Child Abuse Prevention Program Specialist

Who We Are:

For nearly 150 years, JFS has offered compassionate support and practical solutions to help people in greater St. Louis navigate life’s challenges. Our professional staff assist the elderly, protect children at risk, provide food and services to those in need, support families, and enhance community connections. We serve people in need, inclusive of all ages, races, religions, ethnicities, genders and sexual orientations. JFS is a dynamic organization, with committed volunteers and talented staff dedicated to an inspiring mission.

The Position:

The Program Specialist (CAPP) will provide sexual abuse prevention presentations to elementary and secondary school students. The CAPP curriculum teaches children, teachers and parent about body safety, the warning signs of abuse, and safe internet use. Presentations are provided throughout Saint Louis City and County, in a variety of settings including early childhood centers, elementary schools and community organizations. Program specialists travel to different locations each day for presentations.

CAPP is based on an empowerment model, teaching children to have age-appropriate sexual self-efficacy. For elementary school children this translates into knowing how and when to set boundaries and believing that they have the power to set those limits. The Child Abuse Prevention Program has three main goals: to teach children to recognize sexual abuse; to give them the skills to avoid abuse; and to encourage them to report abuse that they have experienced in the past or may experience in the future. The presentation incorporates observational and participatory learning, modeling, and opportunities to practice learned skills. Videos, songs, child friendly props and activities are incorporated into the program. 

Essential Functions:

• Delivers program presentations to students, parents, and teachers in school and community-based settings, in person and virtually.
• Completes assigned program documentation accurately and on-time. Collects pre/post survey data.
• Receives disclosures of child abuse or neglect and reports disclosures as necessary.
• Assists with the development and updating of program materials.
• Assists with program-related correspondence.
• Performs other duties as required or assigned.
• Complies with all company policies and standards.

Qualifications:

To be successful in this position, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skills and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with varying abilities to perform the essential functions.

Education: Bachelor’s degree desired

Work Experience: One year of experience in program area.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to analyze/solve problems and communicate recommendations.
• Advanced presentation skills.
• Ability to communicate information calmly in high-stress situations, demonstrating sensitivity to the population being served (elderly, teachers, young students, and adults/families dealing with severe mental illness).
• Ability to use general office equipment, computers, and related software programs.
• Demonstrates teamwork and support of the JFS mission and values.

Work Environment:

Work is typically performed in a school setting.

Physical Demands:

This position requires standing for more than an hour at a time and for consecutive hours throughout the day. At times, staff must transport heavy portfolios and paperwork weighing as much as 50 pounds. The potential exists for highly sensitive or emotionally charged encounters with children.

Travel:

Programs are presented throughout the St. Louis County area, this position will require travel to schools, camps, other agencies/organizations. Must have access to private, reliable transportation. JFS does offer mileage reimbursement.

Other: This description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this position. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

JFS provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Please visit our website at www.jfsstl.org. St the top of the page, click on About Us, then Careers, then View Open Positions. This position is also referred to as a Program Specialist (CAPP).