YSS is looking for an empathetic empowering andtrust-buildingRapid Rehousing Youth Advocate (RRYA)to support young adults in their journey from homelessness to stability and independence. Based in Des Moines this role is part of our youth-focused Rapid Rehousing program serving individuals ages 18 to 24 who are transitioning from emergency shelters or living on the streets. As the RRYA your advocacy will help open doors create connections and empower youth to thrive as they take steps toward a brighter future.
As a RRYA youll walk alongside young people as they move into safe scattered-site housingoffering personalized one-on-one support to help them build the skills and stability needed for long-term success. Youll provide voluntary case management crisis intervention and resource navigation while fostering strong partnerships with landlords and community providers. Responsibilities include:
Housing Support & Stability
- Assess housing barriers for youth experiencing homelessness to determine service needs and create a path toward self-sufficiency and stability.
- Assist participants in locating securing and moving into housing with the support of local landlord partners.
- Develop individualized housing and case management plans including intake interviews to identify strengths needs goals and eligibility.
- Facilitate access to the Free Store and coordinate move-in logistics in collaboration with the Street Outreach Youth Advocate.
Advocacy & Community Coordination
- Provide mediation and advocacy with landlords to support housing placement and retention.
- Serve as a liaison between participants landlords and neighborsresolving conflicts and maintaining positive relationships.
- Connect participants with Iowa Legal Aid and other community-based supports as needed.
- Encourage youth to connect with their community through school clubs volunteer opportunities or social events to support personal growth and long-term stability.
- Refer participants to relevant social service agencies and community programs.
Participant Support& Life Skills Coaching
- Run Tenant Screening Reports for all participants prior to program entry.
- Meet one-on-one with participants weekly during the first 30 days of the program and biweekly thereafteror as appropriatebased on individual needs and with input from the RRYA Supervisor.
- Transport clients when necessary to help them achieve goals outlined in their case plan.
- Help participants establish financial independence including support in opening checking and savings accounts.
- Teach essential life skills related to independent living such as:
- Setting up and managing utilities
- Using kitchen appliances and cleaning best practices
- Grocery shopping cooking and managing food
- Mail service internet/cable setup
- Understanding lease terms and being a respectful neighbor
- Basic home maintenance and problem-solving (e.g. what does and doesnt go in a toilet)
This description is not a complete list of the responsibilities of this position. Duties may change at any time.
We celebrate the strength in your story.
Have you walked the path of recovery from addiction mental health challenges trauma or housing instability Are you driven to transform your experience into a source of strength and hope for others If so YSS wants to hear from you.
We believe your lived experience brings a compassionate and redemptive perspective that can inspire real change. By sharing your story and offering guidance as a role model and mentor you have the power to make a meaningful impact at YSS.
For those in recovery we typically ask for two years of sobriety to ensure stability and leadership readiness though we may consider candidates with one year on a case-by-case basis.
Your journey matters. If youre ready to use it to uplift and empower others we welcome your application.
What you can expect in return...
We believe in your potential we meet you where you are and we invest in your future. In addition to a welcoming workplace collaborative and supportive colleagues and mission-driven work that creates hope and opportunity by putting kids first YSS offers the following benefits for this position:
- Medical dental vision and life insurance
- Supplemental accident critical illness and hospital indemnity insurance
- Accrued PTO plus paid time off for holidays your birthday and volunteering
- Employee Assistance Program
- Employee recognition program
- Personal wellness programs
- Pet insurance discounts
- PSLF Program qualification
- Retirement offerings
- Training opportunities
This isnt just a job - its a chance to be the spark in someones story. If youre ready to inspire connect and lead with purpose apply today and become part of something meaningful at YSS.