YTDM Facilitator - PT (56056)

YSS is looking for a Youth Transition Decision-Making (YTDM) Facilitator to join our Family Life Center team in Ames. In this role, you'll help youth involved in foster care or court-appointed placement build confidence, strengthen their support network, and make informed decisions about what's next. You'll coordinate and facilitate youth-led meetings that bring together family members, professionals, and other trusted adults to create a plan for a successful transition into adulthood.

From the first referral to the final follow-up, you'll guide the process with compassion, organization, and a commitment to ensuring every young person's voice is heard.

This hybrid role offers the best of both worlds! You'll split your time between working in office AND traveling throughout Central Iowa. Travel occurs within the following counties: Green, Guthrie, Story, Boone, Marshall, Tama, Jasper, and Poweshiek. This position offers up to 20 hours per week, with actual hours varying based on referral volume and program needs.

What You'll Do...

Empower Youth

• Build trusting relationships that help youth feel confident, prepared, and ready to lead their YTDM meetings.
• Coach youth before, during, and after meetings so their goals, strengths, and voice remain at the center of every conversation.
• Provide basic assessments and case management to support each youth's transition planning.
• Help ensure each youth's immediate safety and basic needs are addressed whenever possible.

Coordinate the Process

• Manage referrals and guide each youth through the YTDM process from start to finish.
• Gather information from child welfare staff and other partners to prepare for successful meetings.
• Schedule meetings, coordinate logistics, and invite family members, professionals, and other supportive adults.
• Prepare meeting materials and ensure everyone has what they need for a productive discussion.

Facilitate Meaningful Conversations

• Lead engaging, youth-centered meetings where every participant feels welcomed, respected, and heard.
• Encourage collaboration while helping the team create practical, youth-driven plans for the future.
• Distribute and collect post-meeting surveys to support continuous program improvement.

Collaborate & Stay Connected

• Build strong partnerships with schools, employers, therapists, child welfare staff, and other community supports.
• Maintain regular communication with partners to help youth stay connected to services and resources.
• Participate in team meetings, supervision, and ongoing professional development.

Keep Things Running Smoothly

• Maintain accurate documentation, meeting notes, and reports within required timelines.
• Ensure all services comply with YTDM contract requirements, policies, and best practices.
• Continue learning and applying the principles of youth engagement, cultural responsiveness, and trauma-informed care.
• Transport youth to meetings or program activities as needed.

This is not a complete list of the responsibilities of this position. Duties may change at any time.

Who You Are...

You're a natural encourager who believes young people deserve a seat at the table when decisions about their future are made. You know how to bring people together, build trust, and create a space where youth feel confident, supported, and empowered to lead the conversation.

What We Provide...

We invest in people—because when you thrive, so do the communities we serve. At YSS, you’ll find meaningful work, strong support, and benefits designed for real life.

• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Recognition Program
• Personal Wellness Programs
• Pet Insurance Discounts
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Qualified Employer
• Retirement Savings Opportunities
• Ongoing Training and Professional Development