Foster Care Case Manager

Bethany Christian Services•East Lansing, MI

32d

About The Position

At Bethany Christian Services, we believe families provide the strongest foundation for care and connection. That's why we focus on strengthening and empowering families, always advocating for family-centered solutions to keep children safe. Our work began in 1944 with the care of a single child. Today, inspired by our faith, our aim is to demonstrate the love and compassion of Jesus in our services for children, youth, and families. Working at Bethany means joining a team of nearly 2,000 dedicated professionals with diverse skills, serving communities across the country. Together, we're united in our mission and these shared values: we're motivated by our faith, we support one another, we champion justice, we pursue excellence, and we're in it for the long haul. The Foster Care Case Manager is primarily responsible for providing case management services for abused, neglected children who may also be delinquency wards in foster care. This individual is also responsible for ensuring the overall safety of the child in care. This position is expected to function effectively with moderate supervision while following the guidelines given on procedures, along with agency, federal, and state regulatory requirements.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Social Science, Human Services, Behavioral Sciences, or related field of study from an accredited college
At least one (1) year of prior case management experience in child and family services
Must have a broad knowledge of basic principles, concepts, and methodology of human services as acquired through a Bachelor's level degree
Demonstrate an understanding of the effects that separation and loss, neglect, physical and sexual abuse has on a child
Knowledge of state, community and agency resources
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Demonstrated clinical, therapeutic, and crisis intervention skills
Ability to work independently and exercise a high level of confidentiality
Adheres to all agency and departmental safety procedures including reporting any unsafe practices, equipment and environment, and takes an active role in correcting the unsafe practice, equipment or environment through proper notification channels
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 in the U.S. 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

Provide case management services to children in foster care
Attend and testify at court hearings, as necessary
Maintain effective contact with attorneys, therapists, CASA workers, and/or other providers
Maintain current and accurate client records, case files, record notes, and medical records
Comply with the reporting guidelines established by the organization, Department of Child Services (DCS), and the court, while submitting all required reports in a timely manner
Provide services that empower clients and adhere to the organization's standards of ethical Practice
Coordinate and facilitate the completion of the treatment plan, and maintain contact with all providers to include attending child and family team meetings
Meet with foster parents at least monthly to assist with and ensure the appropriate care is given to foster children
Investigate child abuse and neglect in accordance with program expectations and guidelines
Recommend whether the parental rights should be terminated in a timely manner that ensure the safety of the child
Participate in on-call system and schedule, as necessary
Assess the safety and appropriateness of the placement on an ongoing basis using child welfare principles and social work best practices
Attend weekly meetings with supervisor to consult on cases, and to review case plan and direction
Partner with the Licensing and Placement Specialist regarding foster parent complaints
Keep abreast of community resources and refer foster families for support, as needed
Stay abreast of all agency, federal, and state regulatory requirements related to social services
Complete other duties as assigned.