Community Support Specialist

The Community Support Specialist (CSS) is responsible for assessing service needs and linking the child and family with a range of support services including social, educational, vocational, recreational, and other related community services based on the child/youth's individualized needs and the needs of the family. The CSS works collaboratively with the family in creating a supportive environment addressing the basic needs of the child and family through referral, education, and skill development. The CSS is responsible for effective implementation on specific interventions based on the individual needs of the child/youth and family, making necessary adjustments based upon changing needs. ESSENTIAL DUTIES: Assists individuals and families to gain access to needed support services including, but not limited to education, medical, social, vocational, recreational, therapeutic, and other social services. Assess the strengths and service needs of the child/youth. Provides direct services in the home, school, and community settings. Provides and coordinates social services that are child focused and build on the family and community strengths. Implements service interventions based on the Individualized Service Plan. Provides transportation for families in a safe and responsible manner. Works in collaboration with Therapist to monitor progress. Develop and maintain a comprehensive, up to date, community support resource manual. Be flexible and work with the family based on the family's schedule, availability, and convenience. Provides crisis intervention services as needed. Attends weekly staff meetings. Assist in the aftercare planning to ensure referrals are made, appointments are made, and services are available/accessible. Other duties as assigned. KNOWLEDGE/EXPERIENCE: Bachelor's degree required in Social Work or a related field, and at least two (2) years' experiences working with children and families. Must be able to meet requirements to be certified through the Mississippi Department of Mental Health as a Community Support Specialist. SKILLS/ABILITIES: Excellent time management, organizational and stress management skills. Must be able to maintain confidentiality of program and Agency information. Must be able to follow written and verbal instructions and communicate effectively. LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS: Community Support Specialist certification from the Department of Mental Health is required. Current and valid driver's license. Proof of adequate vehicle liability insurance. AGENCY COMPLIANCE: Refer to and complies with the CCI Policy and Procedural Manuals in every part of their job. Attend individual supervision, staff meetings, staff trainings and other meetings required. Enter all client activity/services daily into the agency client database if applicable. Maintain all required documents in a current and orderly manner. Submit all reports accurately and in a timely manner per due dates adhere to all confidentiality policies, maintaining a high-level standard of confidentiality. Maintain a valid driver license, proof of required automobile insurance, and Child Protection requirements per policy. Represent the agency at events/functions as assigned. Always alert to the physical/mental condition of clients/children and report any suspicious situations to the person in authority. Must work within standards of the agency mission, philosophy, and policies /procedures. Reflects Catholic Charities' commitment to treating all person with dignity and respect. Performs other duties assigned and deemed necessary for the effective and efficient operation of the agency. PHYSICAL/MENTAL REOUIRFMENTS: Must be able to read, write, and speak English. Manual dexterity and motor skills required in completing documentation and other duties as required. Must be able to drive and have access to a vehicle day or night. Demonstrate maturity and flexibility in dealing with emotionally demanding and stressful situations. Must be emotionally stable, alert, and able to work alone; self-motivated. Must be physically and emotionally capable of performing the essential functions of the job. Must be able and willing to use passive physical restraints to ensure the safety of youth, staff, and self. Bending and lifting are required to perform regular duties. Must be able to manage personal and professional stress. Must continue to achieve a satisfactory rating on the annual performance evaluation. #J-18808-Ljbffr