Youth and Family Specialist

vq-career-page; Dover (DE); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

VisionQuest (VQ) is seeking a Youth and Family Specialist to deliver community-based services to at-risk youth involved in the juvenile justice system in Delaware. You will work under the Program Supervisor to ensure timely and effective service delivery to youth and their families.

You will advocate within the system, connect families to emergency resources, coordinate with probation officers, and help navigate complex services while upholding program standards and documentation requirements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in human services, social services, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in child welfare or related standards preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct services to at-risk youth and families per program requirements.
• Advocate for youth and families within the system and support self-advocacy.
• Facilitate programs like Aggression Replacement Training and Casey Life Skills.
• Maintain detailed records and input data within two business days.
• Ensure compliance with policies and regulations.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Compassionate approach

Organizational skills

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services

Job description

Work That Matters. Support That Lasts.

At VisionQuest (VQ), we serve children, youth, and families during some of the most critical moments of their lives. Our teams help young people overcome challenges, build resilience, and move toward brighter futures.

VQ is a national child, youth, and family services organization providing residential programming, community-based services, and in-home support across the United States. We partner with state and federal agencies to deliver services where the need is greatest and to strengthen the communities we serve.

Every role at VQ contributes to meaningful impact. Whether working directly with youth or supporting the professionals who serve them, your work helps create opportunity and stability for the next generation.

Why build your career at VQ?

• -Purpose-driven work: Every role contributes to helping children and families succeed.
• -Fair and responsible compensation: We are committed to transparent and equitable pay practices.
• -Career growth opportunities: Internal promotions and leadership development pathways.
• -Professional leadership culture: Accountable, supportive leadership focused on long-term success.

-Comprehensive Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Company-paid Life and Short-Term Disability
• 401(k) with employer match

At VQ, we are building more than programs.
We are building careers that make a difference.

The Youth and Family Specialist provides direct, community-based services to at-risk youth involved in the juvenile

justice system. This role supports youth and their families by addressing day-to-day challenges, facilitating

connections to emergency services, and advocating within the system. Working under the direction of the Program

Supervisor, the Youth and Family Specialist ensures the effective delivery of services requested by Delaware DSCYF

Probation Officers (POs) and supports families in navigating complex systems.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Service Delivery and Advocacy:
  • Provide direct services to youth and their families as outlined by program requirements, including, but not limited to (Accountability, Community Service, Guided Recreation, and Family Meetings, etc.)
  • Support parents by addressing the challenges of raising children with emotional and behavioral needs.
  • Assist families in navigating system processes and translating technical jargon to ensure clarity and understanding.
  • Advocate for youth and families within the system, fostering confidence and skills to empower self-advocacy.
• Facilitation and Coordination:
  • Co-facilitate programs such as Aggression Replacement Training, Cognitive-Behavioral Skills, Casey Life Skills, Girls Self-Esteem, and Street Smart.
  • Conduct regular check-ins with the Program Supervisor to review service delivery and address the needs of youth and families.
  • Coordinate with families and community resources to provide emergency services when required, including police or crisis hotline interventions.
• Documentation and Compliance:
  • Maintain detailed records of all family and youth interactions, services provided, and communications with probation officers and external agencies.
  • Input all service data into VisionQuest’s Extended Reach database within two (2) business days of completion.
  • Adhere to all company policies, procedures, and state regulations to ensure compliance with program standards.
• Other tasks and responsibilities as assigned by supervisors.

SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Excellent interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to listen actively and build trust.
• Compassionate and supportive approach to working with youth and families.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving capabilities.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s Degree in human services, social services, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in child welfare or related standards preferred but not required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must be 21 years of age or older.
• Flexible schedule (daytime, flexible scheduling) to facilitate program services.
• Cleared background checks from appropriate entities.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and be eligible to drive to facilitate program services as required.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• May lift and carry up to 10 pounds frequently, up to 20 pounds occasionally, up to 50 pounds infrequently.
• Performs tasks that may involve standing or walking 50% of the day; sitting 50%of the day.
• May bend, stoop, reach and grasp as necessary.