If you’ve ever searched “social work” on an employment-finding site like CareerBuilder.com, you may have been surprised at just how many jobs pop up. Social work definitely has its fair share of ups and downs. While you might’ve heard that it can be a difficult job, it also produces many meaningful experiences with which few other careers can compete. In the Kentucky child welfare system, the need for social workers is great… and it’s not just in Kentucky. As more children enter the foster care system across the country, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 6% growth for child and family social workers through 2024. If you feel that a career in child welfare may be right for you or someone you know, here’s a brief snapshot of a few jobs that help children and families in need.

1. Behavioral Health Services Clinician

Behavioral health describes someone’s mental and emotional well-being. People who face challenges with their behavioral health may be experiencing depression, anxiety and substance abuse. A behavioral health services clinician plays an integral role in maintaining quality care for clients, whether in the clients home, at a location in the community, or in mental health hospitals. Some of their roles involve implementing evidence-based practices, modeling positive behavior examples, providing crisis intervention and more.

2. Family Preservation Specialist

Family preservation specialists give a family the skills needed to stay together and prevent separation. This usually occurs when a child is at-risk of being placed out-of-home. Additionally, they mostly work in the homes of the families they serve. This has statistically proven to be more effective than providing therapy in an office. Work weeks are typically flexible. This is meant to allow convenience for a family receiving treatment. Family preservation specialists also provide therapeutic services designed to be in line with a family’s lifestyle, circumstance and culture.

3. Case Manager

Though it’s a cliché, “never a dull moment” is a fitting description for a case manager. Case managers have a broad range of responsibilities. These include providing in-home services to children and families, ensuring a child’s safety, creating stable environments for families, facilitating court appearances, plus many more duties that could fill an encyclopedia. Above all, it’s a fast-paced, in-demand job that gives an opportunity to make a huge difference.

These are only a few of the many jobs that help children and families in need. Other opportunities that make a difference include accounting, education, nursing, food service, transportation – the list goes on. We’re actively hiring now. Visit the KVC Careers page to find a great fit for you!