Job Summary:

The Outreach and Support Specialist is responsible for providing gang prevention and intervention education and services to youth in coordination with the Gang Intervention Specialist. Proposed strategies should build upon the principles of the following core strategies in the OJJDP Comprehensive Gang Model: Community Mobilization, Opportunities Provision, and Social Intervention. In addition, the Outreach and Support Specialist is responsible for operational and administrative duties relating to the program responsibilities which include Job Readiness and Employment support, identifying and coordinating pro-social activities, transportation as needed, and referral and linkage support as needed. The Outreach and Support Specialist represents Southwest Key Programs in the most positive manner with prospective, former and current youth/families, funding sources, suppliers and the community served. Required to work flexible schedule to facilitate program services.

Essential Functions:

• Refer targeted youth to alternative activities for the purpose of providing support and encouraging a disassociation from gangs and creating connections with positive peer influences
• Create, present and distribute program materials as needed for outreach, etc
• Responsible for timely and accurate program data collection, as well as documenation in all required systems
• Cultivate community partnerships that will provide additional suuport and resources for program participants
• Plan and implement Prosocial Activities on required timelines
• Identify free and low cost pro-social activities and events and create calendar for youth and families
• Provide transportation of youth in personal vehicle as needed
• Refer youth and families to natural supports as needed
• Adhere to and implementation of the terms of the program contract in accordance with the funding source and Southwest Key’s Programs policy and procedures
• Ensure all reports required are submitted to the Program Director in a timely manner
• Ensure all time sensitive documents, notes and reports are complete and accurate and submitted on time
• Monitor and maintain compliance with organization, licensing, and funding source for all program departments
• Complete all required training on time
• Train youth on Job readiness and employment support All other duties as assigned

Other Functions:

• Maintain open and consistent communication with Program staff Maintain all required trainings and certifications.
• Travel as needed for trainings, meetings and conferences.
• Initiate and maintain effective communication with community partners.
• Able to react to change productively and handle other essential tasks as assigned.
• Maintain flexible hours and work on weekends and evenings
• Drive personal vehicle for work duties

Qualifications and Requirements:

Must be able to read, write, and communicate both verbally and in written form to express and exchange ideas. While performing the responsibilities of this job; must be able to access all components of workstation and other office equipment. Frequent typing, writing, bending and twisting. Must be able to lift to 10 pounds

Work Environment:

General office environment with moderate noise. This position may require work in the field and must drive personal vehicle in various weather conditions. This position may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. A busy environment with many unscheduled interruptions. Frequent computer use at workstation for extended periods of time. Public contact position requiring appropriate business apparel.

• High School diploma with 3 years prior experience with at risk youth and/or social service field Understanding and knowledge around gang culture, mindset and behaviors
• Cultural competency and ability to navigate and promote sensitivity to issues of race and equity
• Competency on Microsoft Office applications and other data base platforms
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, attention to detail and multi-tasking skills, and be able to work under pressure
• Self-starter, detail-oriented, excellent follow-up and organization skills, report writing and presentation skills Clear background check from appropriate entity
• Must possess a valid state driver’s license, registration and maintain state mandated car insurance
• Preferred: Bilingual (English/Spanish)