Aftercare Worker

MercyFirst • Brightwaters, NY

11d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Aftercare Worker for the QRTP program will be responsible for assessment, engagement, and case management services for clients and families to ensure a successful transition out of QRTP placement. This qualified candidate will be part of a multi-disciplinary team and work alongside the QRTP caseplanner, referring guardians for supportive services, including medical, clinical, and concrete services. Upon the youth's transition out of the QRTP program, the Aftercare Caseworker will provide continued casework support to the youth and their family until the youth's placement order expires, to ensure successful reintegration into the community and home. The case planner will present the program’s efforts in legal proceedings, ACS/OCFS meetings, and other interagency conferences. The qualified candidate will complete required progress notes, assessments, Psychosocial reports, FASPs, court reports, etc., within mandated timeframes.

Requirements

• Graduate/Master’s degree in a related Human Services field Required
• 1+ year work related experience with the knowledge and training in working with children and families including child development stages and family dynamics.
• Prior experience working with children and families known to the Child Welfare system, impacted by Abuse and Trauma preferred.
• Strong Engagement, Organizational and Communication skills.
• Knowledge of and commitment to child welfare best practice standards.
• Understanding and willingness to commit to the agency’s mission, core values, Sanctuary commitments and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and belonging (DEIB).
• Ability to accommodate a flexible work schedule, including evenings and weekends and to be on call for emergencies.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite.
• Demonstrate competency in child development.
• Demonstrate cultural competency.

Responsibilities

• Conduct regular casework sessions with each client in accordance with Federal, State, and Local mandates.
• Minimal monthly meeting with youth and family while youth is in placement.
• Meet with youth 2x weekly/legal guardian weekly for the first 6 weeks; once weekly thereafter.
• Home assessments within the first week of youth’s placement, monthly thereafter.
• Collateral contact weekly with youth's school/therapist/other resources.
• Document all contacts in designated platforms within established timeframes.
• Prepare all required documentation on each case which include progress notes, psychosocial reports, permanency hearing notes, FASPs, etc.
• Attend legal proceedings such as family court hearings.
• Actively participate in staff training and supervision meetings.
• Respond to emergencies as needed and/or directed.
• Participate in Family Team Conference, Child Safety conference and other organized conferences.
• Availability to assist with after-hour supports to clients and families.
• Provide after-care services to clients upon discharge from residential care.
• Participation in weekly supervision, program meetings, trainings and workshops to enhance professional development and advance program development initiatives.
• Establish and sustain a workplace environment that is respectful and supportive of staff, all members of family, community service providers, and other external stakeholders.
• Collaborate with other community-based service providers to advance client-specific needs and assist with obtaining services including, but not limited to housing, financial assistance, health care, mental health services, education services, legal advocacy, and parenting support.
• Training and Participation in the implementation of evidence-based/supported models of practice and treatment: Nurturing Parenting. Motivational Interviewing.

Benefits

• A comprehensive health insurance package including medical, dental and vision plans for you and your family
• 403B retirement benefits
• Employer-paid life insurance and long-term disability insurance
• Generous paid time off (vacation, personal, sick days, and 12 paid holidays)
• Free employee assistance program through National EAP
• Insurance discounts for our staff and their families
• Trainings to support professional and personal development
• Employee wellness program
• Employee recognition activities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level