Therapeutic Foster Engagement Specialist

Overview

Provides for the safety, stability and well-being of children and families during the referral period. Delivers culturally competent, strengths-based case management services to children and families consistent with the evidence-based practice models. Develops and oversees the implementation of a Targeted Diligent Recruitment strategy for increasing the number of TFFHs and respite homes for children or youth with high acuity needs. Develops an outreach plan for contacting populations identified.

Undertakes external marketing using appropriate media to research, identify and motivate individuals with experience and skills in working with children with high acuity needs. This will include intensive recruiting efforts within the medical, educational and juvenile services fields. Participates in internal staff recruitment efforts when job/volunteer opportunities arise. Trains current licensed foster homes to become Therapeutic Family Foster Home and Therapeutic Family Respite homes.

Develops a Mentor Program, including identifying expectations, training, and matching mentor families with TFFHs. Creates and distributes feedback surveys to continually improve mentoring process. Facilitates development and implementation of support groups, Pressley Ridge and other training, mentoring, and incentives for both children and parents, to include on-site activities for children and youth, and a virtual option for families when needed.

Carries out research to benchmark and identify best practice in resourcing and recruitment within the field of Therapeutic Foster Care. Works closely with Therapeutic Specialists, Behavioral Interventionists, and other team members. Develops and maintains quality standards in compliance with DCF Standards for TFFH, CO, and the National Family Focused Treatment Association. Develops a referral process.

• Provides for the safety, stability and well-being of children and families during the referral period
• Delivers culturally competent, strengths-based case management services to children and families consistent with the evidence-based practice models
• Develops and oversees the implementation of a Targeted Diligent Recruitment strategy for increasing the number of TFFHs and respite homes for children or youth with high acuity needs.
• Develops an outreach plan for contacting populations identified.
• Undertakes external marketing using appropriate media to research, identify and motivate individuals with experience and skills in working with children with high acuity needs. This will include intensive recruiting efforts within the medical, educational and juvenile services fields.
• Participates in internal staff recruitment efforts when job/volunteer opportunities arise.
• Trains current licensed foster homes to become Therapeutic Family Foster Home and Therapeutic Family Respite homes.
• Develops a Mentor Program, including identifying expectations, training, and matching mentor families with TFFHs. Creates and distributes feedback surveys to continually improve mentoring process.
• Facilitates development and implementation of support groups, Pressley Ridge and other training, mentoring, and incentives for both children and parents, to include on-site activities for children and youth, and a virtual option for families when needed.
• Carries out research to benchmark and identify best practice in resourcing and recruitment within the field of Therapeutic Foster Care.
• Works closely with Therapeutic Specialists, Behavioral Interventionists, and other team members.
• Develops and maintains quality standards in compliance with DCF Standards for TFFH, CO, and the National Family Focused Treatment Association.
• Develops a referral process.

• Requires a bachelor's degree in communications or a human services field
• Requires at least two years of experience in child welfare and/or family services; marketing experience preferred
• Requires a detailed understanding of foster parenting
• Must possess a valid Driver's License, have in force automobile liability insurance coverage, and maintain a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) that meets organization's insurability standard as defined by DCCCA policy. Availability of reliable transportation is required for this position.

• Regular and predictable on-site attendance.
• Proficiency with computers and Microsoft suite of products including Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to efficiently operate other office equipment such as telephones, voicemail systems, copy and fax machines, and scanners.
• Adherence to DCCCA Values:
  • We provide education and services based on research and a dedicated commitment to improving lives.
• We value the people and communities we serve by respecting their experiences and treating them with dignity and respect.
• We encourage leadership at all levels by challenging existing conditions and finding innovative ways to grow and learn.
• We deliver high quality services every day,…