Under the supervision of the Director of Youth and Family Services, the Prevention Specialist will supervise the works with a group of boys ages 11-18 (J2M) in after school, school breaks and summer programs. The program is based on the 8 essential features of positive youth development programs (Physical and Psychological Safety, Appropriate Structure, Supportive Relationships, Opportunities to Belong, Positive Social Norms, Support for Efficacy and Mattering, Opportunities for Skill Building and Integration of Family, School, and Community Efforts). The Prevention Specialist implements and supervises activities in 4 core areas: Academic Enrichment, Career Development, Cultural Enrichment and Personal Development & Wellness. Wellness encompasses alcohol, tobacco, and drug abuse prevention amongst other traditional wellness focus. 

Essential Job Functions: 

• Coordinate, develop and execute an adolescent   substance abuse prevention plan.
• Provide students with opportunities to demonstrate their knowledge of alcohol, tobacco, and drug abuse prevention by participating in health fairs and various other community forums.
• Supervise a group of students in an instructional   setting, maintaining high standards for behavior and safety.
• Provide homework assistance; academic and cultural   enrichment; career, personal development, and wellness activities.  
• Assist in planning and delivering program activities   through discussions, hands-on activities, arts-based activities, community   projects, guest speakers, field trips and recreational activities.
• Support individual students in various settings   encouraging full participation in activities and relationship building among   students, staff, and volunteers.
• Monitor student behavior, reinforces positive   behavior and enforces behavior expectations
• Serve as a positive role model for students in the   program through appropriate dress, speech, and attitude.
•  Identify student and program needs and communicates those to teachers, staff, and volunteers as appropriate. Enter weekly notes on individual students and meet weekly with school staff and other service providers 
• Quarterly, monthly, and annual reporting
• Assist in set up for activities and keeping site clean.

• Associates degree in Human Services, or Certified Prevention Specialist, CASAC preferred.
•  A minimum of 3 years of experience teaching or working in school based and community-based programs with middle or high school students and their families; prior experience with diverse ethnic, gender, age, and cultural groups desired. Knowledge of substance abuse and addiction curriculum development helpful. 
•  PC skills to include Microsoft Office Word, Excel, PowerPoint; HRIS software, email, and Internet research. 
• Preferred ; NYS driver license and reliable transportation to have the ability to travel locally between facilities and to events/ meetings on as needed bases
• Must have the ability to work a flexible schedule and attend meetings and other events evenings and potentially weekends.