Diversion Specialist

Residential Youth Services & Empowerment (RYSE), a community-based organization, seeks a Diversion Specialist. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, quality assurance, data collection, in-reach to incarcerated/institutionalized youth (i.e., OCCC, WCCC, Hawaii State Hospital), court advocacy, building and maintaining relationships with like-minded organizations; law enforcement;
Department of Health (ADAD, AMHD, etc.);
Hawaii State Judiciary, and drug treatment facilities.

The Diversion Specialist will further the agency’s mission of providing a continuum of support that empowers Hawaii’s street youth to move beyond houselessness. RYSE envisions a community where there is no youth houselessness.

• In-reach to incarcerated/institutionalized youth (i.e. OCCC, WCCC, Hawaii State Hospital)
• Court Advocacy
• Building and maintaining relationships with like-minded organizations, law enforcement, DoH, HSJ, and drug treatment facilities
• Linkage to appropriate supportive services
• Coordination of probation requirements and conditions of supervised release
• Attend all meetings and trainings, as scheduled
• Input data into various databases to track homelessness status and standard case management functions
• Coordination with substance abuse and mental health treatment centers
• Case management for all clients

• Knowledge of the criminal justice system in Hawaii and various social service organizations. Access to an insured, registered vehicle, and able to successfully complete a driving record abstract and criminal background check.

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in the field of psychology, social work, criminal justice, or closely related field with a minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience with the identified population.

• Experience providing diversion, reentry, or transition services to youth involved in the juvenile or criminal justice systems.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed care, positive youth development, restorative justice practices, and harm reduction approaches.
• Experience working with youth experiencing homelessness, substance use disorders, serious mental illness, or family conflict.
• Familiarity with the Hawaii juvenile justice system, probation processes, and specialty courts.

This position involves engaging with diverse communities, participating in site visits, and attending policy discussions. Reasonable accommodation will be made to ensure accessibility.

While primarily office-based, occasional fieldwork, community meetings, and housing site evaluations may be required. Standard office responsibilities include document preparation, computer use, and phone communication.

RYSE is committed to equity, inclusion, and social impact. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including members of the LGBTQ+ community and those with lived experiences in housing insecurity.

Full Time