Certified Prevention Specialist (FT)

Position Summary:

The Prevention Specialist works to ensure prevention services are designed, delivered and assessed effectively. The Prevention Specialist assists in the implementation of evidence-based school and community-level programs and strategies, including the Camp Mariposa program, Creating Lasting Family Connections, Two Good for Drugs/Violence, etc. Essential Job Functions include those listed below.

Essential Job Functions:

• Assists the Prevention Services Coordinator in all aspects of prevention for children, teens, adults and families;
• Co-facilitates psycho-educational support groups for individuals and families;
• Advocates for prevention, treatment and recovery services;
• Helps to plan both traditional and Teen camp schedules;
• Co-teaches the Too Good for Drugs/Violence curriculum within the school and community setting, to include youth attending camp and participating in after-school programs;
• Provides leadership to staff and Mentors during a Camp Mariposa weekend;
• Assists with the training of Mentors for Camp Mariposa, following guidelines established by Eluna, OJJDP and WestCare Ohio;
• Co-facilitates the Creating Lasting Family Connections program, specifically teaching the 1317 year-old class;
• Supports assessment of prevention services;
• Assists other WestCare staff as needed to promote cooperation and portray a professional image to the community;
• Participates in Quality Improvement activities on an ongoing basis;
• Embraces and embodies the mission, vision, guiding principles, clinical vision and goals of WestCare Foundation;
• Performs any other duties as assigned.

Certifications/Licensures:

• First Aid/CPR Certification required within 6 months of employment start;
• Valid drivers license and the ability to obtain and maintain WestCares vehicle insurance is required.

Education:

• Associates degree from an accredited four-year college, in social work, psychology, sociology, or other related field is preferred;
• Evidence of training in case management and/or prevention education training is required;
• High School Diploma or equivalent is required;

Experience and Competencies:

• Must be empathetic, compassionate, non-judgmental, enthusiastic, highly organized and capable of managing a large volume of activities and documentation;
• Excellent written and spoken communication skills required;
• Ability to establish rapport with disadvantaged individuals and families required;
• Evidence of teaching and facilitating/co-facilitating support groups required;
• Outstanding time management skills required;
• Must be comfortable in a fast-paced environment with multiple assignments;
• Professional demeanor and appearance required;
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team required;
• Must be proficient with the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, and Excel);
• Must be willing to participate in prevention training, including Too Good for Drugs/Violence, Creating Lasting Family Connections, and other curricula;
• Must demonstrate the ability to connect with both children and youth; understanding their perspectives and how to engage in meaningful conversations;
• Must understand the effects of trauma in the lives of children and families, and how to create programs that reduce trauma and create protective factors in their lives;
• Must demonstrate understanding of the importance of creating resiliency in children, specifically through connection, commitment and consistency;
• Must maintain confidentiality of information and materials, including HIPPA and 42CFR;
• Must demonstrate understanding of prevention strategies, and willingness to participate in the delivery of evidence-based prevention and early intervention services;
• Must attend prevention training through ADAMHS and other approved training providers;

Working Conditions:

• Work is primarily performed in an office or indoor setting;
• Work is performed in an office, within schools, and at various community sites, including outdoor camp facilities, treatment and recovery centers, hospitals, prisons/jails, and at police departments;
• Some home visits may be required when visiting individuals and families;
• Outdoor activities and travel between multiple locations may be required;
• Regular and prompt attendance is required throughout employment.