Youth Mentor

About Lutheran Services Florida

Lutheran Services Florida (LSF) envisions a world where children are safe, families are strong, and communities are vibrant. With 60 programs across the state serving a wide range of populations in need, LSF is a mission-driven organization where staff become part of a community dedicated to transforming the lives of those in need. The organization offers growth opportunities for employees to explore areas of interest within the organization while delivering high-quality services to the community.

About the Role

We are seeking talented Youth Mentors to make a tangible impact in the lives of at-risk youth residing in our male and female group homes. This is a direct service delivery position focused on providing quality care and ensuring a safe, secure environment for adolescent teens who may exhibit aggressive behaviors or have been impacted by abuse, neglect, and trauma.

The ideal candidate is someone who is not intimidated by challenging behaviors and possesses the ability to be a mentor. You will work with youth to develop appropriate behaviors and independent living skills while fostering a supportive environment. This role requires a willingness to work with challenging behaviors while maintaining the ability to make a positive difference in the youth's life.

Day in the Life

As a Youth Mentor, you will provide direct supervision and care to youth residents. Your day will involve assisting children with daily routines such as preparing meals, taking baths, maintaining hygiene, and administering medication. You will be responsible for developing and coordinating daily recreational and social activities, including outdoor programs and physical exercise.

A significant part of the role involves transporting individual and groups of children for appointments or field trips outside the facility. You will also maintain the facility by assigning and supervising chores, performing light housekeeping, and ensuring the residential setting remains neat and orderly. Communication is key; you will consult with shift leaders and professional staff regarding behavior issues and participate in the implementation of client case plans. Additionally, you will conduct group meetings to discuss issues, document observations and incidents, and provide responsive services to external agencies, including the Department of Children's Families and the Department of Juvenile Justice.

Schedule and Location

This position operates on a 2 PM to 10 PM schedule and requires availability to work weekends. While the position is assigned to a primary location, it may require working at any one of a number of regional group homes within a reasonable radius as shift needs arise. The role demands physical agility to perform interventions, de-escalation techniques, and operate in various environments, including indoor residential settings and outdoor recreational spaces in all weather conditions.

Hiring Process and Requirements

Candidates must hold a High School diploma, GED, or equivalency certification. Post-secondary education in a Human Service field is preferred. One year of experience working with youth or troubled youth in an organized setting is preferred. Essential qualifications include a valid Florida driver's license, proof of active insurance, and certification in CPR/First Aid and crisis intervention.

Lutheran Services Florida is mandated to perform background screenings for employment in accordance with the Florida Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse. All applicants will be subject to these screenings as outlined in Section 435.12, Florida Statutes.

Equal Opportunity and Culture

LSF is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We consider qualified applicants regardless of background and require all staff to demonstrate sensitivity to the service population's cultural and socioeconomic characteristics and needs. We are committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for both our staff and the youth we serve.