Youth Programs Specialist

at  Big Brothers Big Sisters of Toronto

AT BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS TORONTO (BBBST), OUR VISION IS TO BUILD THRIVING COMMUNITIES BY EMPOWERING LIVES THROUGH MENTORSHIP.

Job Title: Youth Programs Specialist – Pump for Post-Secondary (PFPS)
Reports to: Manager, Group Programs
Summary:
This role will facilitate Group-Based Programming, with a focus on the PFPS program and !gnite Programs.
PFPS is a partnership between BBBST and Post-Secondary institutions. This program is designed to benefit high school students who are interested in a post-secondary mentorship experience.
!gnite Mentoring Programs are group-based curriculum programs aimed to empower young people between the grades of 6-8. The programs are facilitated by volunteer mentors who are trained and supported by a BBBST Programs Specialist.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Undergraduate Degree or Diploma in a relevant discipline or at least 3 years of experience in social service area in youth programming
• Experience facilitating groups of adolescents in recreational or educational settings.
• Experience working with people of diverse socioeconomic/cultural backgrounds.
• Passion for working with children/youth and families
• Understanding of youth development/engagement
• Work within an anti-oppressive framework
• Positive and enthusiastic approach to work
• Values trust, respect, communication, collaboration, accountability, and integrity.
• Strong problem solving and interviewing skills
• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Ability to collect meaningful data and draw solid conclusions
• Execute roles and responsibilities with integrity and professionalism
• Assume responsibility for professional development
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Word, Outlook, Access, Power Point and Excel
• Ability to work flexible hours to meet client needs, including evenings and some weekends
• Travel to local schools, communities, and neighborhoods. Having a vehicle is an asset but not necessary.
• This position requires in-office work as well as regular travel to Toronto communities and neighborhoods.
• First Aid and CPR training is an asset
• Successful Vulnerable Sector Clearance Police Record Check Required

• Coordinate and deliver youth mentoring programs that are in line with BBBST’s vision and mission and benefits high priority communities, children, youth, and their families.
• Support the Youth Services Committee. This is an internal agency committee that meets to discuss youth engagement, youth events, and youth opportunities.
• Attend regular scheduled Team meetings to discuss service delivery, agency expectations, and case consultation.
• Identify and work closely with appropriate school partners to ensure the successful service delivery of the group programs.
• Recruit mentors and mentees to support group programs in collaboration with school liaisons, partners, and the BBBST Community Engagement Team.
• Conduct assessment interviews of adult mentors, evaluating their suitability for program involvement, paying particular attention to potential risks.
• During the summer months participate in the Cross Team Support initiatives as directed by the Director of Service Delivery.
• Facilitate mentor training/orientation sessions as required by BBBSC National Standards.
• Assist mentors in program planning/scheduling, delivery, and evaluation.
• Supervise all interactions between mentors and mentees in the PFPS programs.
• Support and create a safe, fun, and nurturing group environment for mentors and mentees.
• Provide ongoing training opportunities and support to mentors.
• Conduct mandatory pre-match training with mentees and mentors prior to program participation.
• Adhere to match support guidelines according to BBBSC National Standards for Site Based Group and School Based Group Programs.
• Ensure high-level proficiency in applying child safety and risk management knowledge, policies and procedures throughout all aspects of job function to identify potential safety issues.
• Maintain strict confidentiality and conform to the privacy statement, adhering to BBBST’s Policies and Procedures.
• Collaborate with other BBBST Service Delivery staff to ensure the highest level of school and site-based programming.
• Adhere to BBBST case noting expectations
• Conduct Ministry of Education Surveys as requested.
• Identify and promote re-engagement of mentees, mentors, and school partners.
• Attend agency events, including but not limited to the Winter Party, Celebration of Friendship Picnic, Big Night Out and others as requested.
• Attend quarterly meetings with Manager and Director of Service Delivery to review goals and assess professional development.
• Complete a yearly performance appraisal including goals/targets for the coming year.
• Other duties as assigned by BBBST Stewards.