Position Title: Prevention Specialist

Reports To: Supervisor of Prevention Services

Location: Naples, FL

Employment Type: Full Time

Salary: Non-Exempt.  $35,200-$45,000

Benefits:Include but not limited to-Medical, 401k, tuition reimbursement, etc

Position Summary:

The Prevention Specialist is responsible for planning, implementing, and evaluating prevention programs that aim to reduce the risk of harmful behaviors and promote healthy lifestyles. The role includes education, outreach, and the development of strategies to prevent substance abuse, mental health issues, violence, and other harmful behaviors in communities, schools, or organizations. The Prevention Specialist will collaborate with community stakeholders, provide training and workshops, and use data to assess the effectiveness of prevention efforts.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Program Development & Implementation
• Design, implement, and manage prevention programs and initiatives to address key health concerns (e.g., substance abuse, mental health, violence prevention).
• Tailor programs to specific populations, including youth, families, schools, or community groups.
• Ensure the program's alignment with local, state, and national prevention standards and best practices.
2. Education and Outreach
• Provide educational sessions and workshops for various groups (e.g., students, parents, teachers, community members) to promote prevention and raise awareness about relevant issues.
• Develop and distribute educational materials, including brochures, flyers, and online resources.
• Engage in public speaking at community events, schools, and other organizations to share prevention messages.
3. Community Engagement & Collaboration
• Foster partnerships with community leaders, schools, health agencies, law enforcement, and other organizations to enhance the reach and impact of prevention programs.
• Participate in local coalitions, task forces, and committees focused on health promotion and prevention.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, including families, teachers, and healthcare providers.
4. Data Collection & Evaluation
• Collect and analyze data related to the effectiveness of prevention efforts.
• Monitor program outcomes and modify strategies as necessary to improve effectiveness.
• Prepare reports on program activities, impact, and recommendations for future prevention efforts.
5. Training & Professional Development
• Conduct training sessions for staff, educators, or community members to build capacity in prevention strategies.
• Stay informed about emerging trends in public health, prevention science, and evidence-based practices.
6. Compliance & Record Keeping
• Ensure all prevention activities comply with relevant federal, state, and local regulations and policies.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records, including program data, evaluations, and other documentation.

Qualifications:

• Education:
• Bachelor's degree in Public Health, Social Work, Psychology, Sociology, or related field.
• Experience:
• At least 2 years of experience in prevention programming, education, or public health, particularly in substance use prevention, mental health, or violence prevention.
• Experience working with diverse populations, especially youth, families, and community organizations.
• Skills & Competencies:
• Strong communication skills (verbal and written), including public speaking and presentation.
• Knowledge of prevention science, evidence-based programs, and health promotion strategies.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse groups and in a team environment.
• Experience with program evaluation, data collection, and report writing.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.

Working Conditions:

• Physical Requirements: Ability to travel locally, attend community events, and facilitate workshops. The role may require occasional lifting of materials and supplies.
• Work Environment: Typically an office or community-based setting, with occasional fieldwork in schools or community locations.