Social Worker (Zone 2) – LINKS Coordinator

The Links Coordinator plans and implements the agency's LINKS Program for youth, ages 13-21 that are currently in foster care or were in foster care as teenagers with a particular emphasis on services for youth who "age out" of foster care at age 18.  Duties include tracking quarterly and annual outcome measures; providing services to youth; training child welfare staff and assisting them with LINKS Services that are available to clients in their caseloads; assessing referrals to ensure compliance with the program's guidelines; planning and implementing activities and workshops; and identifying resources and recruiting providers to meet the needs of the LINKS population. Services in the LINKS program are aimed at independent living skills and self-sufficiency for these youth as they transition into adulthood. The program is designed to make connections for youth with the community, financial resources, educational and vocational training, mentors/caretakers that can assist with life skills training, and developing a personal support network, i.e. family, friends.  Youth must be willing to directly participate in designing their program to meet their individual needs.  In 2017, the state implemented the Foster Care 18-21 program which allows youth that aged out of foster care to receive ongoing foster care services, support, and resources, in addition to a monthly stipend if they are attending school, enrolled in a vocational program, employed or disabled.  New Hanover County currently has 39 youth enrolled in this program which are followed by the LINKS Coordinator.

The department of social services is a part of New Hanover County's consolidated human services agency, with roughly 500 dedicated professionals seeking to serve the citizens of our county through providing essential human services.  The department is a part of a dynamic, professional county organization with a clear vision as a vibrant, prosperous, diverse coastal community, committed to building a sustainable future for generations to come.  Ideal candidates for the department of social services have excellent customer service, organizational and computer skills, the ability to problem solve and make critical decisions and above all, an overwhelming desire to serve the citizens of our county. New Hanover County is dedicated to the recruitment and recognition of a talented and diverse workforce that is committed to public service. Our shared values of professionalism, innovation, integrity, stewardship and accountability guide the way we conduct ourselves and deliver services to our customers.  Supported by the work of our Office of Diversity and Equity, New Hanover County celebrates diversity in our employees’ backgrounds, beliefs, identities, and abilities, while supporting growth opportunities for all. Our talented team has a passion for providing care and services that effect change on the everyday lives of the citizens they encounter. The differences that unite us are a reflection of the community we serve.   If this sounds like an organization that models the values you uphold, we invite you to join our team at New Hanover County.