Job Description: Job Title: Youth Specialist Location: Cape Girardeau, Missouri Employment Type: Full-time Job Summary: Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of young people? Join our team as a Youth Specialist and help shape the future of current and former foster youth. This rewarding position offers five compelling reasons to apply: + Meaningful impact on vulnerable youth + Opportunity to develop and implement individualized support plans + Diverse responsibilities encompassing education, career planning, and life skills + Collaborative work environment with Family Support Teams + Chance to advocate for youth and connect them with vital resources We're seeking a compassionate, organized, and resourceful individual to guide youth towards independence and self-sufficiency. As a Youth Specialist, you'll provide essential services and financial assistance to current and former foster youth. Your role involves conducting instructional and support activities based on each youth's individualized plan goals. You'll facilitate the development of crucial skills and resources necessary for successful independence, including educational support, career planning, job seeking, daily living skills, financial management, social connectedness, and healthcare guidance. Cape Girardeau offers a vibrant community with a perfect blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. Situated along the Mississippi River, the city boasts beautiful parks, a thriving arts scene, and excellent educational institutions. Enjoy a high quality of life with affordable living costs, friendly neighbors, and easy access to outdoor recreation. The Youth Specialist position offers… + All-Inclusive Employee Benefits Package - A robust full-time employee benefits package encompassing health, dental, vision, retirement, disability, life insurance, wellness program, and more + Telemedicine – 24/7 phone, web, or mobile app medical, behavioral health, & dermatology visits + Employee Assistance Program – 24/7 counseling services, legal assistance, & financial consultation for you and your household at no cost + Paid Time Off - 29 days per year including vacation & holiday pay + Workplace Culture - An environment cultivating employee wellbeing, valuing each individual's humanity, and actively promoting healthy, joyful workforce engagement + Opportunity to make a lasting impact on youth transitioning to adulthood + Flexible work schedule, including some evenings and weekends + Diverse and dynamic work environment + Professional development and growth opportunities Key Responsibilities: + Develop and implement individualized service plans for assigned youth + Provide instructional activities and support to help youth achieve independence goals + Collaborate with Family Support Teams to address obstacles and create effective strategies + Facilitate financial assistance transactions aligned with service plan goals + Assist youth in developing essential life skills, including budgeting, meal planning, and job seeking + Serve as a community resource specialist and advocate for youth + Organize and facilitate Local Youth Advisory Board meetings and other group activities + Complete required documentation and data entry in multiple databases + Transport youth to appointments and activities as necessary + Participate in community events and awareness activities to promote services Education and/or Experience Qualifications: + High school diploma or equivalent certificate required + Associate's or bachelor's degree in an applicable field from an accredited institution preferred + Experience in foster care, education, employment services, case management, social services, or other applicable vocation preferred Additional Qualifications: + Strong customer service and communication skills + Proficiency in computer applications (Word, Excel, internet platforms, other electronic media) + Understanding of supporting youth with barriers to employment, education, and/or independent living + Must have current or be willing to obtain certification in CPR/First Aid + Current driver's license and auto insurance required + Ability to pass a background check including criminal record, driving record, and abuse/neglect screening + Physical ability to sit, stand, walk, kneel, crouch, bend, and lift up to 50 pounds occasionally Keywords: Youth Specialist, Foster Care, Case Management, Social Services, Life Skills Training, Youth Advocacy, Independent Living, Career Planning, Community Resources, Youth Development We are an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer, and encourage applications from all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, marital status, disability or veteran status, or to other non-work related factors. Preferred Family Healthcare is a Smoke and Tobacco Free Workplace.