Youth Support Advocate - RELIEF

Kennedy-Donovan Center; New Bedford (MA); On-site; USD 43,000 - 45,000; Part time

Job summary

Kennedy-Donovan Center in New Bedford, MA seeks a Youth Support Advocate to provide direct care and oversight for children in an EEC-funded emergency shelter. You will work under leadership to ensure safety and positive development, responding to crises with trauma-informed care and collaboration with staff.

The role operates on a relief/as-needed schedule, with duties spanning intake/discharge, daily living support, and crisis response.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum 1 year of experience working with children or vulnerable youth.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed care and child development.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to respond effectively in crisis situations.
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule.
• Ability to complete required trainings (CPR, First Aid, SafetyCare).
• Successful completion of background checks per EEC requirements.

Responsibilities

• Provide a safe, structured, and supportive environment for children in care.
• Maintain required staff-to-child ratios in accordance with EEC guidelines.
• Build positive, supportive relationships and serve as a role model.
• Supervise children at all times to ensure safety and program compliance.
• Support activities of daily living (ADLs), including hygiene, meals, and routines.
• Facilitate social, recreational, and life skills development.
• Complete intake and discharge documentation accurately.
• Administer and document medications per agency policy (as applicable).
• Respond effectively to crises, including medical emergencies.
• Maintain accurate records and uphold strict confidentiality standards.
• Participate in required trainings, meetings, and professional development.
• Follow all organizational policies and regulatory requirements (EEC, DCF).

Skills

Trauma-informed care

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Crisis response

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Full job description Position Overview The Youth Support Advocate (YSA)

provides direct care, supervision, and support to children residing in

an EEC-funded emergency shelter. Working under Program Leadership, this

role ensures the safety, well-being, and positive development of

children experiencing crisis. This is an ideal opportunity for a

compassionate, patient, and energetic professional who is committed to

trauma-informed care and making a meaningful impact. Schedule: Relief /

As-Needed Compensation: $20.60

Key Responsibilities

• Provide a safe, structured, and supportive environment for children in care
• Maintain required staff-to-child ratios in accordance with EEC guidelines
• Build positive, supportive relationships and serve as a role model
• Supervise children at all times to ensure safety and program compliance
• Support activities of daily living (ADLs), including hygiene, meals, and routines
• Facilitate social, recreational, and life skills development
• Complete intake and discharge documentation accurately
• Administer and document medications per agency policy (as applicable)
• Respond effectively to crises, including medical emergencies
• Maintain accurate records and uphold strict confidentiality standards
• Participate in required trainings, meetings, and professional development
• Follow all organizational policies and regulatory requirements (EEC, DCF)

Why Join Us?

Make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families Gain hands-on experience in trauma-informed and residential care

Opportunities For Growth Within Human Services Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Minimum 1 year of experience working with children or vulnerable youth (residential, foster care, emergency settings, or similar)
• Knowledge of trauma-informed care and child development
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to remain calm and respond effectively in crisis situations
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule
• Ability to complete required trainings (CPR, First Aid, SafetyCare)
• Successful completion of background checks per EEC requirements

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Active role requiring standing, walking, bending, and participation in activities
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs as needed
• Work in a 24/7 residential setting (indoor and outdoor responsibilities)
• Exposure to varying noise levels and weather conditions
• Participation in routine household tasks (cleaning, organizing, etc.)
• Must maintain required certifications (CPR, First Aid, SafetyCare)
• High emotional awareness and resilience required due to crisis-related work