Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Program Coordinator

Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)

Program Coordinator TITLE:

Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Program Coordinator

REPORTS TO

CLASSIFICATION:

EXEMPT HOURS

FULL

TIME - 40

hours per week. Some weekends and evenings may be required

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The CASA Program Coordinator at Voices for Children Advocacy Center (VCAC) will aid in the supervision and management of the CASA program. This includes ensuring the operations, compliance, reporting, recruitment and training. This position plays a critical role in ensuring the best interest of children in foster care. Voices for Children Voices for Children is the accredited children's advocacy center providing services to child survivors of abuse, neglect, or human trafficking. The Center provides behavioral and developmental health services to these children and their non-offending family members to help them heal and thrive. Voices for Children also houses the Genesee County Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Program and provides community education on preventing child abuse.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB

Program Administration:

Develop and implement program policies, procedures, and guidelines in accordance with state and local regulations. Maintain program records, case files, and statistics accurately.

Volunteer Recruitment and Training:

Recruit, screen, and select suitable CASA volunteers. Provide comprehensive training to volunteers on child advocacy, legal procedures, and reporting.

Supervision and Support:

Supervise CASA volunteers' work, ensuring they fulfill their duties effectively. Offer guidance, support, and mentorship to volunteers in handling cases. Co-facilitate and conduct monthly CASA Information Sessions, Volunteer Voice events, and CASA Chats.

Case Assignment:

Assign CASA volunteers to specific child welfare cases based on their skills and availability. Monitor caseloads to ensure equitable distribution among volunteers. Collaboration and Communication Maintain communication with the juvenile records department at 7th Circuit Court regarding court hearings and court orders. Collaborate with the court system, social services agencies, and other stakeholders involved in child welfare cases. Attend court hearings and meetings related to CASA cases.

Advocacy:

Advocate for the best interests of children in court, providing recommendations to judges regarding placement and services. Ensure that CASA volunteers effectively advocate for the children they represent.

Training and Professional Development:

Organize ongoing training and professional development opportunities for CASA volunteers. Stay updated on child welfare laws and best practices.

Community Outreach and Fundraising:

Promote awareness of the CASA program within the community. Participate in fundraising activities to secure resources for the program. Other Duties As assigned by the supervisor, director or CEO Attend staff meetings and assist in the evaluation of the program. Compile statistical case information as required by local, state and National CASA programs. Assist in volunteer appreciation events. Provides staff and CASA training for VOCA related activities.

Qualification, Skills, Knowledge:

Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or a related field (Master's degree preferred). Experience in child advocacy, social work, or a related field. Strong organizational and communication skills. Knowledge of child welfare laws and court procedures. Leadership and supervisory experience. Commitment to the welfare and rights of children. Experience in child welfare, child development, juvenile law and volunteer program management preferred; experience working with children and/or youth strongly preferred. Skill in working with identifying community resources and recruiting volunteers. Excellent written, composition and oral communication skills. Skill in assessing, evaluating, prioritizing and handling multiple tasks, projects and demands and working with deadlines and in evaluating, analyzing, identifying and recommending solutions to complex problems. Skill in operating a personal computer utilizing a variety of commonly used and specialized software applications. Must be flexible with hours and be available for evening meetings or events. Demonstrate respect of all people regardless of socioeconomic background, culture, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or gender.

Additional Relevant Skills and Qualities:

Ability to work cooperatively with families, parents, and community members Must be an exemplary communicator Outstanding interpersonal relations skills with colleagues and all community partners including families Ability to develop and maintain strength-based and professional relationships with families, groups and individuals Must be social media, Microsoft Office, and general database proficient Ability to sit at a desk, complete computer work, occasional light lifting Must maintain strict confidentiality with written and verbal communication Nonjudgmental approach that reflects cultural responsiveness, respectfulness, responsibility and sensitivity to the unique needs and diverse experiences of families with young children and the ability to relate well with people of all ages, abilities, religions, genders, races and socioeconomic backgrounds

Work Environment and Physical Requirements:

The physical environment is an office building. Ability to sit at a desk, complete computer work, and light lifting is required.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

From $46,000.00 per year

Work Location:

In person