Per Diem Assistant Chef: REGIONS-Staff Secure Residential Treatment Program for Male Youth

Community Partners in Action (CPA) is one of the oldest and most respected organizations dedicated to criminal justice reform in the United States, with a rich history spanning nearly 150 years. Founded with the mission to advocate for the dignity and rights of individuals interacting with the criminal justice system, CPA operates as a non-profit organization focused on creating positive, long-lasting changes for vulnerable populations across Connecticut. CPA's wide array of programs includes crucial initiatives such as reentry and housing support, youth programs, a nationally acclaimed Prison Arts Program, and holistic alternatives to incarceration. Serving nearly 7,000 individuals annually, CPA's impact is made possible through strong collaborations with individuals, government agencies, private funders, nonprofits, and businesses. The organization is deeply committed to its BEDI culture, which centers on belonging, equity, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring an inclusive and equitable workplace environment that advances criminal justice reform while confronting racial inequities and preserving human dignity. The REGIONS Staff Secure Residential Treatment Program for Male Youth, located in Hartford, CT, is a specialized residential treatment setting designed to provide care for up to eight male youth. This program offers a structured environment that is trauma-informed, culturally responsive, gender-specific, linguistically appropriate, strengths-based, and relationship-driven. The primary aim is to enhance the social, physical, and emotional well-being of the youth, helping them develop improved coping skills, positive self-image, and successful social relationships. The program focuses on therapeutic intervention to break the cycle of offending, thereby reducing risk factors and preventing youth from transitioning into the adult justice system. Youth served in the program present a lower risk to public safety and tend to be amenable to treatment. The approach is individualized and guided by principles designed to foster confidence, behavioral change, and the ability to reintegrate into their communities more effectively. Within this impactful program, the Per Diem Assistant Chef plays a critical role as part of the multidisciplinary team. This position is compensated at $23.66 per hour and offers a flexible schedule that may include weekends and holidays. The Assistant Chef supports the program's mission by assisting in the planning and preparation of approximately 200 healthy and home-like meals daily, ensuring strict adherence to dietary guidelines established by a licensed dietician and state food service regulations. This role demands thorough knowledge of food safety and sanitation protocols as well as the capability to train youth in vocational skills related to food service and safe food handling. The ideal candidate exemplifies strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills along with a commitment to fostering a culture of respect, empathy, and inclusion. Working in this dynamic environment requires adaptability, resourcefulness, and emotional intelligence, all while maintaining professional boundaries and serving as a positive role model to youth. The Per Diem Assistant Chef position is an essential contributor to the holistic treatment approach, helping youth gain valuable life skills in a nurturing and supportive setting.

• High school diploma or GED
• at least one year of experience with food ordering and meal preparation in a group setting
• clear understanding of the State of Connecticut's food service regulations
• certified Qualified Food Operator or able to qualify
• ability to instruct all staff in food preparation
• capacity to provide vocational training to program youth
• ability to interact with multi-cultural populations
• strong decision making, communication, interpersonal and organizational skills
• adaptability, flexibility, resourcefulness and emotional intelligence
• belief that people can change and individuals in need deserve quality services and an opportunity to succeed
• valid CT driver’s license and reliable transportation
• willingness to work a flexible schedule including weekends and holidays
• bilingual English/Spanish preferred