Prevention Specialist

Job description:

Job Title: Prevention Specialist

Department: Prevention

Reports To: Community Education & Prevention Manager

Employment Status: Full-Time

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (Hourly)

Why Work Here?

At Townhall II, the work you do matters. As a Prevention Specialist, you play a key role in educating and empowering youth, families, schools, and communities to prevent substance misuse, child abuse and neglect, and other risk behaviors while promoting healthy, informed decision-making.

We offer more than just a job—we offer a meaningful career where you can grow both personally and professionally.

When you join our team, you will:

· Make a Real Impact – Educate and empower youth, families, and communities through evidence-based prevention programs.

· Develop Lifelong Skills – Build expertise in prevention education, public speaking, behavioral health, and community engagement.

· Be Part of Something Bigger – Join a mission-driven organization dedicated to supporting the community.

· Grow Your Career – Receive ongoing training, supervision, and professional development opportunities.

· (Full-Time) Enjoy Competitive Benefits – Including medical, dental, vision, paid time off, and more.

Position Summary

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Responsibilities may change at any time based on business needs.

The Prevention Specialist plans, implements, and evaluates evidence-based prevention and education programs focused on substance misuse, child abuse and neglect prevention, and other health and wellness initiatives. This position collaborates with schools, community organizations, and internal teams to increase awareness, strengthen protective factors, reduce risk factors, and promote safe, healthy, and resilient communities.

The ideal candidate is an engaging educator, strong communicator, and proactive professional committed to prevention and community impact.

Key Responsibilities

Program Delivery & Education

· Plan, implement, and evaluate evidence-based prevention programs in schools and community settings.

· Deliver educational presentations and workshops related to substance use prevention, child abuse prevention, mental wellness, and other prevention initiatives.

· Facilitate one-time presentations, classroom lessons, trainings, and community education events.

· Train educators, caregivers, and community stakeholders to recognize, respond to, and prevent child abuse and other behavioral health concerns.

· Adapt programming to meet the needs of diverse audiences and age groups while maintaining fidelity to evidence-based curricula.

Community Outreach & Engagement

· Build and maintain strong relationships with schools and community partners.

· Increase community awareness through events, outreach efforts, and distribution of educational materials.

· Promote a culture of safety, prevention, and social responsibility within the community.

Participant Support & Referrals

· Provide support and appropriate referrals to program participants as needed.

· Respond to concerns with professionalism, empathy, and a trauma-informed approach.

Program Development & Evaluation

· Design and implement participant satisfaction surveys to evaluate program effectiveness.

· Meet program goals, targets, and grant objectives.

· Assist with grant writing and program funding efforts.

· Generate earned income through training programs (e.g., Child Abuse Recognition and Reporting Trainings).

Documentation & Compliance

· Complete program reports and agency reports (including quality improvement) within required deadlines.

· Maintain accurate and timely documentation of services and outcomes.

· Ensure compliance with agency policies and applicable regulations.

Culture & Professional Expectations

· Model Sanctuary Model principles, including nonviolence, emotional intelligence, and growth and change.

· Maintain professionalism, cultural competence, and ethical conduct.

· Participate in required trainings and professional development.

· Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

· Bachelor's degree in Health Education, Public Health, Psychology, Education, Human Services, or a related field required.

· Experience in prevention education, community outreach, public health, child abuse prevention, substance use prevention, or related human services preferred.

Required Skills & Abilities

· Strong public speaking and presentation skills.

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

· Ability to build relationships with diverse populations and stakeholders.

· Strong organizational and time management skills.

· Ability to work independently and manage a flexible schedule.

· Basic computer proficiency (Microsoft Office).

· Initiative, adaptability, and problem-solving skills.

Licensure/Certifications

· One of the following preferred or required based on program needs:

o Ohio Certified Prevention Specialist (OCPS) or eligible

o Ohio Certified Prevention Specialist I or II

o LSW, LISW, or related licensure

o Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES)

o Other OhioMHAS-approved credentials

Pre-Employment Requirements

· Successful completion of background check and drug screening.

· Valid driver’s license.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

· Work is performed in schools, community settings, and office environments.

· Schedule varies based on program needs; may include evenings and weekends.

· Regular travel within the community required.

· Must be able to present to groups and facilitate trainings.

· May require light lifting and transport of materials.

Townhall II is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Employment with Townhall II is at-will. This means that either the employee or the employer may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with applicable law.

Townhall II provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable laws. If you need assistance or an accommodation during the application process or in the performance of this role, please contact Human Resources.

Application Process

Submit Resume to Barbara Folan at Fax: (330) 678-7558, or by mail to: Attn: HR Department, Townhall II 155 N. Water St., Kent, OH 44240

*Application can be obtained at www.Townhall2.com