Job Description:Job Title: Youth SpecialistLocation: Cape Girardeau, MissouriEmployment Type: Full-timeJob 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 youthOpportunity to develop and implement individualized support plansDiverse responsibilities encompassing education, career planning, and life skillsCollaborative work environment with Family Support TeamsChance to advocate for youth and connect them with vital resourcesWe'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 moreTelemedicine – 24/7 phone, web, or mobile app medical, behavioral health, & dermatology visitsEmployee Assistance Program – 24/7 counseling services, legal assistance, & financial consultation for you and your household at no costPaid Time Off - 29 days per year including vacation & holiday payWorkplace Culture - An environment cultivating employee wellbeing, valuing each individual's humanity, and actively promoting healthy, joyful workforce engagementOpportunity to make a lasting impact on youth transitioning to adulthoodFlexible work schedule, including some evenings and weekendsDiverse and dynamic work environmentProfessional development and growth opportunitiesKey Responsibilities:Develop and implement individualized service plans for assigned youthProvide instructional activities and support to help youth achieve independence goalsCollaborate with Family Support Teams to address obstacles and create effective strategiesFacilitate financial assistance transactions aligned with service plan goalsAssist youth in developing essential life skills, including budgeting, meal planning, and job seekingServe as a community resource specialist and advocate for youthOrganize and facilitate Local Youth Advisory Board meetings and other group activitiesComplete required documentation and data entry in multiple databasesTransport youth to appointments and activities as necessaryParticipate in community events and awareness activities to promote servicesEducation and/or Experience Qualifications:High school diploma or equivalent certificate requiredAssociate's or bachelor's degree in an applicable field from an accredited institution preferredExperience in foster care, education, employment services, case management, social services, or other applicable vocation preferredAdditional Qualifications:Strong customer service and communication skillsProficiency in computer applications (Word, Excel, internet platforms, other electronic media)Understanding of supporting youth with barriers to employment, education, and/or independent livingMust have current or be willing to obtain certification in CPR/First AidCurrent driver's license and auto insurance requiredAbility to pass a background check including criminal record, driving record, and abuse/neglect screeningPhysical ability to sit, stand, walk, kneel, crouch, bend, and lift up to 50 pounds occasionallyKeywords: Youth Specialist, Foster Care, Case Management, Social Services, Life Skills Training, Youth Advocacy, Independent Living, Career Planning, Community Resources, Youth DevelopmentWe 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.