Visitation Specialist

Description

WHO IS YFA?

We tackle some of the world's toughest problems. Our employees are an incredible group of compassionate, committed individuals, drawn by the opportunity to make a difference. Year after year, our employees report they are proud to work here and are willing to go above and beyond in service of our mission to create a safe, nurturing environment for children.

Youth and Family Alternatives, Inc. (YFA) a progressive not-for-profit organization of 350+ staff who are dedicated to working in partnership with communities and families to create a safe, nurturing environment for children and to lead the way in building a bridge for children to have a stable and loving family. This is why “Family” is our middle name! Established in 1970, YFA has been around for over 50 years, with services spanning seven counties across Florida.

No matter the role, we believe every team member at YFA has a critical role in supporting our children and our communities and we constantly strive to ensure a positive, purpose-driven, dynamic work environment for you to learn, grow and meet your fullest potential. If these values appeal to you and you would like to invest your time, energy, and talent in a cause that can make a difference in a child and family’s future, then we may have a place for you on our team!

POSITION SUMMARY: This position will facilitate parent-child visitation and enhance quality parent engagement efforts.

WHAT YOU WILL DO:

• Impartially observe and document interactions between non-residential parents/guardians and children; facilitate or terminate visits as needed.
• Communicate with attorneys, Guardians Ad Litem, courts, and other parties to ensure effective service delivery.
• Ensure visiting rooms are clean and safe for use.
• Orient families to the visitation center and explain procedures before the first visit.
• Develop visitation plans and schedules for families.
• Assist with data collection and entry for the KCI Clearinghouse databases.
• Complete monthly, quarterly, and annual reports.
• Attend court hearings and serve as a record custodian for supervised visits.
• Provide training for staff, focusing on skills for working with at-risk clients.
• Report incidents and accidents according to policy.
• Assist with special events or projects for the visitation center.
• Ability to incorporate a trauma informed approach in communicating with staff and families.
• Participate in quality improvement processes.
• Proficient knowledge of Microsoft programs.
• Arrive on time and ready to work.
• Adhere to EEO compliance and promote dignity and respect in the workplace.
• Work cooperatively in a team setting.
• Show respect for others and follow guidance from supervisors.
• Uphold the core values and mission of the agency.
• Handle confidential information appropriately.
• Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.
• Set appropriate boundaries with clients.
• Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills.
• Complete monthly, quarterly, and annual reports as requested or required
• Objectively observe the contact between the parent/caregiver and the child(ren).
• Document observations in Florida Safe Families Network (FSFN) and other required documents.
• Provide coaching to parents and caregivers regarding the purpose of visits and engaging with the children.
• Complete case management tasks during provisional certification or as needed.
• Accurately observe and report interactions and intervene when necessary for client protection.
• Assist with quality parent engagement training and efforts in collaboration with case managers, utilizing a team approach to skills building for working with families.
• Handle emergencies and life-threatening situations effectively.
• Manage stressful situations well.
• Use computer skills for essential tasks.
• Be aware of the socio-cultural characteristics of the service population.
• Exhibit excellent listening skills.
• Complete other assigned tasks or special projects.
• Be trained and authorized to access protected health information.

Location: 7235 US Highway 19, New Port Richey, FL 34652

Requirements

WHAT YOU NEED: BSW/BA or MSW/MA degree; 1-year direct experience in child welfare or related field preferred. Full CWCM certification preferred.

Physical Requirements: Ability to travel statewide on a regular basis; ability to bend, lift,