Family Search and Engagement Specialist-Daphne

For over 35 years, Youth Villages has transformed the lives of children and families nationwide through innovative, research-based programs focused on preserving and restoring families.

As a national leader in children’s mental and behavioral health, we serve more than 47,000 youth, young people, and their families annually across 29 states and Washington, D.C. Our proven treatment models drive long-term success in child welfare, juvenile justice, and mental health systems. At Youth Villages, we do what works — partnering with others to expand our impact and advocate for meaningful, lasting change.

We're seeking purpose-driven individuals who are passionate about making a difference. With a dedicated team of more than 5,000 staff, Youth Villages is committed to investing in and supporting our employees by offering opportunities to build a fulfilling career through professional growth, personal development, and a mission that matters— helping children and families live successfully.

For more information, please visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..org

Position Overview:

The Family Search and Engagement Specialist engages social services agencies to identify youth where family finding is needed and gathers materials for a strong assessment of the family and community. Once connections are found, the Specialist contacts them to determine interest and appropriateness for connecting with the child and serving as a resource or support. The Specialist then works to support youth in developing meaningful connections, strengthening their sense of identity, and assessing the living arrangements to be safe and preventing re-entry into the foster care system.

Additionally, the Family Search and Engagement Specialist will have responsibilities related to engaging community stakeholders to establish high levels of communication and collaboration.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

The Family Search and Engagement Specialist:

Conducts viable family searches and administers family assessments

Contacts any biological relatives or other adult kinship or fictive kin Meets with case workers to gather verbal and written information about youth and families

Contacts previous or current mental health and/or physical health providers to gather pertinent information about the youth and family that is vital to comprehensive care Contacts previous or current educational institutions

Meets regularly with agency leadership

Effectively manages and navigates family search engines

Implements indicated assessment tools

Builds positive relationships with key community stakeholders by pursuing case referrals through family finding work Establishes relationships with key community providers including psychologists, psychiatrists, mental health centers, school groups, community groups, juvenile court personnel, human services workers, and social workers

Responds to customer service needs and monitors customer satisfaction

Maintains ongoing contact with key referral sources

Completes 3-month post discharge calls to families to assess the youth’s stability in the community

Performs other duties as assigned

Additional Information:

Schedule is flexible and non-traditional as it is based around the availability of youth and families served.

Applicants must possess a current, valid driver’s license, an automobile for work purposes, and proof of auto insurance.

Community-based staff will be reimbursed for applicable mileage.

Qualifications:

Master’s degree in a social services discipline (preferred)
Bachelor's degree in social services field (required)
Degrees that can be considered include: social work, drug and alcohol education or counseling, psychology, criminal justice, guidance counseling, or marriage and family therapy (others subject to review)
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail

Excellent written, verbal, and oral skills

Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously

Basic computer knowledge

Ability to maintain a flexible schedule

Youth Villages Benefits Medical, Dental, Prescription Drug Coverage and Vision
401(k)
Time off:2 week paid vacation (full-time) / 1 week paid vacation (part-time)12 paid sick days per year
11 paid holidays

Paid…