JOB SUMMARY:
Under the direction of the Assigned Supervisor, the Youth Care Advocate is responsible for ensuring that all clients receive professional, safe care in a well-maintained and secure environment. In this function, the Youth Care Advocate is responsible to ensure that YMCA, DCF and DEEC policies are applied. He/she is responsible to apply his/her own skills, experience and interests while interacting and counseling clients. A Youth Care Advocate must maintain a positive role model for clients, enhance their self-worth and provide encouragement so that they may reach their full potential. A Youth Care Advocate is responsible to contribute to a positive work environment by illustrating pride in his/her job and cooperation with co-workers and the Program Director. He/she will reflect and display the values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.

JOB FUNCTION:
Program/Department Responsibilities:
- The program requires 24 hour staffing. Staff may be mandated to stay until staffing ratios are in accordance with EEC guidelines.
- Ensure all security procedures, as outlined in the Operations Manual, are followed in full to provide a safe, secure and healthy environment for clients and staff.
- Closely monitor all clients in all phases of their daily activities and during their night routine and to make sure that all rules and regulations of the program are followed both on and off the unit.
- Plan, implement and supervise activities during free time for clients (games, discussions, etc.).

- Conduct thorough intake and discharge procedures, including all paperwork and careful storage and labeling of clients’ belongings and valuables.
- Complete all paperwork and documentation as needed, including log entries, van mileage, incident reports, meal count sheets, clinical reports, security sheets, etc., prior to completion of shift.
- Prevent crisis situations from escalating and assist a crisis situation by intervening and counseling clients in a calm, professional manner and utilizing your Therapeutic Crisis Intervention Skills, and if necessary, physical restraints.
- Attend and participate in all required program meetings and professional trainings.
- Maintain required certifications and may be required to MAP certified within six months of start date dependent on DCF program.
- Accept advocacy responsibilities (coach, mentor and support) for assigned residents.
- Report any suspected child abuse to the Supervisor on duty or DCF.
- Supervise, prepare and assist in meal preparation and laundry chores.
- Be punctual in attendance and follow the program’s policies and procedures.
- Receive permission from Program Director or designee prior to leaving your shift to ensure proper staff coverage.
- Maintain YMCA, DCF, DEEC policies and procedures. Adhere to CARF standards.
- Work as part of a team with co-workers.
- Follow dress code policy.
- Complete resident monthly reports competently and on time.
- To assist other OCY programs as directed.
- Assume PIC (Person in Charge) responsibilities as assigned.
- Ensure emergency procedures (fire, safety and medical) are posted in the program and followed by all.
- Complete supply inventories upon request.
- Provide professional and courteous telephone service to all contacts when needed.
- There will be occasions that the use of your personal vehicle will be expected and required. You will be reimbursed for the mileage completed during an Old Colony Y assignment.