Enhanced Foster Care Specialist

Catholic Charities West Michigan•Grand Rapids, MI

9d•$45,000

About The Position

The Enhanced Foster Care Specialist position is responsible for the day to day functioning of the Enhanced Foster Care program. Are you passionate about discovering new ways to help empower people and make a difference in their lives? If you’ve got what it takes to support us in our mission to provide help and create hope through innovative, collaborative, and diverse programs within the community, then we’ve got the right opportunity for you. About Catholic Charities West Michigan Catholic Charities West Michigan (CCWM) is a community-based agency providing programs in Western Michigan and offering a variety of services in family preservation, behavioral health, child welfare, and community outreach. CCWM is committed to ensuring a diverse workforce and a work environment whereby all staff are treated with dignity, respect, and fairness. CCWM encourages persons of diverse backgrounds and faiths to apply for employment.

Requirements

Knowledge of the DHHS computer systems and any other computer systems required by contract.
Ability to utilize a computer to create work documents and to perform email functions.
Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Must have reliable personal transportation (vehicle), as travel is required to meet agency needs.
Must have strong conflict resolution skills and ability to work with difficult individuals.
Must have strong engagement skills, coping skills and patience for difficult situations.
This position requires reliable transportation.
Must have a valid Michigan driver’s license, good driving record with zero work restrictions, and personal auto insurance as required by law.
Must be willing to work irregular hours including evenings, holidays, and weekends.
Must submit to Agency approved background checks.
Education: A Bachelor's Degree in social work, sociology, psychology or a human service related area as specified by MSA and BCAL rules is required.
Experience: At least one (2) years experience working in Child Welfare or Family systems along with experience in assessment and treatment planning is required.
Completion of Child Welfare Training Institute (CWTI) is required.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations: CWTI Certification

Nice To Haves

A Master's Degree in a human services field is preferred.
State of Michigan Social Work licensure is preferred.

Responsibilities

Maintains a small, specialized caseload (8 youth) to provide intensive, individualized support for Enhanced Foster Care (EFC) children.
Leads the development, coordination, and implementation of individualized care plans while providing direction and oversight to the multidisciplinary team.
Serves as a primary care coordinator for youth with complex behavioral and mental health needs
Participates in the orientation and training of foster parents.
Works in partnership with a Foster Care Worker, rather than independently, on intake, placement, and program evaluation.
Assists in transporting clients when needed.
Completes and submits required CCWM, and MDHHS documents, specific to EFC, within the required time frames.
Collaborates with Behavior Specialist to ensure effective delivery and utilization of behavioral health needs and mental health services for children and families.
Complies with the following: The policies and procedures of the Division of Child Welfare Licensing (DCWL) The policies and procedures of the DHHS Child Placing Agency (State Services Manual) PAFC Contract expectations from DHHS Standards of accreditation for the Agency; Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). CCWM Child Welfare program expectations
Maintains contact with the child, biological family, caregiver, attorneys, therapists, school personnel and/or other service providers related to the implementation of the service plan.
Supports the Foster Care Team as needed upon request.
Provides hands-on crisis support, including de-escalation and client transportation when needed.
Attends supervision, staff program trainings, and agency meetings.
Function in leadership and support role within the foster care team, reflecting a higher level of responsibility than traditional case management.
Drives for Agency business.
Performs other special assignments at supervisor’s request.