Kinship Navigator

James City County•Williamsburg, VA

About The Position

Performs responsible work providing support and assistance to relatives and fictive kin of children who are identified as kinship caregivers. The goal of the Kinship Navigator program is to assist kinship caregivers on a voluntary basis in finding, learning about, and using programs and services to meet the needs of the children they are raising, as well as themselves. The program promotes effective partnerships among public and private agencies to ensure kinship families receive support to reduce crisis, prevent foster care or therapeutic placements.

Requirements

Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in a Human Services field or minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in any field with a minimum of two years of appropriate and related experience in a Human Services area; possession of a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or Master’s degree in Social Work and a Commonwealth of Virginia Social Worker license are preferred.
Must possess, or obtain within 30 days of hire, a valid Virginia driver’s license and have an acceptable driving record based on James City County’s criteria.
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer service including setting and meeting quality standards for services and evaluation of customer satisfaction; monitoring program fidelity and evaluation activities as evidenced by completion of required training and leadership techniques.
Knowledge of child welfare issues and regulations, child development and family dynamics and will be skilled at partnering with families to enhance the safety, stability, and wellbeing of kinship families through advocacy, education, and community collaboration.
Skill in use of computer software, especially Microsoft Office Suite.
Ability to analyze and use judgment in accomplishing diversified duties; think independently within the limits of policies, standards and precedents.
Duties are performed primarily in an office setting at the Human Services Building and in field locations throughout James City County, City of Williamsburg, York County, and Poquoson.
Eligible for regular telework (after successful 12-month introductory period).
This position is subject to Infection Control training and procedures.
Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including some nights and weekends.
Performs work safely in accordance with department safety procedures and County Safety Program; operates equipment safely and reports any unsafe work condition or practice to supervisor.

Nice To Haves

possession of a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or Master’s degree in Social Work and a Commonwealth of Virginia Social Worker license are preferred.

Responsibilities

Counsels and provides services to kinship caregivers by assessing needs and arranging necessary services to provide support, education and information to identified caregivers.
Advocates for kinship caregivers and follows-up with service providers after referrals are provided.
Collects necessary data to monitor program fidelity, support program evaluation, and program system improvement.
Coordinates with supervisor and fiscal managers to effectively disperse funding to support participants and program goals, and track budget line expenses.
Hosts and/or collaborates outreach and community awareness activities for the program, including the development and public dissemination of materials such as brochures, newsletters, social media and web announcements, and flyers.
Organizes and facilitates the regional Kinship Resource Council meetings to provide consultation to service providers in support of kinship caregivers. The Council includes representatives from the school systems, nonprofits, behavioral health partners, and 9th District Court Services.
Works closely with any assigned Family Services Specialist to ensure appropriate referrals are made for services by being knowledgeable of local services and resources.
Coordinates supportive activities to the caregivers and the children, such as a relative support group and a volunteer mentor program.
May perform other duties as assigned.