Diversion Specialist

Residential Youth Services & Empowerment (RYSE), a community-based organization, seeks a Diversion Specialist. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, quality assurance, data collection, in-reach to incarcerated/institutionalized youth (i.e., OCCC, WCCC, Hawaii State Hospital), court advocacy, building and maintaining relationships with like-minded organizations; law enforcement; Department of Health (ADAD, AMHD, etc.); Hawaii State Judiciary, and drug treatment facilities.

The Diversion Specialist will further the agency’s mission of providing a continuum of support that empowers Hawaii’s street youth to move beyond houselessness.  RYSE envisions a community where there is no youth houselessness. 

Job Responsibilities:

• In-reach to incarcerated/institutionalized youth (i.e. OCCC, WCCC, Hawaii State Hospital)
• Court Advocacy
• Building and maintaining relationships with like-minded organizations, law enforcement, DoH, HSJ, and drug treatment facilities
• Linkage to appropriate supportive services
• Coordination of probation requirements and conditions of supervised release
• Attend all meetings and trainings, as scheduled
• Input data into various databases to track homelessness status and standard case management functions
• Coordination with substance abuse and mental health treatment centers
• Case management for all clients

Required Qualifications:

• Knowledge of the criminal justice system in Hawaii and various social service organizations. Access to an insured, registered vehicle, and able to successfully complete a driving record abstract and criminal background check.

Educational Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in the field of psychology, social work, criminal justice, or closely related field with a minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience with the identified population.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience providing diversion, reentry, or transition services to youth involved in the juvenile or criminal justice systems.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed care, positive youth development, restorative justice practices, and harm reduction approaches.
• Experience working with youth experiencing homelessness, substance use disorders, serious mental illness, or family conflict.
• Familiarity with the Hawaii juvenile justice system, probation processes, and specialty courts.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

This position involves engaging with diverse communities, participating in site visits, and attending policy discussions. Reasonable accommodation will be made to ensure accessibility.

While primarily office-based, occasional fieldwork, community meetings, and housing site evaluations may be required. Standard office responsibilities include document preparation, computer use, and phone communication.

Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion

RYSE is committed to equity, inclusion, and social impact. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including members of the LGBTQ+ community and those with lived experiences in housing insecurity.