About the Role
Overview The 4Kids4Families Youth Achievement Specialist is responsible for conducting assessments, working towards permanency plans, and coordinating efforts to ensure the well-being and stability of older youth (ages 14-21) in foster care. They will also collaborate with families, foster parents, and a variety of stakeholders to achieve the goal of permanency and successful transitional living for each child. Benefits Include Medical, dental, vision, and supplemental insurance options, including HSA match for qualifying contributions. Parental Paid Leave Retirement savings plan with company match. Paid time off and holiday pay. Mileage reimbursement. Tuition reimbursement available. Company sponsored learning and development Responsibilities Other duties may be assigned as necessary. Meet the individual needs of youth and young adults. Work with youth and young adults to develop and finalize plans for the transition into adulthood in general conversation, support and modeling positive adult behaviors/reactions. Assist/facilitate circle of support meetings for 14+ year old youth/young adults providing and atmosphere to make and discuss plans for immediate attention and longer-term goals. Work to facilitate/provide PAL classes and promote successful completion of life skills training. Have the ability to work in an emotion-filled environment which may require conducting home visits in isolated or high crime areas and may involve exposure to substandard and unsanitary living conditions. Advocate for the best interests of children, youth/young adults, collaborating with legal and court systems, ensuring timely court appearances, and providing necessary documentation for court hearings. Collaborate with various stakeholders, including social workers, therapists, educators, and healthcare professionals, to create a comprehensive support network for each child. Provide crisis intervention and support services as needed for children and families to maintain placement stability. Work with youth to develop their family and support network. Help youth prepare for a successful adulthood through discussing housing, education, benefits, and realistic outcomes. Ability to travel and attend child and family visits as well as other work-related appointments and meetings after 5PM. Ability to be on call on a rotating basis and work irregular hours when necessary. Demonstrate cultural competency and sensitivity in working with children and families from diverse backgrounds. Perform all duties within contract, state and federal regulations, company policy, and regulatory agency standards. May be required to drive vehicles, be insurable with our auto insurance provider, and complete company vehicle training. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, or a related field preferred. 2-3 years of work-related experience in lieu of degree. Previous experience in child welfare, foster care, or adoption services is a plus. Knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and best practices in child welfare. State licensure or certification may be required.