Community Connections Specialist

Bethany Christian Services•Lisle, IL

48d•$25 - $26

About The Position

The Community Connections Specialist is primarily responsible for assisting the program with providing intensive in-home case management. Family Strengthening's purpose is to maintain and strengthen family units by providing in-home services designed to prevent children from entering the foster care system. This program works with family strengths, monitors family dynamics, provides linkages to community resources, assists with housing or school issues, and provides information regarding child development and age-appropriate behavior and discipline, as well as general case management services. Emphasis is on child safety and keeping the family together. This position will serve clients in Kendall County, IL and is expected to function effectively with moderate supervision while following the guidelines given on procedures, along with agency, federal, and state regulatory requirements. The Community Connections Specialist will also be required to report to our Lisle office at least once per week.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Social Science, Human Services, Behavioral Sciences, or related field of study from an accredited college;
Must be willing and able to complete DCFS training upon hire;
Must possess the ability to engage, develop, and maintain positive community relationships with a diverse group of individuals;
Demonstrates excellent assessment, therapeutic and crisis intervention skills;
Excellent verbal and written communication skills;
Work well under pressure and adaptable to change;
Must have an ability to work flexible work hours to include some evenings and weekends;
Computer and typing skills sufficient to perform essential job functions;
Must be 21 years old with a valid driver's license with at least 3 years driving experience to operate a vehicle on behalf of Bethany. Must also pass a Motor Vehicle Records (MVR) check and maintain a reliable vehicle with proof of adequate insurance coverage;
Pass a criminal history screen, including state and local child protection agency registries;
Subscription to and integration of the agency Statement of Faith, Mission Statement, and Commitment to Unity.

Responsibilities

Conduct house visits to meet with families at various hours of the day as scheduled in some neighborhoods categorized as potentially high-risk;
Serve as a resource of information between all parties involved in the case and identified stakeholders regarding medical, educational and mental health providers;
Conduct visits with children, parents and/or caregivers that include the on-going assessment of child safety, permanency and well-being;
Conduct case management with Child Welfare Services (CWS) cases, as needed;
Develop and implement a plan that meets the needs of the children and the family;
Perform case management responsibilities in accordance with state and federal laws, Department of Children and Families Administrative Codes and Operating Procedures, funding source policies and internal policies on child abuse, abandonment, and neglect within required timeframes;
Attend court hearings, when required (per program or case mandated);
Travel on a regular basis to external parties;
Demonstrate flexibility with working hours outside of the normal business hours to meet the needs of the role to include some evenings and weekends, as needed;
Complete other duties as assigned.