ann arbor, Michigan
Adoption Navigator Job Opening in ann arbor, Michigan - Adoption Navigator Michigan Adoption Resource Exchange (MARE) is a statewide program, funded by the Michigan Department of Human Services (DHS) to promote adoption through out the State of Michigan. MARE networks with other adoption providers and promoters in the state to maximize the effectiveness of promoting adoption and finding homes for children waiting to be adopted. The Adoption Navigator program is a division of MARE that provides one on one guidance to prospective and current adoptive families to help them navigate Michigan?s foster care and adoption systems. Adoption Navigators are experienced foster, adoptive or kinship parents who provide information, support and guidance to families throughout the state. Summary of Position The Adoption Navigator is responsible for providing direction, guidance and support to families interested in adopting through Michigan?s foster care system. This can include but is not limited to answering questions about the homestudy, matching, placement and legal processes, the types of children waiting to be adopted and other supportive services available to families. Adoption Navigators work with social workers involved with adoptive families to assist with eliminating barriers to a successful adoption as well as engage in recruitment and public awareness activities to recruit permanent families for children in foster care. Competencies ? Ability to work independently and meet job requirements ? Ability to work in a team environment ? Excellent verbal and written communication skills ? Provide quality customer service primarily via phone and email ? Sensitive to the concerns of current and potential adoptive parents ? Ability to establish rapport quickly and effectively with families ? Ability to identify resources available to adoptive families statewide ? Ability to share personal experiences with adoption in a professional manner with the public ? Ability to maintain contract compliance ? Cultural competence Qualifications ? High school diploma or equivalent ? Personal experience with the child welfare system as a foster, adoptive, relative or kinship caregiver (adoption experience preferred) ? Knowledge of child welfare policies and procedures preferred ? Computer knowledge and skills ? Ability to related to current and prospective adoptive, foster and kinship families ? Ability to relate to local DHS and private agency personnel ? Ability to work a flexible schedule to accommodate families with whom the Adoption Navigator works with ? Ability to travel/work state wide as necessary ? A valid Michigan drivers license ? Central Registry Clearance documenting that there is no record of child abuse or neglect ? Internet Criminal History Access Tool (ICHAT) check and a National and State Sex Offender Registry check Environment ? Office environment ? Position may require evening and weekend hours and travel throughout Michigan ann arbor mi michigan
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