Job Description

YSS is on the lookout for a confident, competent, and big-hearted Part-Time, Self-Sufficiency Advocate to join our crew. Every day, young people come to YSS after surviving situations no one their age should have to face. Here, they find safety, support, and—maybe for the first time—real hope.

As a Self-Sufficiency Advocate, you’ll walk alongside former foster youth (ages 18–21) and PAL-eligible young adults as they take their first steps toward independence. You’ll guide them through assessments, case management, and all the practical pieces that help them build a stable, self-directed future.

PLEASE NOTE: This part-time position covers services provided in Lyon, Sioux, Osceola, O'Brien, Clay, and Dickinson counties.

In this role, you'll

• Carry out all responsibilities outlined in the Iowa Aftercare Services Network Contract.
• Meet face-to-face with each client at least twice a month—relationship-building is the name of the game.
• Stay up to speed on relevant sections of the Iowa Code.
• Connect with schools, employers, and therapists to help each young adult stay on track.
• Attend meetings and show up as the calm, organized force you are.
• Complete monthly billing accurately—yes, spreadsheets can be heroic.
• Maintain thorough documentation (your future self will thank you).
• Ensure immediate safety and support the basic needs of every young adult.
• Provide transportation when needed.

Please know this is not a complete list of the position’s responsibilities. Duties can change.

If If you’re detail-savvy, people-centered, and motivated by work that changes lives, this role gives you the chance to be that steady, supportive presence every young adult deserves. Let’s do some good together..

What We Provide...

We believe in your potential, we meet you where you are, and we invest in your future. Beyond the meaningful work, YSS provides the following benefits:

• Supportive leadership team and mission-driven culture.
• Flexibility and autonomy in a collaborative environment.
• Competitive salary
• Generous Paid Time off and Leave
  • Four weeks of paid time off (PTO)
  • Volunteer time off
  • Paid holiday leave
  • Birthday holiday
• Wellness Program Opportunities
  • Employee Assistance Program for all employees
  • Flu shots
  • Mental health support
• YSS is a Public Service Loan Forgiveness qualified employer.

To create a world where youth are valued and empowered, we ask staff to embrace YSS core values - Commitment, Collaboration, Compassion, Innovation, Integrity, and a ’Can Do’ Spirit . We also ask for the following:

MUST HAVES - Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in human services or a related field.
• Two (2) or more years of directly related experience.
• Travel, including transporting clients, is required for this position. For YSS insurance purposes, you must:
  • be 21 years of age,
  • have a valid, state-issued, driver’s license,
  • have a clean driving record, and
  • have adequate insurance coverage per YSS policy.

SHOULD HAVES - Preferred Qualifications

• A collaborative mindset and the ability to work effectively with others regardless of backgrounds, identities, and goals.
• Able to effectively communicate with customers, clients, and the public as well as colleagues and other staff members.
• Basic computer skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, Google Docs, and basic database use.

The IDEAL Candidate Will:

• Be rooted in purpose and driven by equity, inclusion, and positive social impact.
• Bring humility, respect, and cultural awareness to every interaction.
• Speak a second language (especially one spoken in our communities).

Who You Are...

You’re the kind of person who shows up—steady, dependable, and genuinely invested in helping young adults build a future they can be proud of. You balance heart and backbone: compassionate enough to meet youth where they are, and confident enough to guide them toward independence with clarity and care. You’re organized without being rigid, calm in the chaos, and comfortable juggling paperwork, problem-solving, and real human connection all in the same afternoon. You communicate well, listen even better, and you know how to empower people rather than do everything for them. Most of all, you believe that every young adult deserves support, dignity, and someone who won’t give up on them—and you’re ready to be that person.

We celebrate the strength in your story.

Have you navigated recovery from addiction, mental health challenges, trauma, or housing instability? Your lived experience offers a unique, compassionate perspective that can inspire real change . By sharing your story and serving as a role model or mentor, you can make a meaningful impact in the lives of youth and families.

Your journey matters . If you’re ready to use it to uplift and empower others , we warmly encourage you to apply.

Who We Are...

We’re YSS - one of Iowa’s oldest & largest nonprofits dedicated to putting kids first. Our mission? To spark hope, create opportunities, and help young people thrive. With life-changing programs, an enthusiastic leadership team, and our brand-new 50-acre recovery campus, we’re growing fast and thinking big . Check us out at yss.org!

At YSS , we celebrate the unique backgrounds, identities, and experiences that each team member brings. As an Equal Opportunity Employer , we’re dedicated to creating a respectful, inclusive, and empowering environment where everyone can grow and succeed. And we’re always working to do better together.

YSS is a nicotine-free workplace.

Heads Up! Don’t Miss Our Messages! - We communicate with applicants via email - straight from our Paycom system. So be sure to keep an eye on your inbox (and your spam/junk folder too). Got questions? Email yss@yss.org - we’re happy to help!

The YSS Hiring Process

• Apply - Fill out the online app at yss.org/ysscareers.
• Assessment - We’ll check out your skills and experience.
• Interview - Phone, video, or in-person - we’ll chat and get to know you.
• References - Send us three+ people who can sing your praises.
• Screening - Background and driving checks (plus license verification if needed).
• Offer - If it’s a match, you’ll get a formal offer through Paycom.

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