AmeriCorps Youth Engagement

Who We Are

The North State Rural AmeriCorps Hope Project (NSRAHP) is an AmeriCorps State and National (ASN) program of Pathways to Hope for Children (PHC). The mission and vision of PHC is: to promote a local culture that values all children and families and a community where all children are valued, nurtured, protected, and therefore will reach their full potential.

Pathways to Hope for Children is a leading organization dedicated to preventing child abuse and strengthening families within Shasta County. Established in 1987, we offer a comprehensive range of programs and services, including community outreach, youth development, family support, and child abuse prevention education.

Our North State Rural AmeriCorps Hope Project plays a vital role in delivering direct services to at-risk families and youth. AmeriCorps members provide essential support, education, and resources to help individuals and families overcome challenges such as child abuse, neglect, and poverty. By working closely with community partners, we create a robust safety net for those in need.

Our shared mission is to break the cycle of poverty and trauma, empowering individuals and families to build brighter futures. By investing in the next generation, we create stronger communities. Our AmeriCorps members are at the forefront of this vital work.

Values and Guiding Principles

• • Trauma-Informed Care: Understanding and addressing the impact of trauma on individuals and families.
  • Empowerment: Supporting families and youth in developing the skills and resources to achieve their goals.
  • Collaboration: Partnering with community agencies to provide comprehensive support services.
  • Evidence-Based Practices: Utilizing proven strategies to achieve the best outcomes.
  • Equity: Ensuring equal access to services for all families, regardless of background or circumstances.

What We’re Looking For

Minimum Required Qualifications

• Must be 18 years or older (no upper age limit)
• Must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or lawful permanent resident of the U.S.
• Must participate in a national service criminal history background check
• Must be a high school graduate, GED recipient, or working towards attaining a high school diploma or GED during term of service and prior to utilizing the educational awards
• Must be able to commit to service for the full program term

Desired Skills and Experience

This position requires flexibility, adaptability, and a passion for making a difference in the lives of young people

Essential Skills:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills: Building rapport and trust with youth.
• Patience and empathy: Understanding and responding to the needs of diverse youth.
• Crisis management: Ability to handle challenging situations calmly and effectively.
• Organization and time management: Effectively managing multiple tasks and responsibilities.
• Cultural competence: Respecting and understanding diverse backgrounds and experiences.
• Teamwork and collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues and community partners.

Preferred Experience:

• Experience working with youth in a mentoring or recreational setting.
• Knowledge of youth development theories and practices.
• Familiarity with community resources and support systems.
• Experience in program planning and implementation.

Additional Desirable Skills:

• Bilingual or multilingual abilities.

What You’ll Do

NSRAHP Youth Engagement Assistant

Member role and responsibilities in the AmeriCorps focus area of Economic Opportunity include our NSRAHP Youth Mentors, dedicated to empowering families & youth with school readiness ages 0-18 within Shasta County.

The Youth Engagement Assistant empowers and supports young individuals and staff within the organization. This position involves providing training, mentoring, and engagement opportunities for Peer Court participants, and undertaking case management responsibilities for youth referred to the program. The Youth Engagement Assistant will work closely with youth, promoting their active involvement and fostering their personal growth and development.

Your day-to-day activities will include:

1. 1. Case Management:
   • Provide case management services to respondents, providing guidance and support throughout the Peer Court process, and encouraging engagement with the Peer Advocate assigned.
   • Conduct thorough assessments and develop individualized case plans to address the needs and challenges of respondents.
   • Maintain accurate and up-to-date case records documenting interactions, progress, and outcomes.
   • Collaborate with relevant stakeholders, including attorneys, social workers and probation officers, to ensure comprehensive support for respondents.
   1. Assist the Peer Court Coordinator in connecting youth with the community:
   • Assist the Peer Court Coordinator in developing and delivering training for Peer Court participants, including legal procedures, conflict resolution, and effective communication skills.
   • Support the Peer Court Coordinator in mentoring and guiding Peer Court participants, fostering their understanding of justice principles, promoting restorative Justice, and encouraging personal growth.
   • Create opportunities for engagement and community involvement for Peer Court participants, organizing volunteer activities and community outreach events.
   1. Administrative Assistance:
   • Assist in scheduling appointments, meetings, and events, including coordinating logistics and preparing necessary materials.
   • Provide administrative support to staff members, including preparing reports, presentations, and other documents as needed.
   • Organize and maintain accurate records, files, and databases related to youth programs, case management, and organizational activities.
2. Coordinate Youth Action Council (YAC):
   • Facilitate regular meetings and activities of the Youth Action Council (YAC), ensuring active participation and meaningful engagement of council members.
   • Collaborate with YAC members and community partners to develop and implement initiatives, events, and projects that address youth-related issues and positively impact the community.
   • Provide guidance and support to YAC members, nurturing their leadership skills, and empowering them to be effective.

A strong commitment to youth well-being, coupled with excellent interpersonal skills and a patient demeanor, is crucial for success in this role.

Members will have an orientation/onboarding process to include training on AmeriCorps prohibited and unallowable activities per 45 CFR §2520.65.

What You’ll Gain

Participation as an AmeriCorps Member with the North State Rural AmeriCorps Hope Project has many benefits including:

• Living Allowance of up to $30,000. (Living Allowance of up to $30,000. (Living allowance will be distributed bi-weekly beginning October 15, 2024, for the amount of $1304.57.)
• Healthcare coverage for FT members
• Childcare assistance for FT members if eligible.
• Segal Education Award in the amount of $7395.00 upon successful completion of service (1700 hrs.).
• FT Members (1700 hr.) only: California For All Education Award in the amount of $2,605 upon successful completion of service; to supplement the Segal Education Award for a total of $10,000 combined.
• Student Loan Deferment & Interest Forbearance if eligible.
• Member Development to include training, networking, personal and professional development opportunities that can be utilized and will be valued by future employers after service term is completed. This includes certification in Mandated Child Abuse Reporter Training (MCART), Adult and Youth Mental Health First Aid, AED/CPR First Aid, and more. These skills are invaluable for a career in social services or related fields.
• Opportunity to develop leadership skills and to test future career opportunities.
• A sense of pride and accomplishment serving alongside influential members in your community as you pave the way towards a common goal.
• AmeriCorps members develop a robust skill set that includes:
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills: Building rapport, active listening, and effective communication with diverse populations.
  • Cultural competency: Understanding and respecting diverse cultures, beliefs, and perspectives.
  • Crisis intervention and problem-solving: Responding to urgent situations and developing effective solutions.
  • Advocacy and resource coordination: Advocating for clients/youths' needs and connecting them to appropriate services.
  • Trauma-informed care: Understanding the impact of trauma and providing supportive services.
  • Goal setting and empowerment: Assisting clients/youth in developing and achieving their goals.
  • Time management and organizational skills: Balancing multiple tasks and responsibilities within a fast-paced environment.