Casa de Esperanza
   P. O. Box 66581
   Houston, TX  77266-6581
   (713) 529-0639

Full-Time Staff Volunteers

Full-time staff volunteers are live-in childcare workers who commit a minimum of one year to Casa de Esperanza. They come from all parts of the United States. They may be recent college graduates, undergraduates taking a year off, Catholic sisters from various religious orders, professionals taking a break from the business world or retirees. All of these people have had very different life experiences, which they bring with them to Casa de Esperanza. With a variety of child-rearing styles among staff and differing needs of the children, flexibility is essential for a successful volunteer placement.

Qualifications

• At least 18 years of age, 21 years is preferred
• Minimum of a high school diploma or GED
• Good general health, with a high energy level, and able to lift 35-40 pounds
• Ability to establish and maintain positive relationships with others
• Willingness to make a one-year commitment
• Flexibility
• Patience

A criminal history and background check of each potential staff member or volunteer will be completed prior to employment or volunteer placement. No person with a criminal record will be employed or allowed to work with the children.

Responsibilities

• To feed, clothe, nurture and care for the children placed in your home
• To promote skills to develop healthy attachments
• To participate as a team member in implementing the children's Plan of Service and therapeutic regime
• To complete household duties including, but not limited to: cooking, cleaning, laundry and maintaining the house, lawn and vehicles
• To work one shift daily, with extra responsibilities as needed
• To transport and participate in medical and therapy appointments
• To support the children's primary attachment to biological parents
• To complete all necessary paperwork on a timely basis
• To communicate regularly with the children's caseworker regarding their welfare
• To complete 20 hours of ongoing training annually
• To follow the DISCIPLINE POLICY of Casa de Esperanza at all times

Corporal punishment is never allowed at Casa de Esperanza.

Meeting the emotional needs of the children in placement is an important aspect of the care that is given. Because all of the children come from dysfunctional backgrounds, their need for safety, stability and reassurance is immediate and often intense. The children require a great deal of time, energy and emotional resources on the part of their caregivers. Psychological services are available for the children, and staff members receive consultation and training in meeting the emotional needs of the children in placement.

Living Arrangements

Two staff volunteers live with the children as licensed foster parents. The remaining volunteers share nearby apartments. All staff members are within easy walking distance of Agency Foster Homes.

Compensation

• Housing
• Monthly stipend
• Health Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Dental insurance available at employee's expense
• Two weeks paid vacation per year

For more information about becoming
a full-time staff member:
call (713) 529-0639
or
E-mail us at: casa@casahope.org

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