Recruitment and Family Support Specialist

Position Summary:

Under the general supervision of the Recruiting and Family Support Supervisor, this role is responsible for coordinating and facilitating all recruitment events as required by contract within designated counties. The position ensures that services are delivered in accordance with contractual obligations, as well as state, federal, and accrediting agency regulations.

Tasks/Responsibilities:

· Collaborate with the local MDHHS office faith-based communities and key foster adoptive kinship parents implement recruitment services prepared by the county office to meet the county's overall recruitment needs goals and the actions steps.

· Collaborate with MDHHS, Children’s Services Administration program office to recruit foster families to meet the need for respite services in their respective county as well as be prepared to help families within the region and be willing to take respite placements on an emergency basis.

· Collaborate with community partners including faith-based organizations federally recognized tribes, LGBTQIA communities, schools, hospitals, and other community-based stakeholders interested in supporting foster adoptive family recruitment that reflects the diversity of their community.

· Recruit families to meet the need for respite and in doing so consider recruitment for the following child characteristics and program types when determining recruitment targets. (age, race, sex and gender identity, sexual orientation, mental health needs, behavioral health needs, developmental needs, physical health needs, and program type (CMH, prevention, FC, Adoption and JJ).

· Send contact information for prospective foster and adoptive parents to the appropriate local county office or statewide recruitment telephone number as appropriate.

· Utilize recruitment material produced and or approved by MDHS External Affairs and Communication Administration

· Participate in committees’ meetings and advisory councils as deemed necessary by MDHHS including AFPR planning meetings.

· Present and distribute information on the foster home licensing process at civic clubs’ organizations, churches and community events.

· Able to develop a recruitment plan in collaboration with the CPA’s and JJ staff served in each perspective county. Recruitment should include but not limited to the following:

· Identifying existing foster homes on the verge of closing or have not had a placement in a year and may be willing to serve as a respite only provider, reaching out to pre adoptive homes, collaborating with foster care navigators and RRT recruiters.

· Meeting with MDHHS offices, CMHs, and CPAs to raise awareness of the program.

· If necessary, facilitate in cooperation with licensing staff, the license transfer to Heart for Home.

· Willing to respond to prospective respite foster home inquiries referred by the RRT teams, MDHHS Program office and/or CPA’s.

· Participate in technical assistance provided by MDHHS, CSA program office to develop new and enhanced recruitment strategies that may be needed.

· Input and maintain contact information in the appropriate county recruitment outcome tracking spreadsheet.

· Able to establish and measure progress towards the achievement of respite home recruitment goals based on the minimum number of respite beds required.

· Performs other agency related duties as assigned.

Core Responsibilities (required of all Heart for Home employees):

· Foster a positive working environment within Heart for Home.

· Maintain a professional and respectful demeanor with colleagues, clients, visitors, and the public.

· Actively participate in training sessions, staff meetings, and organizational activities as required.

· Contribute to special projects or additional assignments as needed.

· Adhere to Heart for Home's Employee Policies and Procedures.

· Maintain confidentiality regarding all matters related to Heart for Home affairs.

Other Knowledge, Skills and Ability:

· Knowledge of computer systems and relevant software.

· Foster a positive working environment within Heart for Home.

· Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

· Ability to relate to diverse populations and cultures while communicating with clients and the public in a courteous and effective manner.

· Ability to work independently and exercise good judgment.

Qualifications/Competencies:

· Bachelor's degree in social work or another related field, preferred. High school diploma minimum required.

· Experience working in public settings.

· Experience speaking to large groups.

· Excellent written and verbal communication and presentation skills.

· Prior experience with Microsoft Office.

· Reliable transportation.

· Able to work a flexible schedule with business hours set by Heart for Home to include some evenings and weekends, this position will require the ability to work from home or office.

· Satisfaction of all employment eligibility and agency hiring requirements

· Three years of experience in child welfare, Preferred.

· Must have a valid Michigan driver license, good driving record with zero work

· restrictions, and personal auto insurance as required by law.

· Strong conflict resolution and communication skills.

· Team-oriented with an understanding of parenting skills and assessments.

Certifications:

· NA

Working Conditions:

The Foster Parent Recruiter will primarily work remotely, utilizing digital communication tools and online platforms for recruitment efforts. Regular travel will be required for in-person recruitment events, community outreach, and meetings within the designated counties. While working remotely, the recruiter must have access to a reliable internet connection and a suitable workspace for conducting virtual meetings and administrative tasks.

This role requires flexibility in scheduling, as recruitment events may take place outside of standard working hours, including evenings and weekends. The recruiter will also need to transport promotional materials to events and collaborate with local agencies, ensuring compliance with all state, federal, and contractual regulations.

Salary Range:

· Part Time: $21.63-$26.44

Benefits:

· Employees whose 20-hours per week part-time employees will receive 2 week (80 hours) of PTO per year. Any employee with a status less than 20 hours will not receive PTO.

· Remote working environment.

· No insurance benefits are available at this time.

About Us:

Heart for Home became a passion project founded in Kalamazoo, MI. Driven by desire for supporting foster, adoptive and kinship families, our grassroots nonprofit was founded with the core belief that every family deserves unwavering support and respite care. We work to offer respite care that provides compassionate support, stability and a safe haven for foster, adoptive and kinship children. We aim to create a nurturing environment that respects individual needs, fosters strong relationships and promotes well-being, allowing families to thrive.

Mission:

Heart for Home is committed to connecting foster, adoptive and kinship children with supportive and healing homes for respite care. We strive to recruit, prepare and support FAK homes before, during and after by being honest, open-minded and listening to families needs and concerns in order to connect them with resources to be successful.

Values:

Integrity: We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of honesty, transparency, and ethical behavior in all our interactions and decisions. We hold ourselves accountable to the children, families, staff and communities we serve.

Inclusivity: We embrace diversity and strive to create an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported. We believe in the importance of providing equal opportunities and fostering a sense of belonging for all staff, children and families.

Community: We are dedicated to building strong, supportive networks within our community. By collaborating with families, volunteers, and partners, we work together to create a nurturing and safe environment for the children in our care.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $21.63 - $26.44 per hour

Expected hours: No more than 20 per week

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Evening shift
• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Kalamazoo, MI 49048

Salary : $22 - $26