Member Jobs Board

Job Title: West River Valley Thrives (Thrives) Youth Engagement Specialist (YES)

Job Summary: In conjunction with other staff, this position is responsible for coordinating the implementation of youth program opportunities, outreach, and communication to meet the outcomes of the substance use prevention strategies of West River Valley Thrives (Thrives). The Youth Engagement Specialist will communicate through multiple channels to educate, coordinate, and build momentum around Thrives’ activities, best practices and initiatives to highlight and amplify youth voice. 

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Coordinate and manage Youth Empowerment groups for middle and high school students, meetings, activities, and mentorship opportunities with elementary schools.
• As a member of the Thrives’ team, help implement all work plans as developed by the coalition, including supporting Program Coordinator and Parent/Caring Adult engagement specialist with program activities, as able and encouraging youth participation.
• As a member of the Thrives’ team, assist the Director in ensuring grant compliance and reporting requirements; maintaining activity trackers, making note of challenges/barriers and writing success stories.
• Work with other Thrives staff to build strong relationships with community partners including local businesses, elementary schools, Middle and High school staff, municipal leaders, health care organizations, social service agencies, and other community groups to highlight youth voices and work with youth to advocate for opportunities for engagement within their community. 
• Coordinate all aspects of youth field trips and community activities/events.
• Representing Thrives at community meetings, statewide meetings, events, and other public forums, as needed and as it relates to youth engagement.
• Provide training opportunities for students. Provide opportunities for youth led training for school staff, peers and other members of the community, based on student interest.
• Based on student interest, work with students to develop and implement a youth led pod cast and other activities as needed such as Mental Health Awareness Month, Suicide Prevention, Great American Smoke out, etc. 
• Being a vital, enthusiastic, and supportive member of the Thrives team and our community partnerships.

Preferred skills and qualifications:

• Degree and/or equivalent experience related to substance misuse prevention, public health, education, youth development, health education and/or community engagement strongly preferred. 
• Leadership experience preferred 
• Commitment to health equity, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approaches.
• Experience or knowledge of restorative justice practices preferred
• Experience working with middle and high school aged youth preferred
• Strong written, verbal, computer, and public speaking skills
• Ability to write for and communicate effectively with diverse audiences
• Ability to work cooperatively with supervisor, community partners, co-workers, youth, parents, community members, and key leaders
• Capable of convening groups and organizing collective efforts around a common goal
• Organized, detail oriented, and able to follow through on multiple projects
• Knowledge of effective alcohol and drug prevention principles and strategies preferred
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, as well as part of a team
• Ability to take directions and openly listen to recommendations from supervisor
• Creativity, organization, initiative, and flexibility desirable
• Flexibility to work some nights and weekends as needed and at least two days a week during after school hours. 

Reports to: West River Valley Thrives Coalition Director

To Apply: Send resume and cover letter to [email protected]. We will be reviewing applications on a rolling basis and the position will remain open until filled. We are unable to consider applicants without a cover letter. If the resume submission platform does not allow for cover letters, please send cover letter directly to [email protected] 

Hours and Compensation: This is a 30-35 hour per week position eligible for generous benefits including paid time-off, health and dental insurance, and 403(b) retirement benefits. Starting rate, $22 per hour.