What are the responsibilities and job description for the Youth Support Advocate - RELIEF position at Kennedy-Donovan Center?
Position Overview
The Youth Support Advocate (YSA) provides direct care, supervision, and support to children residing in an EEC-funded emergency shelter. Working under Program Leadership, this role ensures the safety, well-being, and positive development of children experiencing crisis.
This is an ideal opportunity for a compassionate, patient, and energetic professional who is committed to trauma-informed care and making a meaningful impact.
Schedule: Relief / As-Needed
Compensation: $20.60
Key Responsibilities
- Provide a safe, structured, and supportive environment for children in care
- Maintain required staff-to-child ratios in accordance with EEC guidelines
- Build positive, supportive relationships and serve as a role model
- Supervise children at all times to ensure safety and program compliance
- Support activities of daily living (ADLs), including hygiene, meals, and routines
- Facilitate social, recreational, and life skills development
- Complete intake and discharge documentation accurately
- Administer and document medications per agency policy (as applicable)
- Respond effectively to crises, including medical emergencies
- Maintain accurate records and uphold strict confidentiality standards
- Participate in required trainings, meetings, and professional development
- Follow all organizational policies and regulatory requirements (EEC, DCF)
Why Join Us?
- Make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families
- Gain hands-on experience in trauma-informed and residential care
- Opportunities for growth within human services
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Minimum 1 year of experience working with children or vulnerable youth
(residential, foster care, emergency settings, or similar) - Knowledge of trauma-informed care and child development
- Strong communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills
- Ability to remain calm and respond effectively in crisis situations
- Willingness to work a flexible schedule
- Ability to complete required trainings (CPR, First Aid, SafetyCare)
- Successful completion of background checks per EEC requirements
Working Conditions & Physical Requirements
- Active role requiring standing, walking, bending, and participation in activities
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs as needed
- Work in a 24/7 residential setting (indoor and outdoor responsibilities)
- Exposure to varying noise levels and weather conditions
- Participation in routine household tasks (cleaning, organizing, etc.)
- Must maintain required certifications (CPR, First Aid, SafetyCare)
- High emotional awareness and resilience required due to crisis-related work
Note: Staff are not authorized to use physical restraint; safety is maintained through de-escalation and trauma-informed practices.
Salary : $21