Home Study Social Worker

Who We Are

Paths for Families is an adoption and family well-being organization that partners with communities dedicated to the life-long work of building and sustaining families. For over 35 years, we've been here for expectant parents exploring adoption, birth parents, prospective and current adoptive families, children in need of adoption, people who were adopted, and professionals in the community. Our mission is to build and support healthy lifelong connections for every child and advocate for continuous improvement of systems that strengthen family well-being.

We practice IDEAS Principles (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Access, and Social Justice) and welcome all children, families, and team members regardless of gender identity, gender expression, age, race, religion, wealth, health, marital status, or sexual orientation. With IDEAS Principles as one of our core values, we believe in cultivating a healthy environment in which all employees feel supported while working to achieve our mission.

Overview

The Home Study Social Worker evaluates prospective adoptive families to ensure they can provide a safe, nurturing environment. They conduct interviews, home visits, background checks, and prepare detailed reports that guide adoption decisions. After placement, they supervise children in pre-adoptive homes to ensure safety and suitability. This position will serve families who reside in the Eastern/Tidewater region of Virginia.

Qualifications and Education Requirements

Master's degree in social work. Minimum five years of professional experience in child welfare, adoption and/or foster care is required. Knowledge of trauma, attachment, and child welfare is preferred.

Preferred Skills

Excellent interpersonal skills to interface with clients and staff. Exceptional report-writing skills. Compassionate, warm, engaging personality to support families in times of transition and crisis. Highly organized. Effective and accurate multi-tasking skills. Ability to think and work independently, prioritize, and problem-solve. Ability to work in a collaborative environment. Proficiency in case management systems and Microsoft 365.

Additional Notes

Each employee is required to complete (and maintain as necessary) a physical exam to include a TB screening, a criminal background check in identified jurisdictions, Child Protective Services Registries check in identified jurisdictions, and orientation training.

Role and Responsibilities

1. Conduct interviews: Meet with prospective adoptive parents to assess readiness, motivations, and family dynamics. Interview children and other adults in the home in person and facilitate phone conversations with children outside of the home and references, including school personnel, and other professionals.
2. Perform home visits: Evaluate the safety, stability, and suitability of the living environment. Complete the necessary inspections for jurisdictions.
3. Review documentation: Examine tasks and documentation required by state, federal, and agency regulations to ensure compliance.
4. Prepare home study reports: Write thorough, objective assessments including social histories, financial evaluations, and background checks, using the agency model. Provide documentation through the use of My Adoption Portal and Sharepoint.
5. Assess eligibility: Determine whether families meet state, federal, and agency requirements for adoption. Consult with agency staff regarding any clinical concerns that may prohibit a family from adopting.
6. Provide education and support: Guide families through the adoption process, offering resources and counseling.
7. Collaborate with agencies: Work with adoption agencies, courts, and other professionals to ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards.