Wraparound Youth Partner

Youth ERA is an Oregon-based non-profit that creates lasting positive change in the lives of young people and the systems that serve them. By uniting a diverse collective of young adults and organizations around innovative solutions, Youth Era impacts thousands each year. The work we do is fueled by a deep sense of dedication to our staff, the young people we serve, and the system partners we collaborate with, who give their time and voices to empower young lives and improve our communities.

Every day, our team creates positive change in countless ways. Whether we're providing one-on-one support to a young person in need, developing programs and resources that help young people thrive, or working with system partners to create change at a broader level, we're driven by our mission to empower and uplift the next generation. Join us and be part of the change!

Our Benefits

• We offer 100% employer-paid comprehensive medical, dental, and vision group health insurance.
• Enjoy 12 paid holidays, including your birthday!
• Take advantage of our 403b retirement plan.
• Access our employee assistance program.
• Generous paid time off plan.
• Professional development assistance.

Are you passionate about helping your peers overcome their mental health and life challenges? Do you have firsthand experience with mental health, addiction/recovery, incarceration/juvenile justice, Oregon Youth Authority, foster care, education, or LGBTQ communities? If so, we want YOU to join our team at Youth Era!

We strongly encourage applicants to provide a cover letter as it allows them to showcase their personality, passion, and specific qualifications for the position they are applying for.

Research shows that women and BIPOC individuals are often hesitant to apply for positions unless they feel confident they can fulfill every task outlined in the job description. At our organization, our priority is to find the most qualified candidate for the job. We recognize the value of diverse experiences and perspectives, and we're committed to considering any equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience.

Position Title: Wraparound Youth Partner

Offered Benefits: Medical, Vision, and Dental coverage comprehensive benefits and PTO package
Work Schedule: 40 hrs/week (hours may vary)
Position Type: 1.0 FTE, Full-time hourly (non-exempt)

Wage: $25 hourly

In this role, you will:

• Respond to requests and referrals for youth and young adult peer support
• Support youth in identifying their strengths, needs, and priorities
• Assist youth in communicating their needs to members of their care team
• Provide emotional support and model self-advocacy across a variety of settings

Key Responsibilities:

• Facilitate a youth-centered process to identify strengths, needs, and goals
• Help youth clarify, prioritize, and articulate concerns effectively
• Identify and connect youth to formal and natural supports within their community
• Coach and support youth in accessing resources, including making calls and completing forms or applications
• Maintain up-to-date local resource information and educate youth on how to access resources independently
• Support youth in meetings and appointments, including but not limited to:
• • Child and Family Team meetings
  • Schools and court settings
  • Child welfare reunification planning
  • Inpatient and outpatient treatment reviews
  • Medical and therapeutic appointments
• Encourage independence by building skills in resource navigation and self-advocacy
• Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements:

• One year of lived experience and demonstrated knowledge of the mental health system and how to navigate it
• Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, and current auto insurance
• Ability to travel and work evenings and weekends as required
• Ability to pass required background checks (CRIMS) and federal drug screening

Other Qualifications:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Genuine interest in the well-being of peers and the ability to honor each person’s unique experiences
• Ability to empower youth to actively participate in developing their plan of care
• Basic computer proficiency (e.g., Android apps, Microsoft Office)
• Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse cultural, religious, racial, educational, and socioeconomic backgrounds
• Ability to lift and carry up to 35 pounds
• Prior knowledge of or experience with the Wraparound process is preferred

Must Haves:

• Identification as a peer with lived experience in youth- or young adult-serving systems (e.g., mental health, substance use recovery, juvenile justice, Oregon Youth Authority, foster care), or experience supporting a family member
• Understanding of peer support, youth advocacy, and the youth movement, with the ability to discuss these concepts with professionals and the public
• Familiarity with the Youth Bill of Rights, youth support principles, and issues impacting youth and families nationwide
• Peer Support Specialist certification from a state-approved program, or willingness and ability to obtain certification upon hire
• Willingness to maintain professional growth through trainings, educational opportunities, and professional networks

If you’re ready to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people and contribute to a compassionate, youth-centered organization, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today and join us in empowering youth in our community.