Youth Peer

Youth Mentor

Under the general direction of the Hope on the Horizon Program Manager, the Lead Youth Mentor will guide, inspire, and empower young people in our programs. This role is essential to creating a supportive and positive environment that encourages youth to overcome challenges, set goals, and build the skills necessary for a brighter future. The Lead Youth Mentor will supervise and train a team of mentors, coordinate activities, and build strong, trusting relationships with program participants, acting as a role model and advocate.

Essential Functions:

• Build meaningful relationships with youth participants, providing encouragement, guidance, and support in personal, academic, and career development.
• Serve as a role model, demonstrating positive behaviors, resilience, and effective problem-solving skills.
• Assist youth in settling and achieving academic, career, and personal development goals.
• Lead and participate in group activities, workshops, and events designed to develop life skills and foster a sense of community.
• Facilitate discussions on topics such as leadership, conflict resolution, and emotional well-being.
• Encourage participation in educational, recreational, and cultural activities.
• Identify and address individual needs, connecting youth to appropriate resources and services.
• Collaborate with community organizations, schools, and families to create a support network for participants.
• Maintain regular contact with mentees to track progress and provide ongoing support.
• Document interactions, progress, and outcomes to ensure program goals are met.
• Provide feedback and recommendations to improve program delivery.
• Work closely with staff and volunteers to ensure a safe and supportive environment.
• Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and community events as needed.

Position Specifics:

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor's degree in social work, education, psychology, or related field preferred.
• Previous experience in mentoring, counseling, or youth development programs is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of youth development principles, trauma-informed care, and challenges faced by at-risk youth.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to relate to young people and serve as a positive role model.
• Proven ability to lead, train, and support a team, with strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with professionalism.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, or other non-traditional hours as needed.

Physical Demands:

The following lists physical demands an employee will perform on a regular basis: standing, walking, sitting, bending, stooping, squatting, kneeling and climbing stairs.

• Ability to walk short distances
• Ability to use stairs
• Ability to leave a location quickly

Competencies:

• Leading Self
• Character and Courage (Integrity and Trust) Do the right thing, because it is the right thing, even when no one is looking. Truth to Power.
• Customer Focus Build positive relationships through communication and collaborative problem solving.
• Commitment to Diversity, Inclusion, Justice and Equity Believe in the dignity and humanity of all people to reach their full potential.