Kinship Navigator Specialist - Social Worker-Dubuque Area
About The Position
Four Oaks is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Kinship Navigator Specialist to support children and families by helping children remain connected to relatives and other trusted individuals. The specialist works with kinship caregivers who provide safe, stable, and nurturing homes, partnering with children, parents, relatives, fictive kin, and community professionals to identify needs, address barriers, and promote positive outcomes. The role involves assessing caregiver needs and creating individualized Kinship Support Plans with achievable goals and action steps. The specialist helps families access essential services and community resources, strengthens caregiver support systems, and collaborates with families and community partners to maintain stable placements, support reunification when appropriate, and prioritize child safety. A strengths-based approach is used to empower caregivers and build lasting family stability.
Requirements
- A bachelor's, master's, or associate degree in social work or a human services-related field, plus two years of full-time paid experience in child welfare; alternatively, a master's degree in human services.
Nice To Haves
- Prior experience working with foster and adoptive families.
Responsibilities
- Support kinship caregivers who provide safe and loving homes for children within their extended families or natural support systems.
- Partner with children, parents, relatives, fictive kin, and community professionals to identify needs, overcome barriers, and create positive outcomes.
- Assess caregiver needs and develop individualized Kinship Support Plans with goals and action steps.
- Help caregivers access childcare, food assistance, clothing, furniture, transportation assistance, and medical, dental, and mental health care.
- Assist families in accessing community programs, financial assistance, medical insurance, and legal support when needed.
- Connect caregivers with support groups and community resources that encourage shared experiences, emotional support, and connection.
- Collaborate with families and community partners to maintain stable placements, support reunification when appropriate, and prioritize child safety.
- Use a strengths-based approach to help families recognize their abilities, build confidence, and create lasting stability.
Benefits
- Flexible work schedule
- Medical insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Generous paid leave package
- Seven paid holidays
- Career growth and advancement opportunities
- Educational discounts
- Supportive, team-oriented workplace
- Business casual work environment
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
