Respite House Parent

Location/Schedule

This position is available as either Full‑Time
, working approximately 16 full days per month (benefits eligible), or PRN/Part‑Time
, working up to 12 days per month (non‑benefits eligible). This is a variable schedule role providing respite coverage for Bridging Families and Bridging Futures program homes across Western North Carolina, including Avery County, Hendersonville, Winston‑Salem, the Metrolina region, and the Smoky Mountain region. Overnight stays in program homes are required for the duration of each respite shift and may include evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Respite events typically last 1–4 full days (24‑hour coverage, 1‑4 days at a time).
Housing is not provided while off‑shift
. Additional regional travel may include visits to agencies, clinics, hospitals, offices, and field trip locations.

As a Respite Bridge Parent, you will play a vital role in supporting children in foster care by providing continuation of care in a safe, therapeutic, and nurturing home while full‑time live‑in Bridge Parents are on respite. Your work helps children and families heal from cycles of trauma and supports brighter, more stable futures by promoting resilience, healthy habits, education, and personal growth.

You will serve as a positive role model and mentor, helping children build confidence, life skills, and emotional well‑being. As part of a collaborative and compassionate team, you’ll work alongside dedicated professionals who share your commitment to making a meaningful difference, all while finding purpose, fulfillment, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Full‑Time: $37,000–$43,000 annually; PRN/Daily Rate: $202.00–$235.00 per day.

• Compensation is based on experience and qualifications. Candidates who meet only the minimum requirements can expect to start at the beginning of the range, while those with additional and relevant experience and/or advanced skills may be considered for higher starting pay within the range.

• Defined Contribution Benefits Plan including options for:
  • Health/Dental/Vision Insurance - $0 copay for mental health visits with our health insurance
  • Life, Short‑Term Disability, and Long‑Term Disability plans
  • Critical Illness and Accident coverage options
  • Flexible Spending Plan
• 401k with employer match (up to 6%)
• Paid Parental Leave - Based on Tenure
• Ongoing Training

• High School Diploma/GED required. Bachelor’s degree in human services or related field strongly preferred. An equivalent combination of education and experience is also acceptable.
• Minimum of two years experience in working with children and families required, preferably in a mental health or child welfare setting.
• Prior residential/house parent experience or previous foster parent experience and knowledge of age‑appropriate living skills strongly preferred.

• Culturally Competent Parenting:
  Ability to care for children of all ages, races, nationalities, sexual orientations, gender identities, disabilities, and backgrounds.
• Trauma‑Informed Care:
  Knowledge of child development and how it is impacted by trauma; ability to provide trauma‑informed care and support.
• Communication and Interpersonal
  
  Skills:
  
  Strong verbal and written communication skills; ability to interface well with others, including children, birth parents, and professionals.
• Flexibility and Adaptability:
  Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment, adapt to changing situations, and prioritize tasks effectively.
• Emotional Intelligence and Empathy:
  Ability to understand and manage one's own emotions and those of others; empathetic and compassionate approach to working with children and families.
• Collaboration and Teamwork:
  Ability to work collaboratively with others, including birth parents, professionals, and community partners.
• Resilience and Self‑Care:
  Ability to manage stress and prioritize self‑care to maintain a high level of emotional and physical well‑being.

• As assigned to provide respite, resides onsite and provides twenty‑four‑hour support and supervision for up to 6 foster youth.
• Ensures the physical,…