Job Description
Job Description
Youth Employment Navigator
Reports To: YMSM Coordinator
Status: Full-Time (37.5 hours/week), Exempt, Benefit-Eligible
About Us
In Our Own Voices, Inc. (IOOV) is a nonprofit organization based in Albany, NY, dedicated to advancing the health, safety, and economic empowerment of LGBTQ+ people of color. We provide culturally affirming programs and services that support individuals and communities in achieving stability, resilience, and long-term growth.
Position Overview
The Youth Employment Navigator plays a vital role in empowering young gay men/young men who have sex with men (YGM/YMSM) of color by supporting them in securing meaningful employment, pursuing educational opportunities, and connecting to vocational training.
Through intensive case management, outreach, and community partnerships, the Navigator helps participants build pathways to financial independence while addressing the broader social determinants of health (SDOH). This role is central to IOOV’s mission of uplifting LGBTQ+ communities of color and fostering economic justice.
Key Responsibilities
Employment Support & Case Management
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Work with participants to identify career goals, create action plans, and address barriers to employment.
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Connect clients to vocational training, workforce development, and educational resources.
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Provide referrals for benefits counseling, ensuring participants understand the impact of work on income and benefits.
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Deliver life skills education focused on financial literacy, independence, and job readiness.
Community Engagement & Partnerships
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Build strong relationships with local employers, training programs, and workforce agencies to expand employment opportunities.
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Collaborate closely with the YMSM Coordinator and IOOV program staff to align services and maximize impact.
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Conduct outreach to engage YGM/YMSM communities and raise awareness of employment resources.
Health & Wellness Integration
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Promote access to HIV/STI/HCV prevention, including testing, PrEP/PEP, and care referrals.
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Provide crisis intervention and supportive services with a trauma-informed, harm-reduction approach.
Program Administration & Compliance
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Maintain accurate and timely documentation in IOOV’s reporting systems.
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Track program outcomes and contribute to reporting and evaluation.
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Participate in staff meetings, professional development, and agency-wide initiatives.
Qualifications
Required
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Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, or related field (or equivalent lived/professional experience).
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Experience in community-based case management, workforce development, or employment services.
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Experience working with LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly YGM/YMSM and communities of color.
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Strong organizational, communication, and assessment skills.
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Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, Outlook, and email.
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Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed.
Preferred
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Certification in benefits advisement or experience with benefits counseling.
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Familiarity with local workforce development programs, training opportunities, and community resources.
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Experience with trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and harm reduction–based approaches.
Why Join IOOV?
At IOOV, you’ll be part of a passionate, mission-driven team working at the intersection of economic empowerment, health equity, and LGBTQ+ advocacy. As the Youth Employment Navigator, you’ll directly support young people of color in building independence, resilience, and brighter futures—while strengthening the broader community.
If you’re ready to make a difference, we’d love to hear from y
Company DescriptionIn Our Own Voices, Inc. (IOOV) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the needs of LGBTQ+ communities, with a focus on people of color. Our mission is to enhance the health, wellness, and overall quality of life for LGBTQ+ individuals through advocacy, support services, and community-building activities. We offer a wide range of programs, including health services, mental health support, youth services, and cultural events, all aimed at fostering a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment. At IOOV, we are committed to promoting social justice and empowering marginalized communities to thrive.
Company Description
In Our Own Voices, Inc. (IOOV) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the needs of LGBTQ+ communities, with a focus on people of color. Our mission is to enhance the health, wellness, and overall quality of life for LGBTQ+ individuals through advocacy, support services, and community-building activities. We offer a wide range of programs, including health services, mental health support, youth services, and cultural events, all aimed at fostering a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment. At IOOV, we are committed to promoting social justice and empowering marginalized communities to thrive.