Social Worker

Wellspring Lutheran Services•Lansing, MI

14d•Hybrid

About The Position

The MFT Advocate works with families participating in Michigan’s MiFamily Together program with Wellspring Lutheran Services. The program uses a coordinated, whole-family approach to preserve families, reduce unnecessary out-of-home placements, support reunification, and strengthen family well-being. The Advocate serves as a guide, partner, teacher, coach, and source of support for families facing challenges such as housing instability, mental health concerns, substance use, parenting struggles, financial hardship, or child welfare involvement. The role focuses on building trusting relationships, identifying family strengths, developing skills, connecting families with resources, and supporting long-term safety and stability. The position combines work from a home office or another designated workspace with in-home visits and community outreach throughout the assigned service area. Travel is required, mileage is paid, and multi-county contracts may involve extended travel. Advocates work in varied home and community environments and must be available evenings, weekends, and holidays. Schedules may change based on family needs, and the position involves frequent interruptions and driving in all weather conditions.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in social work, a related human service field, or education; alternatively, an associate's degree with two years of experience working with families is acceptable if the candidate is actively working toward a bachelor's degree in human services or education to be completed within six months.
Experience working with children and families.
Familiarity with child welfare systems, community resources, and protective factors frameworks.
Meet all position requirements, including required screenings, licensure and insurance requirements, and technology expectations.
Ability to maintain a flexible schedule that supports family needs.
Ability to travel throughout the assigned service area and drive in all weather conditions.
Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Nice To Haves

Reside within the assigned service area; preference will be given to applicants who do.

Responsibilities

Build meaningful, trusting partnerships with families using a respectful, strength-based approach.
Help families identify goals, navigate challenges, and build on existing strengths.
Work with caregivers to enhance protective factors, address safety concerns, and develop plans for family stability.
Support families in building parenting and life skills and creating stable environments for children.
Connect families with community resources and services, including healthcare, education, housing, transportation, and public benefits.
Collaborate with schools, healthcare providers, child welfare professionals, referral sources, and community agencies to coordinate effective support.
Support outcomes that promote family well-being and lasting safety beyond the end of services.