JOB GOAL: The Group Specialist provides positive youth development services (education, advocacy, support, referral, etc.) to youth and their families. The Group Specialist will facilitate the Project Success program with the goal of enhancing student resiliency skills through the substance abuse prevention curricula from the Project Success Program. They will develop and cultivate relationships and coordinate efforts with schools to reduce the risk factors for substance use while working to enhance the factors that will protect youth from these risks. They will conduct classroom presentations, plan awareness campaigns for the entire school, work with smaller groups with youth identified as “at-risk” and consult with school staff to make referrals for youth needing additional services.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assess the group dynamics of students and implement appropriate strategies.
• Teach and promote the core elements of Project Success and positive youth development programming including being an adolescent, ATOD prevention information, family pressures and problems, coping skills, self-esteem, decision-making, goal setting, values, relationships, communication/assertiveness, and resistance skills.
• Establish healthy, genuine relationships with school staff, students and families involved in the programs.
• Screen youth identified as having Substance Abuse issues that warrant more intensive SUD treatment.
• Refer youth to appropriate treatment services.
• Participate in PYD community awareness events.
• Market programs to potential collaborative partners, schools and/or volunteers. Participate in community expos.
• Establish and maintain collaborative relationships with community organizations.
• Participate as an active member in a community coalition.
• Complete all paperwork in a timely and professional manner.
• Develop, adapt and facilitate curriculum that engages youth.
• Communicate all program elements, such as schedule and special events, to parties involved with PYD program including students, parents, volunteers, site, and agency in a timely manner.
• Maintain program budget in coordination with Coordinator and Wedgwood’s Finance Department.
• Professional Growth and Development:
  • Regular participation in supervision meetings and team meetings for the sharing of ideas, feedback and department planning
  • Express ideas, suggestions, and concerns in a timely and appropriate manner, using established channels and opportunities to seek resolution.
  • Attend ongoing trainings to stay current in research trends and effective programming related to positive youth development areas of specialization.
  • Contribute to the team’s growth by facilitating a team training once throughout the year.
• Responsible for timely Quality Assurance compliance as related to employee’s roles and functions.
• Regular, predictable, and reliable attendance is an essential function of this position. The employee must maintain a consistent work schedule and be available during the assigned hours to perform the duties of this role.
• Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in social work or related field.
• Ability to work independently to achieve program goals.
• Group facilitation experience preferred.
• Ability to facilitate small group intervention groups for at risk youth.
• Substance abuse prevention/education experience including knowledge of referral processes.
• Ability and willingness to travel as needed and to use personal vehicle to fulfill job responsibilities.
• Subscription to the Statement of Faith of Wedgwood Christian Services and agreement with the goal, purpose, and objectives of the agency.

Pay Rate: $21.00 hourly

Wedgwood Christian Services

Since 1960, Wedgwood Christian Services has been dedicated to boldly taking on the toughest problems facing children and families through residential care, counseling services and community programs. Leaning on our faith and core values of integrity, compassion, excellence, and diversity, we tackle the crucial work of supporting and restoring the wellbeing of all those who call West Michigan home.

Mission: Wedgwood Christian Services extends God's love to youth, adults, and families through professional counseling and educational services.

Core Values: Integrity, Compassion, Excellence, and Diversity

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