ARK Assistant

Adapt Forward; Modesto (CA); On-site; USD 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Adapt Forward in Modesto, CA, is hiring for a role focused on mentoring youth in the Art Restores Kids (ARK) program. This position involves facilitating workshops, fostering relationships, and supporting youth in identifying safe pathways.

Candidates should have a background relevant to human services, be 18 years or older, and possess the ability to communicate effectively with youth. The role requires active engagement and a commitment to student interaction throughout each day.

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• Reliable transportation required.
• Be able to walk, move quickly, and bend throughout the day.

Responsibilities

• Assist in implementing the ARK program at schools.
• Build relationships with youth clients through workshops.
• Use trauma-informed practices to mentor youth.
• Facilitate workshops using AWBW Curriculum.

Skills

Trauma-informed care

Effective communication

Team collaboration

Problem-solving

Multi-tasking

Creativity

Patience

Education

High School Diploma/GED

College experience in Human Services

Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work or related field

Tools

Word

Excel

PowerPoint

Job description

Job Description

• Assist in the implementation of the Art Restores Kids (ARK) program at schools, Cricket’s House and Camp Cricket summer program.
• Build healthy relationships with youth clients through facilitation of workshops utilizing art, music and/or other activities.
• Be a positive role model for youth, helping them identify healthy, safe and successful pathways.
• Use trauma‑informed practices to mentor youth and refer to appropriate community resources.

Expected Outcomes or Key Accountabilities

• Develop and demonstrate understanding of trauma‑informed services for youth as outlined in the Art Restores Kids Training Handbook by providing positive mentorship, redirection and promoting non‑violent behaviors.
• Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the Art Restores Kids (ARK) Program and how it operates within Cricket’s Hope by accurately presenting program’s purpose, components and procedures to clients, community organizations, school sites and the public.
• Become familiar with youth‑related difficulties as well as appropriate interventions by learning how trauma, violence, substance use, mental health and poverty impact children and referring clients to appropriate community resources.
• Complete intake process and maintain client files using Parent Permission to Participate forms, photo releases and other necessary documentation.
• Facilitate workshops with youth participants using AWBW Curriculum, utilizing a variety of materials identified in curriculum including paint, oil pastels, beads, clay, etc.
• Display ability to work as part of a team by co‑facilitating workshops and progressively learning to lead all workshop components including warm‑ups, activities, check‑out and providing backup to address individual crisis and/or behavioral needs.
• Plan workshops using A Window Between Worlds (AWBW) curriculum to effectively address clients’ needs. Selecting workshops according to topic, number of participants, time and materials available.
• Prepare for workshops by identifying and gathering supplies and materials as outlined in our curriculum.
• Foster social cohesion within groups by promoting respectful relations and focusing on nonviolent behaviors.
• Track workshop attendance using Excel spreadsheets to be used in reports for Board of Directors and grant purposes.
• Promote Pathways to Purpose program by acting as mentor and acknowledging participants’ strengths, talents and gifts and encouraging them to find ways to use them.
• Provide a model for a healthy, trusting relationship through clear communication and setting appropriate boundaries.
• Participate in Camp Cricket by helping children prepare for a weeklong camp experience and attending camp.
• Assist with event coordination by contacting donors, vendors, organizing donations, preparing venues, etc.
• Work as part of a team, taking some leadership roles when appropriate, but also helping behind‑the‑scenes and helping with the operation of Cricket’s Hope.
• Keep a consistent and regular schedule as agreed upon with the Executive Director and/or Program Specialist.
• Follow or adhere to the Art Restores Kids Training handbook and employee handbook as appropriate.

Competencies Needed

• The ability to:
• Develop and maintain good relationships with staff and children.
• Be innovative, creative and take initiative.
• Communicate effectively and be open to feedback.
• Collaborate, foster and encourage teamwork.
• Display lots of energy, as the ARK multiple location/classes and camp days are long, active and filled with lots of fun but, there is not a lot of “down time”.
• Exhibit great patience and problem‑solving skills.
• Have a sense of adventure and wonder that can be shared with the ARK participants and campers.

Trained Skills Needed

• Trauma‑informed care (basic understanding)
• Ability to multi‑task, problem solve and prioritize work
• Self‑sufficient and resourceful
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint and the internet

Education and Experience

Required

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• High School Diploma/GED or equivalent.
• College experience in the area of Human Services or related work experience is necessary to be a successful candidate.
• Reliable transportation or effective way to travel to Cricket’s House.
• Be able to walk, move quickly, reach, bend and stoop throughout the day.
• Have adequate energy to actively engage with students throughout the work day.
• Pass background check.

Desirable

• Bachelor’s Degree or Candidate for Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Sociology, or related field.
• Experience working with children affected by trauma.
• Bi‑Linguistic.