State departments, nonprofits, and other organizations have numerous opportunities for those with an interest in families and youth. Sociology and anthropology offer unique perspectives and approaches to these people-orientated, outcome changing careers.
Family and Youth Services
Communication, Research, and Locale
Family and youth services rely on excellent verbal and written communication skills. Additionally, knowledge of the area you plan on relocating to or working within is a must - this allows you to better serve the needs of those within that community, and pinpoint particular challenges or red flags for families and their children.
Check out Idealist.org for a good listing of national level jobs related to youth and family services.
Family and Juvenile Support Services Certificate
Missouri State University has a new certificate program for those students who want to focus their careers on family and juvenile services! Review the family and juvenile support services certificate requirements.
Volunteering, Tailored Courses, and Interning
Programs like Big Brothers, Big Sisters and state departments for human or social services offer numerous opportunities to gain skills related to youth and family development outside of university hours. Additionally, they give you a glimpse into the day-to-day lives of those around you. Courses relating to child and family psychology, needs, and dynamics will provide you with insight to better serve and navigate problems that may arise in cases. For more information on volunteer and internship opportunities in Springfield, visit Internship Opportunities.
Alissa Day
Resource Development Advocate
FosterAdopt Connect
| Organization | Types of positions | Location |
|---|---|---|
|
Program Associate, Child Welfare Strategy Group (BA/BS & exp) |
Baltimore, MD |
|
| Missouri Department of Social Services |
Children's Service Worker I(BS/BA) Youth Specialist I-II (BS/BA) Family Support Eligibility Specialist |
Multiple Locations in MO |
|
Family Service Worker (BA/BS) |
Multiple Locations in AK |
|
| Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Ozarks | Match Support Specialist (BS/BA) | Springfield, MO |
| Big Brothers Big Sisters of South East Missouri |
Relationship Specialist (BS/BA) Enrollment Specialist (BS/BA) |
Multiple Locations in SE, MO |
| Coalition for the Homeless | Child Advocate, Crisis Intervention Program (BA/BS) | New York, NY |
| YWCA |
Family Advocate (BA/BS) Family Outreach Worker (BA/BS) |
St. Louis, MO |
| Family Facets | Intensive In-home Services Specialist | Multiple Locations in MO |
Position availability
Remember to verify that the position is still available! If it isn’t, don't stop there! Continue to check the organization and our website for new opportunities.