What are the responsibilities and job description for the INDEPENDENT LIVING SPECIALIST / SWAN PERMANENCY SPECIALIST position at JusticeWorks?
FULL TIME INDEPENDENT LIVING SPECIALIST / SWAN PERMANENCY SPECIALIST - VENANGO COUNTY, PA
KidsFirst! In everything we do, the needs and concerns of youth and families are our fundamental concern. Our core principle is to do “whatever it takes” to help youth and families in our care achieve success. JusticeWorks provides innovative programs that identify and build on youths and families’ strengths. We create structure to positively redirect their lives. We help youth become good citizens and assist their families to resolve their problems and to be supportive of their children.
JusticeWorks YouthCare is seeking an Independent Living Specialist / SWAN Permanency Specialist to join our team. As an Independent Living Specialist / SWAN Permanency Specialist, you will be responsible for providing guidance and resources to youth, helping them to develop the skills necessary for independent living. This includes creating and implementing strategies to assist young people in making successful transitions into adulthood, while also ensuring their safety and well-being. You will be the liaison between the youth and a variety of community resources, including housing, education and employment opportunities.
You will also provide essential services to families and children in the foster care system who need permanency and stability in their lives. You will be responsible for developing and maintaining partnerships with local and state adoption agencies in order to ensure children in foster care have access to resources that support their long-term success. Additionally, you will work to improve the legal and emotional permanency outcomes for children and families involved in the adoption and foster care system. If you are passionate about working in the field of Juvenile Justice, Child Welfare or Social Work, we are looking for you!
The qualified Independent Living Specialist / SWAN Permanency Specialist will:
- Interact with IL youth on a one-on-one basis providing individual instruction as deemed necessary per his/her IL plan and living situation to transition to self-sufficiency through exploration of education, career, vocational, employment, daily living skills, fiscal and budgeting, substance abuse and prevention activities.
- Assist youth in acquiring items earned through the stipend program.
- Engage families and youth in order to gather pertinent data needed for profiles.
- Provide/facilitate training to pre-adoptive families as required.
- Complete specific training in Child Preparation, Child Profile, Child Specific Recruitment, and Family Profile Units of Service.
- Meet all benchmarks as outlined by SWAN.
- Transport clients utilizing personal vehicle, as necessary.
The qualified Independent Living Specialist / SWAN Permanency Specialist will have:
- High School Diploma required.
- Valid driver’s license, auto insurance and access to a vehicle.
- Pass current, applicable clearances.
- Pass pre-employment, post-offer drug screening.
- Ability to work non-traditional hours including evenings and weekends.
The qualified Truancy Prevention Specialist / SWAN Permanency Specialist will receive the following benefits:
- Medical, Dental, Vision and Wellness Program.
- 401K with company match.
- Company paid life insurance.
- Company paid short term and long-term disability.
- Tuition Reimbursement.
- Company paid holidays and paid time off.
- Employee referral bonus.
- Clearance reimbursement and renewal.