Steps Kinship Navigator

Job Summary

The College of Social Work (CoSW) at the University of Kentucky (UK) invites applicants for several openings as STEPS Kinship Navigator . This position will work in concert with Kentucky Kinship Resource Center (KKRC) program staff, Centers & Labs program administrators, Department of Community Based Services (DCBS), and the Kinship Navigator Supervisor to provide consultation and guidance to caregivers caring for children in a kinship (relative or fictive kin) placement. This position will be housed in a DCBS Regional Office.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate a passion and commitment to kinship caregiving in Kentucky and a desire to support this population. Some travel to caregiver homes within the region may be required.

Essential Core Functions

• Objectively advise kinship caregivers of options regarding care of their relative/fictive kin child through the Kentucky Kinship Service Array, including the requirements, responsibilities, and expectations of each option.

• Provide connection to resources and programs appropriate to assist in supporting the kinship family. Complete any referrals needed to assistance programs.

• Review and complete all kinship-related forms with caregivers.

• Remain a point of contact for kinship caregivers who have questions or need future assistance.

• Work cooperatively with Department of Community Based Staff to ensure timely services are provided to kinship families.

• Connect kinship families with the Kentucky Kinship Resource Center programming for continued support, resource connection, and training.

Administrative Duties

• Complete all necessary state and university required paperwork based on caregivers decision.

• Complete data entry into online portals.

• Attend related trainings and meetings as required.

• Complete any required reporting or program evaluation as needed or indicated.

When submitting your application, please indicate in the space provided which region(s) you are interested in being considered for. Please note: We have closed applications for the Southern Bluegrass Service Region but are accepting applications for all other Service Regions within the state.

A map of the service regions is available for review here: https://www.chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dcbs/dsr/Documents/sraregionalmap.pdf

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

Public relations; Excellent written and oral communication skills; Working in partnership with various and diverse groups; Excellent interpersonal skills with various and diverse groups; Critical Thinking; Planning and Coordination; Attention to Detail

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? No Preferred Education/Experience Deadline to Apply 07/31/2024 University Community of Inclusion

The University of Kentucky is committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce by ensuring all our students, faculty, and staff work in an environment of openness and acceptance. We strive to foster a community where people of all backgrounds, identities, and perspectives can feel secure and welcome. We also value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we strongly encourage veterans, individuals with disabilities, women, and all minorities to consider our employment opportunities.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.