What are the responsibilities and job description for the Foster Parent Recruitment and Family Support Specialist position at Heart for Home?
Position Summary
Heart for Home is seeking a passionate and motivated individual to support the recruitment and engagement of foster, adoptive, and kinship families. This role combines community outreach, event coordination, and relationship-building to help expand and strengthen our network of supportive homes.
Working under the supervision of the Recruiting and Family Support Supervisor, this position ensures recruitment efforts align with organizational goals and state and contractual requirements.
This is a hybrid/remote position requiring reliable transportation and flexibility to work some evenings and weekends.
Primary Responsibilities
- Represent Heart for Home at community events, civic organizations, and outreach activities to recruit foster and respite families
- Plan, coordinate, and execute recruitment events and initiatives across designated counties
- Build and maintain relationships with community partners, including schools, faith-based organizations, and local agencies
- Collaborate with MDHHS and other stakeholders to support county and regional recruitment goals
- Follow up with prospective families and refer them to appropriate licensing or intake resources
- Assist in planning and facilitating support events for foster, adoptive, and kinship families
- Develop and implement recruitment strategies that reflect the diverse needs of children in care
- Track recruitment activities and maintain accurate records in required systems
- Participate in meetings, trainings, and community collaborations as needed
Coverage Area
Primary counties include:
Kent, Ionia, Montcalm, Mecosta, Osceola, Lake, and Newaygo
Occasional travel to Northeastern Michigan counties including:
Roscommon, Crawford, Otsego, Cheboygan, Presque Isle, Montmorency, Oscoda, Ogemaw, Iosco, Alcona, and Alpena
Qualifications
- High school diploma required; Bachelor’s degree in social work or related field preferred
- Experience in child welfare, foster care, adoption, or community outreach strongly preferred
- Strong interpersonal, public speaking, and relationship-building skills
- Ability to organize and manage events and multiple priorities
- Experience working with diverse populations and communities
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and basic computer systems
- Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment
- Reliable transportation, valid Michigan driver’s license, and auto insurance required
- Willingness to work flexible hours, including 1–2 evenings per week and 1–2 weekends per month
Compensation & Benefits
- Pay Range: $21.63 – $26.44 per hour (part-time)
- PTO: 2 weeks (80 hours) annually for employees working 20 hours/week
- Flexible, primarily remote work environment
- Paid mileage
- Phone stipend
- (No insurance benefits currently available)
Working Conditions
This role is primarily remote, with regular travel required for in-person events, meetings, and outreach. Candidates must have reliable internet access and a suitable home workspace. Some evening and weekend hours are required to support community engagement.
About Heart for Home
Heart for Home is a grassroots nonprofit based in Kalamazoo, Michigan, dedicated to supporting foster, adoptive, and kinship families. We provide compassionate respite care and resources to ensure children and families have the stability and support they need to thrive.
Our Mission
To connect children with safe, supportive respite homes and provide ongoing support to foster, adoptive, and kinship families through honest, responsive, and relationship-centered care.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $21.63 - $26.44 per hour
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Kalamazoo, MI 49048
Salary : $22 - $26