The Community Integration Counselor (CIC) provides problem solving support, case management, outreach, consultation information, coordination/advocacy for services, and crisis support to youth ages 17-21 years old transitioning out of foster care to independent living. The goal of these services is to assist youth in obtaining the support, life skills, and services necessary to improve their level of independent functioning within their communities.

The counselor will assist the youth to more effectively manage and overcome the difficulties and stresses confronted by an individual with challenges in living in the community. They support and encourage youth to increase his/her ability to problem solve, be in control of life situations, and educate youth on how to manage daily living skills. The services are delivered in the youth’s residence and community-based settings, depending on the needs of the individual.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide increased socialization through the teaching of practical social, self-help, academic, and maintenance skills necessary for the youth to function competently independently and in social environments. Such skills would specifically include assertiveness, studying, accepting feedback, negotiating, grammar, spelling, doing laundry, personal hygiene, chore/task completion, comparative shopping, flowing instructions, delayed gratification, rational problem solving, etc.
• Supervises daily operations of home.
• Supervises and assists youth daily, ensuring safety and well-being.
• Identifies individual behavior problems and needs of youth.
• Dispense prescription medication as outlined in policy.
• Provide transportation to school, appointments and other locations as needed.
• Maintains the residence in a clean, neat, and orderly manner.
• Assist youth with developing life skills.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must be 21 years or older
• Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, counseling or related human/social service degree or;
• 2 years of experience working with foster youth, medically fragile clients, and/or mental health clients.
• Must demonstrate strong initiative and problem-solving skills, be organized, show attention to detail, communicate effectively, and have the ability to remain calm and focused under pressure.
• Flexibility, organization, problem solving skills
• Candidates must possess valid driver’s license and proof of auto insurance
• Must have no criminal history record convictions of misdemeanor or felony offenses from any state.
• Must be able to relate to and work well with youth.
• Must be able to remain calm and respond quickly in emergency and/or crisis situations.
• Must provide appropriate role model behavior for youth.