness. This role focuses on building positive, trusting relationships with youth, conducting life skills classes, and supporting individualized case plans that enable youth to transition to stability. The specialist works closely with other staff members and external partners to ensure youth have access to services and resources such as housing, education, employment, mental health support, and life skills development, while engaging and advocating in a compassionate and respectful manner.

• Youth Engagement and Relationship Building:
  • Build trusting, supportive relationships with youth through consistent, respectful, and empathetic interactions.
  • Use trauma‑informed care principles to engage youth in a non‑judgmental manner, promoting self‑esteem and empowerment.
  • Create a welcoming and safe environment for youth, fostering a sense of belonging and stability.
  • Encourage youth participation in shelter activities, support groups, and life skills workshops.
• Case Management and Support:
  • Conduct comprehensive assessments of youth’s immediate needs, strengths, and goals upon intake and throughout their stay.
  • Support youth’s individualized case plans that address housing, education, employment, mental health, and other personal needs.
  • Advocate for youth to access services, including housing, medical care, educational opportunities, and employment programs.
• Resource Coordination and Referrals:
  • Assist youth in navigating the system of services, including referrals to community resources such as mental health services, medical care, employment programs, and housing.
  • Coordinate with internal and external partners to ensure that youth have access to the necessary resources and supports.
  • Help youth develop life skills, such as financial literacy, job readiness, and self‑care, to promote independence and self‑sufficiency.
• Crisis Intervention and Support:
  • Provide immediate support to youth in crisis situations, using de‑escalation techniques and trauma‑informed practices.
  • Ensure that youth are safe and their basic needs (e.g., food, shelter, clothing) are being met.
  • Respond to emotional or behavioral challenges in a calm, supportive, and professional manner, while maintaining safety and respect for the youth.
• Program Participation and Documentation:
  • Participate in group activities, workshops, and recreational programs designed to support youth development and well‑being.
  • Complete all necessary documentation related to youth interactions and progress in a timely and accurate manner.
  • Maintain up‑to‑date progress notes in accordance with agency policies and confidentiality standards.
• Collaboration and Teamwork:
  • Work closely with other shelter staff, including case managers, housing specialists, and mental health professionals, to ensure coordinated service delivery.
  • Participate in team meetings to discuss youth progress, challenges, and service needs.
• Advocacy and Empowerment:
  • Empower youth to take an active role in their own growth and decision‑making, offering guidance and support as they navigate challenges.
  • Advocate for the needs and rights of youth, ensuring they have access to safe housing, education, and employment opportunities.
  • Support youth in setting and achieving both short‑ and long‑term goals, fostering independence and resilience.
• Trauma‑Informed Care:
  • Ensure that all interactions with youth are conducted with a trauma‑informed approach, recognizing the impact of past trauma and creating a safe, respectful environment.
  • Model and promote trauma‑sensitive practices in all aspects of youth engagement, ensuring that youth’s emotional, physical, and psychological safety is prioritized.
  • Attend ongoing training in trauma‑informed care, youth development, and other relevant areas to enhance service delivery and support youth’s needs.
• Safety and…