idealist.org

The Institute for Health and Recovery is seeking a full-time Youth Engagement Specialist for the Ladder Project, a federally funded grant to be implemented with a partner agency in southeastern Massachusetts: the High Point Treatment Program. The Ladder Project will work with for transition age youth (ages 18-24) in Norfolk and Plymouth Counties, who have been civilly committed as a result of their use of alcohol and other drugs, and who often struggle from mental health issues and the effects of trauma. Youth Engagement Specialist will provide an assertive, positive, strength-based approach to working with transition age youth (ages 18-24) and their families affected by the youth’s substance use.

The position is full-time and is based in Brockton, MA. The position is supervised by the Ladder Project Coordinator.

Major Responsibilities:
• Assess all youth using Global Appraisal of Individual Needs (GAIN) instrument
• Provide assertive case management to youths and parents/caregivers during and after their transition from residential treatment to the community
• Deliver A-CRA/ACC intervention to youth and their family/caregivers in homes and the community
• Working closely with treatment providers to coordinate and implement services, provide other wrap around services to youth and their families such as care management, access to transportation and child care, etc.
• Participate in training and become certified in GAIN, A-CRA and ACC
• Attend staff meetings of the LADDER Project and IHR
• Gather information as required using GAIN and GPRA at baseline, three, six and twelve months to achieve program outcomes
• Participate in collecting evaluation data

Qualifications/Requirements:
• Advanced degree in social work, counseling, psychology or related field
• Previous experience working with transition-age youth, families, mental health, and substance use issues
• Previous experience providing home- and community-based treatment
• Ability to work effectively with individuals and families from diverse cultural backgrounds
• Demonstrated oral and written communication skills
• Energetic and flexible
• Must have access to a reliable vehicle and a valid Massachusetts Drivers’ License

IHR offers a rewarding work environment with competitive salary, generous benefits and a strong commitment to diversity. The applicant for this position openly understands & promotes diverse cultures & is aware of personal beliefs & lack of information that could impede cultural sensitivity. IHR will provide cultural competence trainings addressing areas of need. AA/EEO.

Please forward formal cover letter and resume to Human Resources, Institute for Health and Recovery, Inc, 349 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02139 or (preferred) email to hr@healthrecovery.org