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.

Director of LifeWise Academy

Salary Range:  $60,000+

Position Description:

LifeWise StL is seeking a dynamic and experienced leader to serve as the Director of LifeWise Academy. This full-time position is ideal for a Master’s level social worker or an individual with an equivalent degree in Education, Counseling, or related fields. The Director will lead a dedicated team to deliver academic support, enrichment activities, life skills training, job skill development, and social support to high school students, helping them overcome barriers to success.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Leadership and Strategic Oversight: Lead a team of six, driving the vision and strategic goals of LifeWise Academy in close collaboration with the President/CEO.
  • Specialized Program Leadership:
    • Children’s Defense Fund Freedom Schools: Act as the Program Director, overseeing the implementation of this empowering educational program that provides summer and after-school enrichment that helps students succeed in school and in life.
    • Wyman Teen Outreach Program (TOP): Serve as the Coordinator and Trainer, guiding this nationally recognized program focused on positive youth development, community service, and healthy behaviors.
  • Community Engagement and Collaboration: Foster a collaborative environment by working closely with staff, volunteers, and community partners. Enhance our holistic, participant-focused services through strategic community partnerships and initiatives.
  • Financial and Administrative Management: Manage department budgets, oversee credit card expenditures, and coordinate with the Director of Finance and Accounting for budget compliance. Approve and submit all necessary financial documents.
  • Program Development and Evaluation: Coordinate professional development for staff, manage data entry and tracking as an ETO administrator, and stay updated on evidence-based practices in youth development.
  • Grant Management: Support grant writing efforts, manage grant reporting for this program, and oversee federal programs such as the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) and the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP).

Required Experience and Skills:

  • Educational Qualification: Master’s Degree in Counseling, Social Work, Education, Public Administration, or Non-Profit Management. Professional licensure is a plus.
  • Professional Experience: Minimum of five years in a supervisory role within the youth development field. Extensive experience in program development, facilitation, and administrative management.
  • Operational Competence: Strong capability in managing program budgets, preferably with experience overseeing budgets exceeding $600,000.
  • Soft Skills: Flexibility, mental agility, strong initiative, creativity, and robust computer proficiency.
  • Communication: Exceptional written and oral communication skills.
  • Cultural Competence: Proven track record of effectively working with diverse populations.

Preferred Experience:

  • Advanced experience in proposal writing and securing funds through grants.
  • Significant experience in grant reporting.
  • Experience managing federal and/or state-funded programs.

How to Apply:
Please send your resume and a cover letter to jobs@lifewisestl.org, with “Director of LifeWise Academy” 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.

Financial Social Worker

Salary Range:  $45,000 – $48,000

Position Description:

LifeWise StL is seeking a dedicated full-time Financial Social Worker (FSW) to establish and nurture relationships with participants, aiding them in developing and achieving their economic wellness goals. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of each participant’s holistic needs, including addressing immediate basic needs and employing effective goal-setting techniques. This role involves crafting personalized plans to help participants overcome economic barriers and promoting a culture of asset building and financial wellness among low-income communities, including both native and foreign-born participants. LifeWise StL will also provide training and certification in Financial Social Work to equip the FSW for success in this role.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Client Engagement and Support: Conduct formal intake assessments, develop S.M.A.R.T. action plans, and provide ongoing one-on-one coaching to help participants set and achieve their financial goals.
  • Educational Programming: Co-facilitate and lead financial and wealth management education workshops, tailored to enhance participant understanding and skills in financial management.
  • Data Management and Reporting: Ensure accurate data entry and management to uphold the integrity of program outcomes. Assist in marketing and outreach efforts to recruit and retain program participants.
  • Professional Development: Engage in required trainings and professional development opportunities, which are fully supported and financed by LifeWise StL.
  • Community Collaboration: Maintain and build productive relationships with volunteers, community partners, and staff to support holistic, client-focused programming. Actively embrace the collaborative spirit of LifeWise StL by participating in staff meetings, strategic planning, and community engagements, working alongside all stakeholders to enhance our services.

Qualifications:

  • Educational Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or a related field required; Master’s degree preferred.
  • Experience: At least one year of experience in social services, with specific skills in one-on-one case management or counseling required. Experience in facilitating any type of group is necessary, with a preference for those who have led psychoeducational groups.
  • Knowledge and Skills:
    o Basic understanding of financial management tools and terminology.
    o Proficient in public speaking and able to facilitate discussions effectively in group settings.
    o Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
    o Knowledge of the St. Louis social service landscape including TANF, SNAP, WIC, etc.
  • Additional Skills: Experience with financial services and products is a plus. Bilingual abilities in English and Spanish are highly desirable.
  • Personal Qualities: Strong initiative, problem-solving skills, and the ability to adapt flexibly to change.

Working Conditions:

  • Ability to work a flexible schedule, including some non-traditional hours (evenings) as needed.
  • Participation in a dynamic, collaborative, and fast-paced environment.

How to Apply:
Please send your resume and a cover letter to jobs@lifewisestl.org, with “Financial Social Worker” 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.

Senior Programming Coordinator

Salary Range:  $42,000 – $48,000

Position Description:

LifeWise StL is seeking a dedicated Senior Programming Coordinator to join our dynamic team. This role is pivotal in enhancing the lives of older adults through the Senior Companion Program (SCP) and the Senior Resiliency Fund (SRF). The Coordinator will work closely with the Director of Senior Programming, the Administrative Assistant, and the Financial Social Worker/Benefits Specialist to deliver impactful services to the community.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Develop and maintain relationships with active, low-income seniors and family caregivers to facilitate volunteer opportunities and respite services.
  • Conduct home visits for client intake, maintain updated client records, and ensure seamless communication with team members.
  • Lead outreach initiatives, including marketing, recruitment, and retention strategies to expand program participation.
  • Organize and participate in community events such as Health Fairs and public speaking engagements to promote Senior Programming.
  • Monitor and evaluate volunteer-client interactions and overall program effectiveness, adjusting strategies as needed to meet objectives.
  • Manage referrals, waitlists, and data reporting to maintain high standards of program integrity and outcomes.
  • Collaborate with the Director to address broader issues affecting participant well-being and to strategize on program enhancements.
  • Embrace the collaborative spirit of LifeWise StL, working alongside staff, volunteers, and community partners to enhance our holistic, client-focused services.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or related field required; Master’s degree preferred.
  • Minimum one year of experience in social services, with a focus on working directly with older adults.
  • Proven ability to facilitate groups and engage individuals in diverse settings.
  • Strong organizational skills, excellent time management, and attention to detail.
  • Exceptional communication abilities, including public speaking and interpersonal skills.
  • Flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic, evolving project scope.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and travel locally (must have own vehicle and insurance).
  • Experience with underserved populations and a commitment to ethical service provision.
  • Willingness to work flexible and occasional non-traditional hours.

Additional Skills:

  • Familiarity with issues related to aging and caregiver support.
  • Compassionate demeanor with a patient approach to client interactions.

Opportunities for Professional Development:

  • Engage in ongoing training, strategic planning sessions, and professional networking to enhance personal and organizational capabilities.

We invite passionate individuals who are committed to making a difference in the lives of older adults to apply for this rewarding opportunity.

How to Apply:
Please send your resume and a cover letter to jobs@lifewisestl.org, with “Senior Programming Coordinator” 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

Primary Duties and 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.