AmeriCorps Advocate

Job Purpose and Reporting Structure:

Funded through a grant from the Federal AmeriCorps Member Program administered by the State of Wisconsin, AmeriCorps Members commit to a year of community service. Reduced Half-time positions will average 32 hours per week (minimum of 675 hours) during the grant period of now through August 31, 2026 and in return, receive a living allowance paid on the 15th and last day of the month ($8,100 total), plus an educational award of $2,817.14  upon successful term completion that can be used to pay off federally subsidized loans or to pay tuition at schools that accept federally subsidized loans. Quarter time positions will average 22 hours per week (minimum of 400 hours) during the grant period of now through August 31, 2026 and in return, receive a living allowance paid on the 15th and last day of the month ($5,400 total), plus an educational award of $1956.35 upon successful term completion that can be used to pay off federally subsidized loans or to pay tuition at schools that accept federally subsidized loans. Minimum time positions will average 15 hours per week (minimum of 300 hours) during the grant period of now through August 31, 2026 and in return, receive a living allowance paid on the 15th and last day of the month ($3,600 total), plus an educational award of $1,565.08 upon successful term completion that can be used to pay off federally subsidized loans or to pay tuition at schools that accept federally subsidized loans. Health insurance is available at no cost for AmeriCorps Members, and child care benefits assistance is provided to members who meet the required qualifications. Extensive pre-service and in-service training opportunities are required and are provided free of charge to participating AmeriCorps Members throughout Wisconsin.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:           

• Supervise the daily activities of runaway and homeless youth within the Pathfinders 24-hour licensed shelter. Provide support, care, supervision, and guidance for youth, which includes meeting physical, emotional, and crisis needs. Support youth in developing independent living skills such as cooking, cleaning and laundry. Provide positive role modeling, reinforce positive behavior and administer appropriate discipline as needed under the direction of the Youth and Family Advocate on shift. Provide family support and assistance. Develop professional skills in empathy, boundary setting, relationship building, active listening and trauma informed care by participating in the day-to-day activities of resident youth. Ensure meals are properly prepared and in compliance with established nutritional standards.
• Conduct youth intake assessments, assist callers utilizing the program’s crisis hotline, facilitate group.
• Accurately complete and maintain client files and program documentation.
• Additional duties include maintaining appearance and safety of the shelter facility.
• Position involves a variable work schedule that includes some overnight and weekend hours
• Other duties as assigned

Qualification/Requirements:

• Applicants must be at least 20 years old. Applicant must have a High School degree or its equivalent OR will work to obtain a HS diploma, GED, OR HSED during the term of service AND obtain a HS diploma, GED or HSED prior to using the Education Award AND have not dropped out of elementary or secondary school in order to enroll as an AmeriCorps member.
• At least two years related experience working with youth and families is preferred. Previous experience working within a youth residential setting is a plus.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Organized, reliable, and able to maintain privileged client information.
• Ability to work effectively within a nontraditional youth shelter setting with a diverse population.
• Must commit to the position for the full year from now through August 31, 2026.
• Position requires a Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday Overnight shift from 10:30pm-8:30am, shift on Saturdays from 6-11pm and other evening hours, typically 6-11pm but may include other hours. Reduced Half-Time position will require 2 overnights.