Mentor, Arches Program

THE ORGANIZATION

The Center for Justice Innovation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing community safety and racial justice. Since 1996, we’ve worked alongside communities, courts, and those most directly affected by the justice system to build stronger, healthier, and more equitable neighborhoods. With a team of over 900 staff and an annual budget of $130 million, the Center carries out its mission through three core strategies:

1. Operating Programs that pilot new ideas and address local challenges;
2. Conducting original research to evaluate what works—and what doesn’t; and
3. Providing expert assistance and policy guidance to reformers across the country and beyond.

Backed by decades of on-the-ground experience and nationally recognized expertise, we bring innovative, practical, and lasting solutions to justice systems nationwide.
Learn more about our work at www.innovatingjustice.org.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Queens Community Justice Center- The Rockaways is seeking a Mentor for its Arches Program. Reporting to the Trauma Informed Coordinator, the mentors will be responsible for facilitating group mentorship and interactive journaling sessions for participants in the Department of Probation (DOP) funded Arches program. Arches is a neighborhood-based transformative mentoring services program for young adults on probation and at risk between the ages of 16 and 24 who reside in or adjacent to Far Rockaway, Queens.

• Facilitate Interactive Journaling sessions focused on skill development and goal setting;
• Provide one-on-one mentoring support to participants;
• Provide program participants with additional support in achieving Individual Achievement Plan goals as set by DOP probation officers;
• Work with the Program Coordinator in organizing and facilitating a mentor support group;
• Ensure thorough and accurate file-keeping and reporting on progress and compliance of participants;
• Input data to ensure proper tracking of clients and measure program success;
• Participate in regular staff and team meetings to coordinate program needs and objectives;
• Provide enrollment and administrative coverage when necessary;
• Attend evening and weekend community events when necessary;
• Assist in special events and collaborate on larger QCJC-TR projects as necessary;
• Perform other duties as assigned by Trauma Informed Coordinator; and
• Additional tasks as necessary. 

Qualifications: 

• High school diploma (or higher) with at least 2 years of experience in youth development work and/or mentoring with court-involved populations;
• Knowledge of youth mentorship, violence prevention, and community organizing strategies;
• Excellent written communication and administrative skills
• Deep understanding of and connection to Far Rockaway communities;
• Skilled communicator able to work in a multi-disciplinary setting and maintain strong relationships with multiple agencies and organizations both onsite and in the community;
• Familiarity with the needs of youth impacted by community violence, street involvement, and criminal legal systems;
• Professional or personal experience with the criminal legal system preferred;
• Ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds in a culturally responsive manner;
• Experience providing group and individual mentoring/programming with youth;
• A self-starter who thrives in a diverse workplace and fast-paced environment;
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; and
• Strong commitment to social justice and anti-oppressive practice.

Position Type: Part-time role working 10 hours per week on Mondays and Thursdays from 1:00pm - 6:00pm.

Position Location: Far Rockaway Queens.

Compensation: The compensation range for this position is $28.57 - $29.67 per hour based on a 35-hour work week and is commensurate with experience. 

Benefits: The Center for Justice Innovation offers an excellent benefits package including comprehensive healthcare with a national network, free basic dental coverage, vision insurance, short-term and long-term disability, life insurance, and flexible spending accounts including commuter FSA. We prioritize mental health care for our staff and offer services like Talkspace and Ginger through our healthcare plans. We offer a 403(b) retirement plan with a two-to-one employer contribution up to 5%.

The Center for Justice Innovation is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, national origin, age, military service eligibility, veteran status, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, or any other category protected by law. We strongly encourage and welcome applications from women, people of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and individuals with prior contact with the criminal justice system. Our goal is to create a supportive and respectful environment where everyone, regardless of background or identity, feels valued and included.

At this time, the Center is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of application and throughout the duration of employment.

Candidates are expected to provide accurate and truthful information throughout the hiring process. Any misrepresentation, falsification, or omission of material facts may result in disqualification from consideration, withdrawal of an offer, or termination of employment, regardless of when discovered.

In compliance with federal law, all hires must verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete the required employment verification form upon hire. Please refer to the job posting for relevant contact information. If contact details are not provided, we kindly ask that you refrain from inquiries via phone or email, as only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.