About This Role
This Adoption Support Specialist role focuses on providing crucial support to adoptive families, helping them navigate the challenges and joys of adoption. The specialist builds trusting relationships, connects families with essential resources, and contributes to strengthening futures for children and families within the community.
Responsibilities
- Build meaningful, trusting relationships with adoptive families
- Provide ongoing support, guidance, and encouragement to help families maintain stability and permanency
- Partner with families to develop individualized Family Support Plans that address their unique needs, goals, and challenges
- Help families navigate difficult situations by providing crisis support and connecting them with appropriate resources
- Coordinate community services, treatment resources, and educational supports to help children and families succeed
- Maintain regular communication with families to celebrate progress, identify concerns, and provide additional assistance when needed
- Collaborate with community partners, referral sources, and other professionals to ensure families have the support they deserve
- Maintain accurate documentation and track progress toward family goals
- Help identify and connect eligible adoptive families with valuable post-adoption services
- Participate in community outreach events, recruitment activities, and informational meetings
- Build relationships with adoption teams, community organizations, and local service providers
- Promote awareness of available resources and help expand support services for adoptive families
Requirements
- Bachelor's Degree, or higher, in social work or a related field
- Minimum of two years experience within the child welfare field
- Genuine passion for helping children and families
- Enjoys building relationships and making meaningful community connections
- Compassionate, dependable, organized, and able to work independently
- Can navigate challenging situations with patience, professionalism, and a solution-focused approach
- Strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills
- Motivated by making a positive difference in the lives of others
Nice to have:
- Experience in the area of adoption and/or foster care and special needs adoption and dynamics
About the Company
Four Oaks is committed to strengthening families, supporting children, and creating brighter futures throughout Iowa.
