MFT Parent Partner

About the role

MiFamily Together (MFT) Parent Partners work with parents to promote engagement in case activities via weekly phone, video, or face-to-face contacts. They serve Benzie, Manistee, and Mason counties, supporting the department's goal to reduce the number of children who experience out-of-home care.

Responsibilities

• Promote engagement in case activities via weekly phone, video, or face-to-face contacts.
• Support the safety and wellbeing of families by fostering meaningful engagement and providing tailored support.
• Attend training as required within the program and agency.
• Coach parents on what to expect throughout the child welfare process.
• Help maintain connections between parents and children by observing and advocating for children and family rights.
• Aid parents in identifying and advocating for their needs.
• Provide permanency, encouragement, outreach, and advocacy by connecting parents to resources within their communities.
• Collaborate with the MFT team to support the family and provide services.
• Complete all required MDHHS and MFT documentation within established timeframes.
• Support families by attending Family Team Meetings or Team Decision Meetings, court hearings, treatment and recovery appointments, or other events with parents.
• Facilitate a monthly one-hour voluntary support group meeting to all caregivers engaged in Parent Partner services.
• Transport adults or children with parent(s) present utilizing personal vehicle, as needed.
• Drive for agency business.
• Perform other duties as assigned per supervisor’s request.

Requirements

• A previously personal opened CPS or foster care case with successful case closure.
• A stable family situation without current Children’s Protective Services (CPS) substantiation for safety issues.
• No confirmed child abuse reported during the role of Parent Partner.
• Flexibility to attend meetings and facilitate groups including non-standard work hours such as evenings and weekends to meet client needs.
• Participation in mandated training(s), supervision, and team meetings.
• A willingness to share parenting experiences as a learning tool with other parents, community partners, and referring workers.
• Reliable transportation with a valid driver’s license, good driving record, and personal auto insurance as required by law.
• Able to work a flexible schedule based on needs of the clients served.

Qualifications

• Education: None required.
• Experience: A minimum of 1 year of prior work experience working with children and/or families is preferred.
• Professional Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations: none required.

Skills

• Strong communication skills.
• Ability to build rapport and trust with clients.
• Flexibility and adaptability to meet the needs of clients.
• Knowledge of child welfare systems and processes.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Benefits

Commensurate with experience.

Pay

Up to $20.79/hour.

Schedule

Flexible schedule based on needs of the clients served.