Professional House Parents

POSITION PURPOSE

Responsible for parenting a cottage of six foster clients within the Program Cottages.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent and at least two years relevant child care experience
• At least 21 years of age
• Strong general knowledge of child and youth development and the child welfare system
• Flexibility to handle various program responsibilities
• Computer proficiency: Proficient in Excel, Word, and Outlook

PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS

• Ensure all care of all clients, procedures, rules, regulations, standards, and operating protocol are in compliance with organizational and contractual policies and DCF regulations at all times.
• Maintain accurate record keeping in charts, logbooks, records and licensing compliance to assure that best practices are in place and being utilized at all times.
• Maintain all required trainings within required timeframes.
• Meeting and ensure all physical needs, medical needs, mental health needs, and any other areas of growth and concern of clients, including necessary crisis intervention.
• Respond to emergencies as per emergency plans and protocol.
• Provide on-going monitoring and supervision of all clients at all times.
• Assure safe environment for residents, employees, and visitors. Consider the safety aspects of household conditions and activities. Report any safety concerns in writing to the Director of Clinical Services.
• Instruct clients in independent living skills such as obtaining employment, comparative shopping, use of public transportation, and other necessary skills.
• Provide and model proper upkeep and cleanliness of home, furnishings, and agency vehicles.
• Schedule medical appointments, including but not limited to annual physical exams and twice per year dental cleaning/exam, therapists, and ancillary services. Provide for employee supervision as appropriate.
• Seek out and review information related to these appointments and initiate proper follow up actions.
• Provide transportation to appointments/sessions (and in medical emergencies as appropriate).
• Care for clients that are homebound due to illness, school discipline, holidays, vacation, or breaks.
• Provide input into development of individual service plans, goals, and outcome measurements with guidance from the Director of Clinical Services and in accordance with the program.
• Support the social, educational, moral, emotional, spiritual, and cultural growth for all clients and act in the capacity of role model for these areas of development.
• Proactively compliment and encourage clients on doing something well in order to build self-confidence and respect. Describe appropriate skills and behaviors and practice same.