Support Caseworker - Foster Care and Adoption

Lutheran Services in Iowa•Council Bluffs, IA

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

LSI is seeking a compassionate, dedicated, full-time, self-motivated Support Caseworker to make an impact in the lives of Iowa children and families in Page, Mont, Pott, Fremont, and Mills counties. The Support Caseworker is the single point of contact for foster and adoptive families, responsible for providing ongoing, proactive support throughout the process, including recruitment, inquiry, training, licensing, matching, placement support, and post-placement care. This role requires cultural competence and collaboration with a team to match children with suitable homes. The position also involves completing home study renewals and updates for licensed resource families within a set timeline, and requires familiarity with Iowa Department of Health and Human Services licensing and adoption rules, as well as the Iowa Code. Some travel to homes across western Iowa may be required.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in social work, human services, or behavioral health.
Minimum of one year of experience within the child welfare field.
Ability to communicate effectively.
Skills, energy, and desire to collaborate with foster and adoptive families with children in their care.
Valid driver's license.
Auto insurance.
Good driving record.
Ability to pass an extensive background check including checks of the Dependent Adult and Child Abuse registries, Sex Offender registry and a criminal history check.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

Provide ongoing, proactive support to foster and adoptive families.
Serve as the single point of contact for families, answering questions, concerns, and needs.
Support families through recruitment, inquiry, training, licensing, matching, and placement.
Provide support following the child leaving the home.
Deliver all services in a culturally competent manner.
Collaborate with a team to match the best home for each child.
Complete home study renewals and updates for currently licensed resource families within a set timeline.
Ensure familiarity with all licensing and adoption rules through the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services and the Iowa Code.