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Foster Care Practicum Student

FamilyForward is a non-profit organization dedicated to moving vulnerable children in the direction of hope by delivering comprehensive therapeutic and education services to support biological, foster, and adoptive families. In addition to our work with foster care and adoption, FamilyForward also provides specialized services to prevent and treat abuse and neglect: trauma assessment and psychological evaluation, therapy, coaching and education, therapeutic preschool, and care for children with developmental disabilities.

Foster Care Practicum Students support case management staff while gaining supervised, hands-on experience in child and family services. Under the guidance of agency professionals, the student observes and assists with activities related to case planning, family engagement, and service coordination for children and families. Students may participate in meetings, observe court proceedings, and family visits.

The student will observe and support efforts to help connect families to community resources and permanency planning including documentation and transportation coordination.

FamilyForward is committed to upholding the Organizational Health Anchors that we have set for the agency, including safety; mindfulness and self-regulation; relational health; cultural diversity, inclusivity, equity, and anti-racism; clinical lens; vicarious trauma and compassion fatigue.

What to Expect as part of the Internship Experience

You will observe and assist with case management activities related to children's medical, educational, social, and emotional needs.

You'll observe and assist with visits involving biological parents, children, and caregivers in accordance with agency and contract requirements.

You will Identify and assist with connecting children and families to appropriate community resources and services.

You will assist with transportation or coordination of transportation for client appointments, Family Support Team (FST) meetings, court hearings, school-related activities, and placement transitions as appropriate.

You'll observe and participate in Family Support Team (FST) meetings and other case planning meetings as appropriate.

You will observe court hearings and assist with preparation of documentation according to agency policies and procedures.

You'll assist case managers in monitoring permanency goals and outcomes for children in foster care.

You will participate in additional projects or assignments that support learning objectives and agency needs.

You'll attend and observe monthly team meetings to learn interdisciplinary collaboration.

You might assist with additional tasks or projects that support program operations and the student's learning goals.

You would be a good fit for this opportunity if you:

Are currently enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate program in social work, psychology, human services, counseling, or a related field.

Interested in child welfare, foster care, or working with at-risk children and families.

Have a valid driver's license, auto insurance, and satisfactory driving record.

Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.

You have a commitment to learning professional practices that support positive outcomes for children and families.

Ability to manage time effectively and balance practicum responsibilities with academic requirements.

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, and procedure manuals.

Ability to write routine reports, summaries, and documentation with supervision.

Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors, staff, and families in individual and small group settings.

Ability to follow instructions provided in written and verbal form.

Ability to apply critical thinking skills to understand and respond to case management situations under supervision.

Working Conditions

This position requires sustained periods of work on the computer, including writing and documentation. The practicum student will frequently communicate with staff, families in-person, by phone, or through virtual meetings. The student will be asked to move around rooms or within a space. The student may occasionally be asked to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, or greater with assistance. The position may require travel to, and transportation of others to, agency sites, client homes, court hearings, or community meetings with some supervision where necessary. Occasional evening or weekend activities may occur depending on client needs and learning opportunities.

FamilyForward is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against employees because of their disability status, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, veteran status, or any other status protected under the law. FamilyForward is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace and will make reasonable accommodations to ensure the success of all employees.

Additional Notes

The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed, but are not to be seen as a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees so classified. Also, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.