Impactful Child Welfare Advocate & Case Manager

Lutheran Child and Family Services of Illinois; Vernon (IL); On-site; USD 52,416 - 57,416; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full-Time Employee Benefits

Job summary

Lutheran Child and Family Services of Illinois is seeking a Child Welfare Specialist to oversee assigned children and families, monitor well-being, progress toward reunification, and coordinate home visits with foster families. The role requires driving, community travel, and collaboration with foster and birth families.

The position demands strong case management, advocacy for children's rights, and effective communication with diverse partners.

Qualifications

• Ability to drive one’s own vehicle and transport children, youth, and adults as needed.
• In-depth knowledge of child welfare systems, regulations, and best practices.
• Strong case management skills, including assessments, service planning, and progress monitoring.
• Ability to advocate for children's rights and best interests within the child welfare system.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, for effective interaction with families, children, professionals, and agencies.
• Ability to provide crisis intervention and support to children and families facing challenging circumstances.

Responsibilities

• Oversee children and families to deliver child welfare services and support foster care progress.
• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams for program outcomes.
• Provide on-call services and may work evenings/weekends.
• Maintain accurate records in SACWIS and prepare written reports for court and collateral contacts.
• Ensure safety, permanency, and well-being metrics are met in line with agency goals.
• Travel to high-risk communities as needed.

Skills

Driving

Case management

Advocacy

Communication

Crisis intervention

Education

Bachelor's degree in related human service field

Child Welfare Employee License (CWEL) in IL

Job description

Lutheran Child and Family Services of Illinois is seeking a Child Welfare Specialist to oversee assigned children and families, monitor well-being, progress toward reunification, and coordinate home visits with foster families. The role requires driving, community travel, and collaboration with foster and birth families.

The position demands strong case management, advocacy for children's rights, and effective communication with diverse partners.