Refugee Independent Living Coach - Full Time - Lansing, MI

Samaritas; Lansing (MI); On-site; USD 20,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

Samaritas in Lansing, MI is hiring an Independent Living Coach to support young men in their transition to independent adulthood. You will provide life skills training, mentorship, and individualized coaching to help youth build practical skills and confidence.

The role focuses on budgeting, housing stability, education and employment readiness, with frequent collaboration with case managers and community partners. Some evenings and field work are possible.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or completion of at least 60 semester hours or 95 quarter hours in a related field.
• Bachelor's degree in Social Work or a related Human Services field is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide individualized life skills education and mentoring to youth in the Independent Living Program.
• Teach budgeting, meal preparation, household management, time management and other daily living skills.
• Assist youth in developing communication, decision-making and self-advocacy abilities.

Skills

Life skills education

Mentoring

Coaching

Communication

Education

Associate degree or 60 credit hours

Bachelor's degree in Social Work or related field

Tools

MS Office

Electronic documentation systems

Job description

Now Hiring: Refugee Independent Living Coach

Location: Lansing, MI
Status: Full Time
Wage: $18.00/hour
Schedule: 8:30 am - 5 pm

Help Young Adults Build the Skills and Confidence to Thrive!

The transition to adulthood can be challenging, especially for male youth who may not have the support systems many others rely on. As an Independent Living Coach for this male group home, you'll play a critical role in helping young people develop the skills, confidence, and resources needed to live independently and build successful futures.

This is more than a coaching position. It's an opportunity to mentor, encourage, and empower youth as they prepare for adulthood. You'll help them navigate real-life challenges, celebrate achievements, and gain the tools needed to reach their full potential.

Why Samaritas?

Samaritas is a Michigan-based, faith-driven human services organization committed to empowering individuals and transforming communities. Our work is rooted in compassion, service, and meaningful impact.

When you join Samaritas, you become part of a mission-driven team dedicated to helping people overcome barriers and create brighter futures.

Join us and be the rock. #BeTheRock

About the Role

The Independent Living Coach provides individualized life skills education, mentoring, coaching, and support to youth participating in the Independent Living Program (ILP). Working closely with youth, case managers, service providers, and community partners, you'll help participants build the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully transition into independent adulthood.

What You'll Do

• Provide a minimum of four hours of life skills education per youth each week.
• Teach budgeting, meal preparation, household management, personal care, time management, and other daily living skills.
• Help youth develop communication, decision-making, self-advocacy, and problem-solving abilities.
• Encourage personal responsibility, accountability, and self-sufficiency.

Support Goal Achievement

• Assess strengths, needs, and readiness for independent living.
• Assist youth in developing and achieving individualized goals.
• Monitor progress and adjust strategies to support success.
• Provide ongoing encouragement, coaching, and mentorship.

Promote Education, Employment, and Housing Stability

• Support educational achievement and career exploration.
• Assist with employment readiness and workforce development activities.
• Help youth prepare for and secure housing opportunities.
• Connect participants with community resources and support services.

Collaborate with Community Partners

• Work closely with case managers, supervisors, service providers, educators, employers, and support networks.
• Coordinate services that align with youth goals and program expectations.
• Participate in meetings and consultations focused on youth success.

Maintain Documentation and Compliance

• Complete assessments, plans, progress notes, and reports accurately and on time.
• Ensure compliance with agency, licensing, and program requirements.
• Maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries at all times.

What Makes This Role Meaningful?

Success in this position isn't measured only by documentation and program outcomes. It's measured by the young adult who learns how to manage a budget, secures stable housing, lands their first job, enrolls in school, or gains the confidence to believe in their future.

Every skill taught and every goal achieved creates an opportunity for lasting independence and success.

Qualifications

Education

Required:

• Associate degree or completion of at least 60 semester hours or 95 quarter hours in a related field.

Preferred:

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work or a related Human Services field.

Experience

Preferred:

• Experience working with adolescents or young adults.
• One year of experience supporting older youth populations.
• Bi-lingual in Spanish strongly preferred.

Skills and Abilities

• Passion for supporting youth and helping others succeed.
• Strong coaching, mentoring, and relationship-building skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and electronic documentation systems.
• Commitment to professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical practice.

Working Conditions

This position includes a blend of office, residential, community-based, and field work settings. The role requires flexibility, as some evening and non-traditional hours may be necessary to meet youth needs.

Regular local travel is required to youth homes, schools, employers, community locations, and service providers.

Candidates must possess:

• A valid driver's license.
• Reliable transportation.
• Appropriate vehicle insurance.

Why Join Samaritas?

At Samaritas, you'll have the opportunity to make a direct and lasting impact on the lives of young people. You'll join a team that values compassion, innovation, collaboration, and service while helping youth build the foundation for lifelong success.

If you're passionate about mentoring, coaching, and empowering young adults, we'd love to hear from you.

#BeTheRock #YouthServices #IndependentLiving #HumanServices #CommunityImpact #Mentorship #SocialServices #spanish #youth #teens #residential