Envision Unlimited is a large non-profit agency with locations on the north and south sides of Chicago. We provide day program, residential, case management, career, and therapeutic services to adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities and/or mental illness in our continued commitment to provide persons with disabilities or other special needs. In addition, we provide foster care services for children in the Chicagoland area.  We emphasize quality services which promote choice, independence and community integration. Through the collaborative efforts of an interdisciplinary team, our members receive person-centered services aimed at improving functionality and practical application of social, financial, and emotional skills. We work to build partnerships with our community to enrich the lives of our members by creating lasting opportunities that will strengthen relationships for a lifetime.

We are looking for a Child Welfare Worker to join the team in our Foster Care program to work with families who were brought to the attention of DCFS because of an indicated finding from a child abuse/neglect investigation. 

Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Human Service field, plus two or more years of experience in child welfare. Must have reliable vehicle available for daily use and provide proof of a valid driver's license and vehicle insurance.  Must pass the Child Care Act, Foster Home Licensing , CERAP and DCFS Licensure exams within first six months of employment.

Purpose: Perform functions conducive to maintaining children in foster home placements, assist with assessing future homes for suitable placements, and provide supportive services to both parents and children in the home.

Essential Responsibilities:

1. Monitor child’s placement and services for safety, well-being and permanency.
2. Monitor and supervise foster home settings to ensure that appropriate care is being provided.
3. Maintain caseworker files and forms to ensure that case notes are up to date and information is noted in a professional manner.
4. Respond to telephone inquiries from parents and social service agency personnel on matters regarding clients.
5. Visit foster homes at least twice per month to monitor living conditions regarding safety, cleanliness, and appropriate care to clients.
6. Arrange visits between DCFS clients and parents and siblings. Provide/coordinate transportation for these visits.
7. Prepare for DCFS case reviews (ACR) for caseload clients.
8. 8. Refer and link foster and birth parents and clients to appropriate social services.
9. Participate in staffings and parent meetings as needed.
10. Conduct quarterly school visits and complete reports and comply with DCFS Rule 314.
11. Responsible for carrying and responding to agency cellular phone on a 24 hour basis.