What are the responsibilities and job description for the Foster Care Coordinator position at Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest?
Join Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest (LSS-SW), a nonprofit organization established in 1970 to assist our most vulnerable community members. LSS-SW is dedicated to delivering services that:
· STABILIZE during crises,
· BUILD self-reliant foundations, and
· PRESERVE dignity and respect.
Each month, LSS-SW supports over 5,000 Arizonans across Metro Phoenix, Tucson, and southern Arizona through programs in Refugee Services, Aging & Disability Services, Family Services, and Emergency Services.
Position Summary: The Program Coordinator provides daily supervision and support to program staff, ensuring the effective implementation of the Kinship Support Services Contract. This role collaborates with the Program Supervisor, community partners, and clients to deliver comprehensive program support while meeting contract requirements and maintaining compliance with licensing standards, state laws, and regulatory guidelines. The Coordinator actively participates in community engagement and recruitment activities, focusing on fostering relationships with prospective foster parents, kinship caregivers, and adoptive parents. The ideal candidate will demonstrate cultural sensitivity, strong organizational skills, and the ability to manage priorities efficiently.
Key Responsibilities:
Program Coordination & Community Engagement:
- Communicate and manage in-kind donation needs for foster families.
- Attend coalition meetings and represent the organization in public and professional settings.
- Assist with planning and executing special events, such as parent appreciation and family fun events.
- Develop written materials for families, including handbooks and brochures.
Contract Compliance:
- Review and approve monthly supervision reports and court documents for licensing and adoption.
- Ensure accurate and complete client files for funder audits and compliance.
- Plan and coordinate foster parent training to meet licensing requirements.
- Collaborate with the Program Supervisor to manage staff caseloads and provide field support.
- Prepare and submit internal/external reports, data tracking, and billing information.
- Develop and communicate program updates, community resources, and training opportunities.
Team Leadership & Supervision:
- Oversee onboarding for new staff and conduct one-on-one reflective supervision.
- Plan and co-facilitate monthly staff meetings and annual training sessions.
- Maintain relationships with collaborating agencies, community groups, and congregations.
Qualifications:
- A bachelor's degree in social work or a related field is preferred, as is five years of child welfare or human services experience.
- One year of supervisory experience is preferred.
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Ability to obtain Level One Fingerprint Clearance Card, clear DES Central Registry, criminal background check, and motor vehicle screening.
- Valid Arizona driver's license, reliable transportation, and clean driving record.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Outlook.
- Strong interpersonal, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Cultural competence and experience working with diverse populations.
- Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.
Join Our Mission:
If you are passionate about making a difference and have a strong career advisement background, join us in fulfilling the mission of LSS-SW to support and empower our community's most vulnerable members, and our vision of "A future where all people thrive."
All positions at Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest require a background check.
