Employment Opportunities at LifeWise StL

At LifeWise StL, we value diversity in our workplace and the communities we serve. As an equal opportunity employer, we aim to create a culture that appreciates differences. We are dedicated to ensuring all employees feel acknowledged and respected.

CDF Freedom Schools® Servant Leader Intern (Summer/Temporary)

Salary Range:  $16.50 per hour

About the CDF Freedom Schools® Program:
The CDF Freedom Schools® program is a transformative educational and cultural enrichment initiative. For six weeks during the summer, we offer a vibrant learning experience for children aged 5 to 18, focusing on literacy, conflict resolution, and social engagement through an activity-rich curriculum. Our goal is to provide meaningful summer learning opportunities, foster parental and community engagement, and cultivate a deep sense of social, cultural, and historical understanding among our participants.

Position Description:

LifeWise StL invites dynamic and passionate individuals to join us as Servant Leader Interns. This role is at the heart of our summer reading enrichment initiative, aimed at kindling a love for reading and learning in children from kindergarten through tenth grade. As a Servant Leader Intern, you will be pivotal in crafting an environment that nurtures growth, understanding, and community engagement.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Curriculum Delivery: Implement the Integrated Reading Curriculum with fidelity and enthusiasm, engaging a class of up to ten students over a 6-week summer period.
  • Classroom Management: Efficiently set up and dismantle classroom spaces daily, ensuring all materials are prepared and organized for effective learning.
  • Collaborative Engagement: Work in unison with our dedicated staff and volunteers to foster a nurturing and structured setting for our young learners.
  • Leadership: Energize each day with Harambee!, lead enriching afternoon activities, special events, and safely guide students on field trips.
  • Professional Development: Commit to comprehensive training sessions to enhance your skills and understanding of our program’s core values and methodologies.

Schedule Commitment:

Orientation & Training:

  • Staff Orientation: May 21, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
  • National Training in Knoxville, Tennessee: May 28 – June 2
  • Local Training: June 4 – June 7, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM daily

Program Preparation & Engagement:

  • Site Preparation: June 10 – June 14, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Parent Orientation: June 14, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM.

Freedom School Programming:

  • June 17 – July 26
  • Juneteenth Celebration: June 19
  • Break Days: July 4 – 5
  • Freedom School Finale: July 26

Required Experience and Qualifications:

  • Completion of at least one year of college with satisfactory academic standing.
  • Skilled in crafting and executing lesson plans with a spark of creativity.
  • Vibrant, energetic, and ready to bring innovative ideas to life.
  • A responsible individual with a knack for inspiring and motivating young minds.
  • Possesses strong interpersonal abilities and communication skills.
  • Demonstrates a genuine respect for diversity in all its forms and a willingness to embrace it wholeheartedly.
  • Enjoys collaboration and thrives in team-oriented environments.

How to Apply:

Please send your resume and a cover letter to jobs@lifewisestl.org, with “Servant Leader Intern” in the subject line.

LifeWise StL is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

LifeWise Academy Teen Advisor

Salary Range:  $40,000 – $46,000

Position Description:

LifeWise StL is committed to empowering the youth of St. Louis through comprehensive support services. Our LifeWise Academy is at the forefront of this mission, providing a nurturing environment where high school students can thrive academically and personally. We are dedicated to fostering individual growth, community involvement, and future readiness among our scholars.

As a Teen Advisor at LifeWise Academy, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping the futures of high school students. You’ll offer dedicated support to a specific grade level while engaging with students across all grades. Your work will directly contribute to their academic success, personal development, and post-high school readiness.

Position Schedule:

  • School Year: Monday to Thursday, 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Student Engagement 2:30 PM – 7:00 PM). Administrative tasks and planning hours are flexible and coordinated with the director.
  • Summer: Adjusted hours to align with summer programming schedules (CDF Freedom Schools: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM).

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Engage in active recruitment and enrollment of youth into LifeWise Academy.
  • Conduct monthly individual meetings with students to discuss academic progress, personal goals, and career aspirations, guiding them towards success.
  • Maintain open lines of communication with parents, school counselors, and teachers to support each student’s holistic development.
  • Lead and facilitate life skills classes, employing the Teen Outreach Program curriculum.
  • Design and implement enriching after-school and summer activities.
  • Manage accurate and up-to-date student records using our agency database (Efforts to Outcomes/ETO).
  • Act as a site coordinator for the Children’s Defense Fund (CDF) Freedom Schools during summer.
  • Provide safe transportation for students as needed using the agency’s 15-passenger van.
  • Explore and secure additional resources to enhance the support provided to our scholars.
  • Embrace the collaborative spirit of LifeWise StL, working alongside staff, volunteers, and community partners to enhance our holistic, participant-focused services.

Required Experience and Skills:

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
  • Demonstrated flexibility and adaptability in dynamic environments.
  • Ability to think on your feet, make sound decisions, and adapt strategies on the go.
  • Self-motivated with a proactive approach to tasks and challenges.
  • Creative thinker with a knack for innovative problem-solving.
  • Proficiency in computer use and strong command of digital tools.
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and oral.
  • Experience working with diverse populations.
  • Ability to obtain a Class E driver’s license endorsement within 90 days of hire.
  • Successful completion of criminal background checks.

Preferred Experience and Skills:

  • Deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities facing today’s youth.
  • Experience in mentoring or advising high school students.
  • Proven track record of facilitating life skills education.

How to Apply:

Please send your resume and a cover letter to jobs@lifewisestl.org, with “Teen Advisor” in the subject line.

LifeWise StL is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Receptionist & Family Center Assistant Teacher

Salary Range:  $15-$16 per hour

Position Description:

LifeWise StL is seeking a dynamic and engaging individual to serve primarily as a Receptionist while also supporting our Family Center as an Assistant Teacher. This dual-role position requires a candidate who is adept at managing front desk responsibilities, providing a warm and efficient welcome to community members, and nurturing young minds in an educational setting. The ideal candidate will bring a blend of administrative proficiency, educational support skills, and a passion for our mission to empower families and individuals.

Position Schedule:

  • Reception hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday, with occasional requirements extending from 6:30 AM to 7:00 PM
  • Family Center hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, 8:30 am – 1:15 pm; Monday through Thursday, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Key Responsibilities:

Receptionist:

  • Front Desk Management: Warmly greet participants, visitors, and staff, manage secure access, and maintain a professional and organized reception area.
  • Communication: Efficiently answer and direct calls, take messages, and ensure clear communication channels within the organization.
  • Administrative Support: Maintain participant sign-in logs and manage donation receipts.
  • Supply Management: Monitor office supply levels and inform the Finance Associate when replenishments are needed.

Family Center Assistant Teacher:

  • Child Care: Support a nurturing, safe, and educational environment for children.
  • Family Center Operations: Assist with daily classroom routines, manage opening/closing procedures, and ensure cleanliness and safety standards are met.
  • Parent Communication: Engage with parents to share policies and updates on their children’s progress and behavior.
  • Department Support: Provide assistance to Supportive Services as needed.

General Duties:

  • Embrace the collaborative spirit of LifeWise StL, working alongside staff, volunteers, and community partners to enhance our holistic, participant-focused services.
  • Adhere to LifeWise StL’s policies as outlined in the Personnel Policy and Child Care Handbook.

Required Experience and Skills:

  • At least one year of general office experience.
  • At least one year of childcare experience.
  • High school diploma or equivalent required; CDA, AA, or related educational background preferred.
  • Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish is highly desirable.
  • Strong interpersonal skills to maintain positive relationships with children, adults, and team members.
  • Proficiency in computer skills, including G Suite, Word, and Excel.
  • Ability to multi-task, work independently, and adapt to changing priorities.
  • Must complete a Family Care Safety Registry criminal background check and adhere to business casual attire standards.

How to Apply:
Interested candidates should send a resume and cover letter to jobs@lifewisestl.org with “Receptionist” in the subject line.

LifeWise StL is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Mental Health Therapist – Bilingual

Salary Range:  Salary starts at $48,000 for LMSW and $52,000 for LCSW, varying by experience.

Position Description:

At LifeWise StL, we are committed to fostering a community where individuals and families thrive. We are currently seeking a dedicated Bilingual Mental Health Therapist to join our dynamic team. This role is pivotal in providing trauma-informed, culturally responsive care to both youth and adults within our community service setting.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Provide individual and group therapy, psychoeducation, and care coordination aligned with participants’ treatment plans.
  • Manage a weekly caseload of 16 sessions, serving both youth and adults.
  • Commit to at least three evening shifts per week, concluding by 7 PM.
  • Facilitate in-person group sessions to bolster LifeWise StL’s Mental Health initiatives.
  • Collaborate in the development and execution of mental health programs, working closely with a multidisciplinary team of therapists and social workers.
  • Participate actively in case consultations and team meetings to ensure cohesive care.
  • Adhere to and enforce all organizational policies and best practices.
  • Align mental health services with LifeWise StL’s mission and the expectations of our funders.
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date records, and compile reports as needed.
  • Report to the Director of Emotional and Physical Wellness and receive individual clinical supervision from the Clinical Director.
  • Embrace the collaborative spirit of LifeWise StL, working alongside staff, volunteers, and community partners to enhance our holistic, client-focused services.

Required Experience and Skills:

  • Hold a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) certification in Missouri. LMSW candidates eligible for in-house supervision may also apply.
  • Possess at least one year of experience in social services, with a strong emphasis on individual case management or counseling.
  • Have a minimum of one year of hands-on experience engaging directly with participants.
  • Demonstrate a strong commitment to and enthusiasm for LifeWise StL’s mission.
  • Exhibit flexibility and adaptability in your role to meet the evolving needs of programs and participants.
  • Bring experience in working with underserved and diverse communities.
  • Be willing and able to accommodate a flexible and occasionally unconventional schedule.
  • Fluency in both English and Spanish is essential.

Compensation Details:
Our salary structure is designed to reflect the value and expertise of our team members, with the starting salaries tailored to both licensure level and professional experience. For individuals holding an LMSW, the starting salary is set at $48,000, while those with an LCSW designation begin at $52,000.

How to Apply:
Please send your resume and a cover letter to jobs@lifewisestl.org, with “Mental Health Therapist” in the subject line.

LifeWise StL is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Assistant Teacher – Early Childhood Center (Full-time or Part-time)

Salary Range:  $15-$17 per hour

Position Description:

LifeWise StL is seeking a dedicated Assistant Teacher to join our Early Childhood Center team. This role provides a unique opportunity to shape the lives of children aged 6 weeks to 5 years by providing nurturing care and contributing to our teaching team. The ideal candidate will bring a passion for early childhood education, a positive and nurturing attitude, and a commitment to professional growth. Part-time and full-time positions are available.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

Child Interaction and Care:

  • Interact with children in a warm, positive and nurturing manner.
  • Assist Lead Teachers in lesson planning, maintaining daily observations and daily communication with parents.

Classroom Maintenance:

  • Follow opening and closing procedures, sharing the responsibilities for cleanliness and neatness of the classroom.
  • Carry out and assist with daily classroom procedures such as, medication distribution, diet plans, hand washing, bathroom/diapering, cleaning/sanitizing, etc.

Professional Development:

  • Maintain a professional attitude at all times.
  • Demonstrate commitment to professional growth by attending and actively participating in all service trainings (min. of 12 hours per year required), conferences and staff meetings.

LifeWise STL staff partner with individual and group volunteers, who provide over 25,000 service hours to the organization annually. As such, the successful employee will work collaboratively with organizational leadership, co-workers, volunteers and colleagues from within and outside the organization to deliver and support holistic, client-focused programming.

Required Experience and Skills:

  •  CDA, AA, BA or advanced degree in any field or enrolled in a CDA, AA or BA program to be completed within 2 years.
  • At least 3 credit hours in early childhood education or a related field.
  • Experience in working with children in a group setting, preferably in an early childhood education setting.
  • Ability to maintain a positive and professional relationship with children and adults.

How to Apply:

Please send your resume and cover letter to jobs@lifewisestl.org, with “Early Childhood Center Assistant Teacher” in the subject line.

LifeWise StL is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Youth Program Van Driver/Co-Pilot

Salary Range:  $15-$17 per hour

Position Description:

Join our team as a Van Driver/Co-Pilot, where you’ll play a crucial role in our school-age youth programs. This position extends beyond the responsibilities of driving; it’s about becoming a positive influence in the lives of the children we serve. You’ll ensure their safety during transport and significantly enhance their program experience through your interactions and care.

Position Overview:

  • Type: Part-Time
  • Schedule: 25 hours/week during after-school and evening hours (academic year), with split shifts similar to a bus driver during summer months.

Essential Duties:

  • Conduct daily inspections of the vehicle to ensure safety and operational readiness.
  • Safely transport young scholars to and from LifeWise StL, their schools, homes, and summer program sites.
  • Uphold all traffic laws and maintain a record of safe driving.
  • Engage with our youth, providing support and supervision in collaboration with the After School Staff.
  • Actively participate in team meetings and professional development opportunities.
  • Embrace the collaborative spirit of LifeWise StL, working alongside staff, volunteers, and community partners to enhance our holistic, client-focused services.

Requirements:

  • A passion for working with school-age youth and a commitment to positive youth development.
  • Openness to feedback and a consistent approach to your work.
  • A Missouri Class E Driver’s License for 12-15 passenger vans is preferred but not mandatory.

Preferred Experience:

  • At least one year of experience in a similar driving role.
  • Previous experience or a strong desire to work with school-age children.
  • Bilingual abilities (English/Spanish) are highly valued and can greatly enhance our connection with diverse communities.

How to Apply:

Please send your resume and a cover letter to jobs@lifewisestl.org, with “Van Driver” in the subject line.

LifeWise StL is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.