Youth Retention Specialist

Participant Engagement & RetentionDevelop and maintain supportive relationships with assigned youth participants.Monitor participant attendance, engagement, and progress toward program goals.Conduct regular one-on-one coaching sessions with participants.Identify individuals at risk of dropping out and implement intervention plans.Develop retention strategies that promote participant success and program completion.Maintain regular communication with participants through phone calls, text messages, email, and in-person meetings.Case ManagementAssess participant needs and barriers to employment, education, and training.Create and monitor Individual Service Strategies (ISS) or Individual Development Plans (IDP).Coordinate referrals to supportive services including:Transportation assistanceChildcare resourcesHousing assistanceMental health servicesEducational supportFinancial literacy resourcesDocument participant progress and services provided in required case management systems.Career and Academic SupportAssist participants in establishing educational and career goals.Support attainment of credentials, certifications, diplomas, or GEDs.Collaborate with instructors, counselors, and workforce partners to address participant concerns.Encourage participation in career development activities, workshops, and work-based learning experiences.Assist participants in transitioning to employment, post-secondary education, military service, or advanced training.Barrier ResolutionIdentify attendance, behavioral, academic, and personal issues impacting retention.Conduct intervention meetings with participants and stakeholders as needed.Develop action plans to address performance concerns.Provide crisis intervention and resource navigation when appropriate.Advocate on behalf of participants to secure needed services and support.Program Compliance & DocumentationMaintain accurate, timely, and complete participant records.Ensure compliance with federal, state, local, and organizational requirements.Track retention metrics, outcomes, and participant milestones.Prepare reports and case notes in accordance with organizational policies and funding requirements.Protect participant confidentiality and sensitive information.Community & Employer PartnershipsCollaborate with community organizations and service providers.Participate in outreach and engagement activities.Support participants during internships, work experiences, apprenticeships, and employment placements.Maintain relationships with employers to support participant success and retention.