GAL/Staff Advocate

General Description:

Although similar, the role of the Guardian ad Litem (GAL)/Staff Advocate is distinct from that of a CASA (Court-Appointed Special Advocate) volunteer. Appointment of a CASA volunteer remains the preferred model of providing an advocate for abused and neglected children, and it is the goal that every child in a dependency proceeding be appointed a CASA volunteer. When that is not possible, however, appointment of a Staff GAL to serve as the child's advocate may occur.

The GAL/Staff Advocate will ensure that children to whom they are appointed receive sound, best-interest advocacy and early permanency planning. This is a full-time position.

Qualifications:

The Case Manager should have the following skills and experience:

• Bachelor's degree in a social service-related field, or equivalent work experience.
• The ability to work cooperatively with different types of personalities.
• Ability to communicate with DCS staff, school personnel, service providers, and children and families.
• Knowledge and understanding of issues and dynamics within families in crisis relating to child abuse and neglect given preference.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Basic knowledge of computers and Microsoft Office Software is necessary.
• Belief in every child's inherent right to a safe and permanent home in which they can thrive.
• Commitment to ECI CASA's goals and mission.

Accountability:

The Executive Director hires the Staff GAL. The GAL Supervisor will supervise and delegate duties to this position. The direct supervisor is responsible for his/her performance reviews.

Responsibilities:

• Complete the program's initial training for advocates.
• Learn to use Quest and Optima Case Tracking systems.
• Ensure case notes and other necessary information are kept up to date in Optima.
• Upon initial appointment to a case, interview the child, parents, relatives, foster parents, teachers, DCS case manager, and others involved with the situation.
• Review all records relevant to the case.
• Participate in the development of initial case plans when possible.
• Visit each child assigned in the placement setting at least once a month, unless an exception is approved.
• Visit each child's school and interview teachers/other staff regarding school performance at least quarterly.
• Discuss the day-to-day functioning of each child with parents/relatives/caregiver at least quarterly.
• Meet or communicate with service providers before reviewing hearings and permanency hearings.
• Attend Child and Family Team Meetings (CFTMs) on each case.
• Identify whether active and reasonable efforts to reunify the child and his/her birth family are being provided.
• Monitor implementation of progress with court-ordered services and plan.
• Bring unmet needs and/or other concerns to the attention of the DCS case manager.
• Prepare and submit Court Reports at a minimum of one week before the court hearing.
• Attend all review and permanent court hearings on each case.
• Participate in regular case staffing with the Supervisor and/or Executive Director.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case files in the office.
• Attend in-service training.
• Attend the Annual Indiana GAL/CASA Conference.
• Attend other conferences/seminars/meetings as requested by the Executive Director.
• Complete bi-weekly timesheets.
• Assist the Agency with special projects and events as needed at the request of the Executive Director.
• The Executive Director may assign other duties.