Job Description

Job Title: Youth Advocacy and Engagement Specialist (Case Manager)

Location Minneapolis Avenues (Onsite)

Reports To: Program Manager

Status: Full-Time, Hourly, Non-Exempt

Our Mission

At Avenues for Youth, we partner with youth experiencing homelessness to help them achieve housing stability and build pathways to independence. Through a social justice lens, we provide safe, affirming spaces where young people can define their futures, access resources, and thrive.

The Youth Advocacy and Engagement Specialist (Case Manager) provides direct, relationship-based support to youth experiencing homelessness within our emergency shelter and transitional housing programs. From intake through aftercare, this role partners with youth to help them define their goals, build life skills, and move toward stable, independent living. This position is fully onsite and works closely with youth in a hands-on, supportive environment.

Schedule

Monday – Friday, typically 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Schedule may be flexible based on program and youth needs

Primary Responsibilities

• Build supportive, trusting relationships with youth through consistent engagement and mentorship
• Complete assessments and develop individualized goal plans focused on housing, education, employment, and wellness
• Coach youth on independent living skills, including routines, financial literacy, and daily life management
• Provide crisis intervention and de-escalation support as needed
• Coordinate care with internal staff and external partners (mental health providers, schools, community resources, etc.)
• Support youth in transitioning from program services into stable, independent housing
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation in HMIS, including data entry, reporting, and housing referrals
• Model healthy communication, boundaries, and conflict resolution

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, Human Services, Education, or related field
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience (or equivalent combination of education and lived/work experience)
• Experience with trauma-informed care, harm reduction, and strengths-based approaches preferred
• Familiarity with HMIS, VI-SPDAT, or similar systems preferred
• Must be at least 24 years of age

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

This is an active, onsite role working directly with youth. Responsibilities may include standing, sitting, bending, and lifting up to 40 pounds.

Compensation & Benefits

• Pay range: $23.75 – $25.50/hour, depending on qualifications
• We offer health insurance with a strong employer contribution.
• 100% employer-paid dental, life, AD&D, and disability coverage
• Generous PTO and 8 paid holidays (including a floating holiday)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Commitment to Equity & Inclusion

Avenues for Youth is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage applications from people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals (including transgender and nonbinary applicants), veterans, and individuals with disabilities.