Safe Harbor Tribal Coordinator

Description

The Safe Harbor Tribal Coordinator plays a critical role in bridging tribal services with community-based support systems for youth at risk of, or affected by, commercial sexual exploitation (CSE) and sex trafficking. This position will serve as an integral part of a multidisciplinary team, helping to implement Safe Harbor programming within North Homes Children and Family Services' residential programs in the Bemidji area. The Tribal Coordinator will be responsible for providing culturally competent, trauma-informed care to youth up to age 24, supporting both direct services and community outreach to enhance programming and support for vulnerable individuals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Staff Training and Development: Lead and facilitate training for staff on topics related to exploitation, trafficking, and Safe Harbor principles.
• Case Management: Assist in coordinating case management and wrap-around services, ensuring comprehensive support for youth participants.
• Collaboration with External Agencies: Build and maintain relationships with law enforcement, Tribal Nations and Tribal agencies, child welfare agencies, and other community organizations, including DHS/MDH and Safe Harbor grantees across Minnesota.
• Protocol Implementation: Assist in the development, implementation, and ongoing evaluation of Safe Harbor protocols, including safety and needs assessments for youth and their families/guardians.
• Advocacy and Support: Advocate for youth in the community, providing both one-on-one and group support in a safe, nurturing, and culturally affirming environment.
• Program Development: Develop and implement youth programming that incorporates youth development principles, harm reduction strategies, and trauma-informed care.
• Community Engagement: Participate in multidisciplinary teams and task forces, network with community partners, and ensure effective referrals for youth transitioning into programming.
• Crisis Intervention: Provide crisis intervention and de-escalation support for youth involved in Safe Harbor services.
• Communication: Ensure clear and consistent communication with Safe Harbor program staff, residential directors, and other team members to facilitate holistic support for youth.
• Cultural Competency: Ensure that all programming and interactions are culturally competent and reflective of the diverse backgrounds of the youth served.

Working Conditions:

• Work is primarily performed in a residential setting or office environment, with occasional off-site travel required.
• Exposure to potentially challenging or high-risk situations, including interacting with vulnerable youth in crisis.
• The role requires sensitivity to the needs of youth affected by trauma and the ability to maintain professional boundaries in challenging circumstances.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion:

At North Homes Children and Family Services, we are deeply committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment that reflects the communities we serve. We recognize that every individual brings unique perspectives and experiences, and we believe that embracing this diversity enriches our work and strengthens our ability to provide exceptional mental health services. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is integral to our mission and values.

We strive to create a welcoming and equitable space where all individuals—regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or socioeconomic background—feel respected and valued. We actively work to eliminate barriers and biases, ensuring that our services are accessible and responsive to the needs of all people. We are dedicated to ongoing education and training, continuously improving our practices to support and uplift underrepresented groups. By prioritizing diversity and inclusion, we aim to promote greater understanding, enhance our service delivery, and drive positive change within our organization and the communities we serve.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement:

North Homes Children and Family Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, or any other legally protected status. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants.

Requirements

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum age of 21 and a valid Minnesota driver’s license.
• Proven experience working with high-risk, vulnerable youth.
• Knowledge of issues related to commercial sexual exploitation (CSE), sex trafficking, and gender-based violence.
• Experience providing holistic, trauma-informed support to youth.
• Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including a commitment to cultural competence and non-judgmental attitudes toward race, lifestyle, or socioeconomic status.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to advocate for youth and engage community partners.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Outlook, Excel) and case management software.
• Clean driving record, reliable vehicle with current insurance, and ability to pass criminal background checks.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in youth development, harm reduction, and/or trauma-informed care.
• Familiarity with child welfare, court systems, and supportive housing programs.
• Experience developing and facilitating youth-centered activities and programs.
• Training or certification in commercial sexual exploitation or trafficking.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
• Occasional travel required within the region, including driving to external meetings or events.
• Ability to manage stressful situations, which may involve crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques.