The GSV in this position works closely with adolescents in a juvenile justice residential detention facility. The volunteer facilitates recreational activities, groups, and programming for youth, escorts youth to and from school, medical appointments, court appearances, or other outings. The GSV also counsels youth, providing them with personal support and assisting in conflict mediation and resolution. The GSV will work alongside the Recreation Specialist, Education and Vocational Specialist, Behavior Management Specialist, and Health Services Staff.

As part of the Close to Home initiative, Good Shepherd Services operates two, Non-Secure Placement residences under contract from Administration for Children’s Services. Youth who have been adjudicated delinquent by the Family Court with a disposition of placement with ACS for non-secure placement are referred to the programs by ACS. We have a male and a female house, each with a capacity for 12 youth. Ages are typically 14 – 16, with occasional younger and older youth. Youth typically stay for about seven months. In the residences, we aim for a therapeutic milieu at all times, using the Sanctuary model of trauma-informed practice and the Missouri approach. Residences are staffed 24 hours a day with a combination of Youth Development Counselors (our front line child care staff) and supervisors, social workers, case planners, health service staff and others. We work highly collaboratively in an interdisciplinary manner. We also engage families as part of our therapeutic work, aiming towards a safe and pro-social return, when possible to the family after the seven months in placement.