Kids in Need of Defense (KIND)
New York, NY
About KIND
Kids in Need of Defense (KIND) is a global leader in the protection of unaccompanied and separated children who are forcibly displaced from their countries of origin. Launched in 2008, KIND champions a world in which every child’s rights and well-being are protected throughout their journey to safety.
Building on its extensive programming and successful model in the United States, KIND is expanding in the Americas and Europe to bring its experience to bear in working with unaccompanied and separated children. Our work focuses on addressing the legal and mental health needs of this population; building strong partnerships and engaging in training and capacity strengthening with governments, NGOs, and the private sector; and advocating for systemic and pragmatic reforms to advance the rights of unaccompanied and separated children.
Position Summary:
KIND seeks a Senior Social Services Coordinator to serve alongside the Social Services Management team. Senior Social Services Coordinators provide therapeutic support to high-risk cases, clinical consultations, and contribute to the design and implementation of trauma informed outreach and training within KIND and to external partners.
Essential Functions:
Supports the development of programmatic framework for Social Services including metrics, logic models, and narratives, for grant applications and reports.
Supports fundraising and development efforts, as well as grant reporting for the Social Services team.
Provides consultation on high risk and vulnerable cases across KIND offices.
Creates, updates, and implements ethical policies, procedures, and guidelines to be implemented across all field offices and compiled in an updated Social Services Handbook.
Creates, updates, and implements guidelines for the Social Services team in an interdisciplinary model pertaining to attorney-client and work-product privilege, federal and state confidentiality, and mandatory reporting laws.
Creates and implements guidelines on working with unaccompanied children working with pro bono volunteer attorneys with a focus on trauma informed care.
Creates guidelines and leads Social Services team on self-care, wellness, prevention of vicarious trauma and burnout, as well as appropriate professionalism in client relations.
Maintains working partnership with local graduate program and provide supervision to graduate level interns from social work/mental health programs.
Monitors and evaluates case activities, including client referrals, intakes, case strategy, and case closure through case rounds and regular check-ins of social service interns.
Consults and works regularly with KIND staff to integrate holistic, trauma-informed, and client-centered services that consider both legal strategy and social service needs.
Evaluates and provides expert consultation to the Social Services team and KIND attorneys on services referral, needs assessments, advocacy strategy, safety planning, and crisis management.
Directs client work, technical assistance, therapeutic supports, training, and outreach.
Works with small caseload of high-needs clients utilizing a range of therapeutic interventions with an emphasis on screening for trauma, establishing safety, building trust, increasing coping strategies, and providing in-depth support during legal proceedings.
Conducts needs assessment with KIND’s U.S./Mexico Special Programs team to design and implement quarterly trainings for staff and PBAs. Trainings will include such topics as Trauma Informed Interviewing Skills and Culturally Responsive Practices with Indigenous Populations.
Provides technical assistance and expertise to KIND staff and community partners with an emphasis on Trauma Informed interventions when working with UAC and refugee populations.
Works with community partners to coordinate services and collaborate in efforts; with emphasis on include language access, mental health supports and avoiding re-traumatization.
Assists with trainings and presentations.
Represent KIND at local coalitions, courts, and agencies.
Qualifications and Requirements:
Graduate degree in social work or related field or 6 years of work experience, combined with Undergraduate degree in social work or related field, in lieu of advanced degree.
Depending on location- at least 2 years of experience working with Tender Age children, foster care, at risk youth.
Minimum of 3 years of experience in social services or non-profit organizations; community organizing, or grassroots and partnership development experience preferred.
Advanced skills in Microsoft Suite including Outlook, Excel (including formula function), and Teams; competence with technology-related items including audio-video set-up and execution.
Demonstrated commitment to improving and/or understanding issues impacting immigrants in the U.S.; preferred experience working with trauma survivors.
Experience working with immigrant and refugee children and youth, LGBTQA communities.
Ability to work independently, anticipate needs, and take initiative in a high volume, fast-paced environment.
Experience supervising interns and volunteers; highly skilled at conducting outreach and managing external partnerships.
Experience in data entry and/or data management; experience in case and document database navigation such as ShareFile and Legal Server, including running and interpreting reports.
Ability to handle tech related responsibilities including management of digital calendars and video conferencing.
Strong record of intercultural responsiveness, sensitivity and awareness, and cross-cultural communication skills, responsive practices, and a racial equity lens.
Ability to effectively conduct trainings to diverse audiences in person and virtually.
Experience working with multidisciplinary or interdisciplinary teams.
Excellent organizational, time management skills, and attention to detail; ability to work collaboratively; excellent writing an oral communication skill.
Ability to thrive in a high-volume workload with fast-changing deadlines and priorities.
Advanced fluency in English and Spanish, spoken and written, required.
Ability to travel as assigned.
Ability to work within an office environment, have regular interaction via telephone, teleconference, IM and email with KIND’s team and have in-person meetings with clients.
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suites (such as Teams, Excel, etc.).
Ability to work collaboratively and multi-task in our KIND environment, managing numerous priorities and emerging opportunities.
Excellent organizational skills with ability to work on multiple projects in a deadline-oriented environment. Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate as appropriate.
Ability to work effectively with people of diverse backgrounds, lived experiences, and communication styles.
Committed to prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion as well as embracing transparency and authenticity in daily work life.
Be disciplined and nimble to ensure delivery on our core mission of access to justice and protection of children’s wellbeing and rights.
Salary Range: $61,360 - $76,700 a year
Our Benefits
Medical, dental, and vision insurance with KIND paying 100% of the employee only portion of the premium for one of the two medical plan options, dental, and vision.
Pre-tax flexible spending account (FSA) for both medical and dependent care.
Pre-tax transit and parking spending account.
Employer-paid life insurance and accidental death and dismemberment insurance.
Employer-paid short and long-term disability insurance.
For a complete list of benefits, please click here .
Our Focus on Wellness
KIND recognizes that our ability to help our clients starts with helping our team members. KIND has prioritized wellness for employees through Mindfulness and Wellness Trainings, Wellness Platforms, Employee Assistance and Resilience Programs, Time Away and Office Wellness Activities.
For more information regarding our Wellness initiatives please visit this link .
KIND requires all staff be COVID vaccinated with the exception of those who have medical or religious beliefs exemptions.
About KIND
Kids in Need of Defense (KIND) is a global leader in the protection of unaccompanied and separated children who are forcibly displaced from their countries of origin. Launched in 2008, KIND champions a world in which every child’s rights and well-being are protected throughout their journey to safety.
Building on its extensive programming and successful model in the United States, KIND is expanding in the Americas and Europe to bring its experience to bear in working with unaccompanied and separated children. Our work focuses on addressing the legal and mental health needs of this population; building strong partnerships and engaging in training and capacity strengthening with governments, NGOs, and the private sector; and advocating for systemic and pragmatic reforms to advance the rights of unaccompanied and separated children.
Position Summary:
KIND seeks a Senior Social Services Coordinator to serve alongside the Social Services Management team. Senior Social Services Coordinators provide therapeutic support to high-risk cases, clinical consultations, and contribute to the design and implementation of trauma informed outreach and training within KIND and to external partners.
Essential Functions:
Supports the development of programmatic framework for Social Services including metrics, logic models, and narratives, for grant applications and reports.
Supports fundraising and development efforts, as well as grant reporting for the Social Services team.
Provides consultation on high risk and vulnerable cases across KIND offices.
Creates, updates, and implements ethical policies, procedures, and guidelines to be implemented across all field offices and compiled in an updated Social Services Handbook.
Creates, updates, and implements guidelines for the Social Services team in an interdisciplinary model pertaining to attorney-client and work-product privilege, federal and state confidentiality, and mandatory reporting laws.
Creates and implements guidelines on working with unaccompanied children working with pro bono volunteer attorneys with a focus on trauma informed care.
Creates guidelines and leads Social Services team on self-care, wellness, prevention of vicarious trauma and burnout, as well as appropriate professionalism in client relations.
Maintains working partnership with local graduate program and provide supervision to graduate level interns from social work/mental health programs.
Monitors and evaluates case activities, including client referrals, intakes, case strategy, and case closure through case rounds and regular check-ins of social service interns.
Consults and works regularly with KIND staff to integrate holistic, trauma-informed, and client-centered services that consider both legal strategy and social service needs.
Evaluates and provides expert consultation to the Social Services team and KIND attorneys on services referral, needs assessments, advocacy strategy, safety planning, and crisis management.
Directs client work, technical assistance, therapeutic supports, training, and outreach.
Works with small caseload of high-needs clients utilizing a range of therapeutic interventions with an emphasis on screening for trauma, establishing safety, building trust, increasing coping strategies, and providing in-depth support during legal proceedings.
Conducts needs assessment with KIND’s U.S./Mexico Special Programs team to design and implement quarterly trainings for staff and PBAs. Trainings will include such topics as Trauma Informed Interviewing Skills and Culturally Responsive Practices with Indigenous Populations.
Provides technical assistance and expertise to KIND staff and community partners with an emphasis on Trauma Informed interventions when working with UAC and refugee populations.
Works with community partners to coordinate services and collaborate in efforts; with emphasis on include language access, mental health supports and avoiding re-traumatization.
Assists with trainings and presentations.
Represent KIND at local coalitions, courts, and agencies.
Qualifications and Requirements:
Graduate degree in social work or related field or 6 years of work experience, combined with Undergraduate degree in social work or related field, in lieu of advanced degree.
Depending on location- at least 2 years of experience working with Tender Age children, foster care, at risk youth.
Minimum of 3 years of experience in social services or non-profit organizations; community organizing, or grassroots and partnership development experience preferred.
Advanced skills in Microsoft Suite including Outlook, Excel (including formula function), and Teams; competence with technology-related items including audio-video set-up and execution.
Demonstrated commitment to improving and/or understanding issues impacting immigrants in the U.S.; preferred experience working with trauma survivors.
Experience working with immigrant and refugee children and youth, LGBTQA communities.
Ability to work independently, anticipate needs, and take initiative in a high volume, fast-paced environment.
Experience supervising interns and volunteers; highly skilled at conducting outreach and managing external partnerships.
Experience in data entry and/or data management; experience in case and document database navigation such as ShareFile and Legal Server, including running and interpreting reports.
Ability to handle tech related responsibilities including management of digital calendars and video conferencing.
Strong record of intercultural responsiveness, sensitivity and awareness, and cross-cultural communication skills, responsive practices, and a racial equity lens.
Ability to effectively conduct trainings to diverse audiences in person and virtually.
Experience working with multidisciplinary or interdisciplinary teams.
Excellent organizational, time management skills, and attention to detail; ability to work collaboratively; excellent writing an oral communication skill.
Ability to thrive in a high-volume workload with fast-changing deadlines and priorities.
Advanced fluency in English and Spanish, spoken and written, required.
Ability to travel as assigned.
Ability to work within an office environment, have regular interaction via telephone, teleconference, IM and email with KIND’s team and have in-person meetings with clients.
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suites (such as Teams, Excel, etc.).
Ability to work collaboratively and multi-task in our KIND environment, managing numerous priorities and emerging opportunities.
Excellent organizational skills with ability to work on multiple projects in a deadline-oriented environment. Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate as appropriate.
Ability to work effectively with people of diverse backgrounds, lived experiences, and communication styles.
Committed to prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion as well as embracing transparency and authenticity in daily work life.
Be disciplined and nimble to ensure delivery on our core mission of access to justice and protection of children’s wellbeing and rights.
Salary Range: $61,360 - $76,700 a year
Our Benefits
Medical, dental, and vision insurance with KIND paying 100% of the employee only portion of the premium for one of the two medical plan options, dental, and vision.
Pre-tax flexible spending account (FSA) for both medical and dependent care.
Pre-tax transit and parking spending account.
Employer-paid life insurance and accidental death and dismemberment insurance.
Employer-paid short and long-term disability insurance.
For a complete list of benefits, please click here .
Our Focus on Wellness
KIND recognizes that our ability to help our clients starts with helping our team members. KIND has prioritized wellness for employees through Mindfulness and Wellness Trainings, Wellness Platforms, Employee Assistance and Resilience Programs, Time Away and Office Wellness Activities.
For more information regarding our Wellness initiatives please visit this link .
KIND requires all staff be COVID vaccinated with the exception of those who have medical or religious beliefs exemptions.
Rocky Mountain Immigrant Advocacy Network
Westminster, Colorado
Rocky Mountain Immigrant Advocacy Network (RMIAN) provides free immigration legal services and social services to individuals in immigration detention and to children and their families throughout Colorado. RMIAN believes that justice for immigrants means justice for all.
Through the Social Service Project, RMIAN is one of few immigration legal services organizations in the country to offer integrated social service support. Founded and staffed by masters-level social workers, the Social Service Project assists particularly vulnerable detained adult immigrants, including people determined by the immigration court to be mentally incompetent to represent themselves; unaccompanied immigrant youth recently released from the custody of the Office of Refugee and Resettlement; and other youth and families who would benefit from expert guidance in navigating challenging new social structures.
RMIAN’s social workers provide wrap-around support, including help dealing with the stress of detention, healthcare advocacy, support with aspects of legal case preparation, and planning for needed services upon clients’ release from detention. For non-detained youth and their family members, social workers provide therapeutic support, connection to mental health treatment, medical care, public benefits, and other assistance, as well as ongoing support throughout clients’ legal cases.
In addition to direct client services, RMIAN’s social workers collaborate with local and national partners to educate legal and social service providers, and advocate for positive systemic change for immigrant members of our community.
Position Overview
We are seeking the right person to lead the next chapter of the Social Service Project’s vital services during a period of transition , and to manage and support a strong team of three masters-level social workers. The Director of Social Work will direct program strategy; supervise members of the team; oversee day-to-day operations, including grant management, evaluation and reporting; liaise with community partners and funders; carry a very limited caseload; and participate on RMIAN’s Leadership Team to carry out the organization’s mission and strategic priorities.
Ideal Candidate Profile
RMIAN is seeking candidates who possess a majority of the following qualities and experiences:
Interdisciplinary social work experience: To be successful within a primarily legal services setting, the ideal candidate loves working across disciplines, and has direct social work experience with diverse populations, such as people experiencing stress and instability because of housing instability, immigration, mental health and medical needs, and criminal legal and family policing systems. A master’s degree in social work from an accredited program and a Colorado LSW (or commitment to obtain one) are required for this position; a Colorado LCSW and the ability to provide clinical supervision to other social workers are an additional bonus.
A love of managing staff: This person has several years of management experience and truly enjoys helping their team members grow and develop. They have demonstrated skills with self-awareness and personal and professional growth, direct communication and feedback, empathy and active listening, coaching staff to solve problems, and expertise in time and case management. Additionally, this is someone who has knowledge of the specific well-being needs of the social work profession, including addressing vicarious trauma and burnout.
Education and collaboration: This is someone who understands how to educate and train others on the value and process of social work, ideally including previous experience collaborating with attorneys. This person is both flexible and direct, and naturally gains the trust of others. They know how to engage people’s strengths toward a goal and to give clear action steps and coaching so they can collaborate effectively.
Passion for social justice and immigration issues in the U.S.: Ideally, this person possesses some work or lived experience in the immigration space, but at a minimum, has been paying attention to the issues over the last few years, and is fired up to create change that is responsive to the needs of our clients, and is eager to learn about the legal processes and structures that impact individual case outcomes.
Strategic thinking and thought leadership: The ideal candidate has some experience zooming out from day-to-day case management to see patterns and systems issues, and is creative in imagining ways to address structural problems, especially in collaboration with partners. This is someone who knows how to foster relationships with allies across the region to accomplish more together.
Systems-thinker about client case management: Through their previous social work experience, this person has demonstrated a hunger to be organized, efficient, and effective in juggling multiple clients’ cases and demands, and has developed or strengthened systems that balance details and the big picture. This person can handle multiple tasks running in parallel and can triage to help the team meet time-sensitive deadlines while working toward larger goals.
Demonstrated commitment to antiracism, and a track record of promoting equity, justice, and inclusion in previous organizations, both internally and externally. This person has shown cultural humility working with people with diverse identities and experiences, including experiences with legal and other systems of oppression.
English and Spanish fluency are required , both oral and written.
Position Responsibilities
The Director of Social Work is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Social Service Project, providing leadership and strategic guidance. To stay connected to the work, they maintain a very limited caseload of clients.
Program Leadership —Serve as a leader to the team, including facilitating team meetings, nurturing a culture of inclusivity and support, and identifying opportunities for professional development. Manage program contracts in collaboration with other organizational leaders. Oversee reporting requirements. Serve as a communicator and bridge between the program and the larger organization (particularly the Detention Program and Children’s Program). Identify and support related funding efforts. Guide and strengthen systems-building. Ensure compliance with all relevant policies and procedures. Guide social work-legal staff relationships alongside legal program directors.
Supervision of Staff —directly supervise three social workers (identifying support needs, training, reviewing work product, providing guidance on case management, and conducting annual reviews), and provide mentorship and case and clinical supervision. Provide effective oversight of social work practice and program obligations.
Partnerships and External Relations —serve as a public-facing representative on behalf of RMIAN’s Social Service Project, building and nurturing relationships with community partners, funders, and community collaborators. Support advocacy efforts as needed.
Client Case Management and Oversight —carry a very limited caseload, with a primary focus on being available to provide support to social workers and collaborating with attorneys. In collaboration with other members of the Social Services Project, gather, synthesize, and report program data in compliance with rigorous grant evaluation requirements. As needed, support clients’ legal cases by drafting personal declarations, writing post-release behavioral health plans, arranging forensic health evaluations, communicating with family and other support networks, and attending court hearings.
Organizational Contributions —Participate in RMIAN’s leadership team and other committees, as needed. Work within RMIAN’s mission, values and organizational commitment to justice, equity, diversity and inclusion. Serve as a liaison between Social Service Project team members and leadership team.
Additional Requirements
Master’s degree in Social Work from an accredited program
Colorado Licensed Social Worker (LSW) or commitment to apply for the Colorado LSW within the first year of employment at RMIAN.
Ability to pass required background checks
Access to reliable personal transportation
Proof of vaccination against COVID-19, or proof of eligibility for exception
Location
This position is based out of RMIAN’s office located in Westminster, Colorado. RMIAN’s operations are currently operating on a hybrid remote/in-person model requiring at least two days a week of work in RMIAN’s office or other work-related locations.
Compensation & Benefits
This is a full-time, salaried, exempt position. Salary is commensurate with experience; the range is between $80,000 and $95,000. RMIAN offers a phenomenal benefits package, which includes:
Generous paid time off with 15 days of vacation in the first year of employment and an additional 2 days for each additional year of employment, 10 sick days, 11 Federal holidays, plus, an annual week-long end of year office closure;
Excellent health insurance (100% covered by RMIAN);
Dental and vision insurance (90% covered by RMIAN);
Life insurance, professional liability insurance, and short-term disability insurance (100% covered by RMIAN);
Eligibility to participate in RMIAN’s Simple IRA retirement plan (RMIAN matches 4%);
Eligibility to participate in RMIAN’s flexible spending plan; and
Eight-week sabbatical after five years of employment.
If this position calls to you, please submit your resume and a brief note about what interests you in the position to hr@rmian.org .
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled; applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
RMIAN is an equal opportunity employer and recognizes the importance of diversity in the workplace. We encourage applications from people of color, immigrants, women, members of the LGBTQ community, and other underrepresented and marginalized groups. RMIAN does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, disability, marital status or veteran status. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment free from discrimination.
Rocky Mountain Immigrant Advocacy Network (RMIAN) provides free immigration legal services and social services to individuals in immigration detention and to children and their families throughout Colorado. RMIAN believes that justice for immigrants means justice for all.
Through the Social Service Project, RMIAN is one of few immigration legal services organizations in the country to offer integrated social service support. Founded and staffed by masters-level social workers, the Social Service Project assists particularly vulnerable detained adult immigrants, including people determined by the immigration court to be mentally incompetent to represent themselves; unaccompanied immigrant youth recently released from the custody of the Office of Refugee and Resettlement; and other youth and families who would benefit from expert guidance in navigating challenging new social structures.
RMIAN’s social workers provide wrap-around support, including help dealing with the stress of detention, healthcare advocacy, support with aspects of legal case preparation, and planning for needed services upon clients’ release from detention. For non-detained youth and their family members, social workers provide therapeutic support, connection to mental health treatment, medical care, public benefits, and other assistance, as well as ongoing support throughout clients’ legal cases.
In addition to direct client services, RMIAN’s social workers collaborate with local and national partners to educate legal and social service providers, and advocate for positive systemic change for immigrant members of our community.
Position Overview
We are seeking the right person to lead the next chapter of the Social Service Project’s vital services during a period of transition , and to manage and support a strong team of three masters-level social workers. The Director of Social Work will direct program strategy; supervise members of the team; oversee day-to-day operations, including grant management, evaluation and reporting; liaise with community partners and funders; carry a very limited caseload; and participate on RMIAN’s Leadership Team to carry out the organization’s mission and strategic priorities.
Ideal Candidate Profile
RMIAN is seeking candidates who possess a majority of the following qualities and experiences:
Interdisciplinary social work experience: To be successful within a primarily legal services setting, the ideal candidate loves working across disciplines, and has direct social work experience with diverse populations, such as people experiencing stress and instability because of housing instability, immigration, mental health and medical needs, and criminal legal and family policing systems. A master’s degree in social work from an accredited program and a Colorado LSW (or commitment to obtain one) are required for this position; a Colorado LCSW and the ability to provide clinical supervision to other social workers are an additional bonus.
A love of managing staff: This person has several years of management experience and truly enjoys helping their team members grow and develop. They have demonstrated skills with self-awareness and personal and professional growth, direct communication and feedback, empathy and active listening, coaching staff to solve problems, and expertise in time and case management. Additionally, this is someone who has knowledge of the specific well-being needs of the social work profession, including addressing vicarious trauma and burnout.
Education and collaboration: This is someone who understands how to educate and train others on the value and process of social work, ideally including previous experience collaborating with attorneys. This person is both flexible and direct, and naturally gains the trust of others. They know how to engage people’s strengths toward a goal and to give clear action steps and coaching so they can collaborate effectively.
Passion for social justice and immigration issues in the U.S.: Ideally, this person possesses some work or lived experience in the immigration space, but at a minimum, has been paying attention to the issues over the last few years, and is fired up to create change that is responsive to the needs of our clients, and is eager to learn about the legal processes and structures that impact individual case outcomes.
Strategic thinking and thought leadership: The ideal candidate has some experience zooming out from day-to-day case management to see patterns and systems issues, and is creative in imagining ways to address structural problems, especially in collaboration with partners. This is someone who knows how to foster relationships with allies across the region to accomplish more together.
Systems-thinker about client case management: Through their previous social work experience, this person has demonstrated a hunger to be organized, efficient, and effective in juggling multiple clients’ cases and demands, and has developed or strengthened systems that balance details and the big picture. This person can handle multiple tasks running in parallel and can triage to help the team meet time-sensitive deadlines while working toward larger goals.
Demonstrated commitment to antiracism, and a track record of promoting equity, justice, and inclusion in previous organizations, both internally and externally. This person has shown cultural humility working with people with diverse identities and experiences, including experiences with legal and other systems of oppression.
English and Spanish fluency are required , both oral and written.
Position Responsibilities
The Director of Social Work is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Social Service Project, providing leadership and strategic guidance. To stay connected to the work, they maintain a very limited caseload of clients.
Program Leadership —Serve as a leader to the team, including facilitating team meetings, nurturing a culture of inclusivity and support, and identifying opportunities for professional development. Manage program contracts in collaboration with other organizational leaders. Oversee reporting requirements. Serve as a communicator and bridge between the program and the larger organization (particularly the Detention Program and Children’s Program). Identify and support related funding efforts. Guide and strengthen systems-building. Ensure compliance with all relevant policies and procedures. Guide social work-legal staff relationships alongside legal program directors.
Supervision of Staff —directly supervise three social workers (identifying support needs, training, reviewing work product, providing guidance on case management, and conducting annual reviews), and provide mentorship and case and clinical supervision. Provide effective oversight of social work practice and program obligations.
Partnerships and External Relations —serve as a public-facing representative on behalf of RMIAN’s Social Service Project, building and nurturing relationships with community partners, funders, and community collaborators. Support advocacy efforts as needed.
Client Case Management and Oversight —carry a very limited caseload, with a primary focus on being available to provide support to social workers and collaborating with attorneys. In collaboration with other members of the Social Services Project, gather, synthesize, and report program data in compliance with rigorous grant evaluation requirements. As needed, support clients’ legal cases by drafting personal declarations, writing post-release behavioral health plans, arranging forensic health evaluations, communicating with family and other support networks, and attending court hearings.
Organizational Contributions —Participate in RMIAN’s leadership team and other committees, as needed. Work within RMIAN’s mission, values and organizational commitment to justice, equity, diversity and inclusion. Serve as a liaison between Social Service Project team members and leadership team.
Additional Requirements
Master’s degree in Social Work from an accredited program
Colorado Licensed Social Worker (LSW) or commitment to apply for the Colorado LSW within the first year of employment at RMIAN.
Ability to pass required background checks
Access to reliable personal transportation
Proof of vaccination against COVID-19, or proof of eligibility for exception
Location
This position is based out of RMIAN’s office located in Westminster, Colorado. RMIAN’s operations are currently operating on a hybrid remote/in-person model requiring at least two days a week of work in RMIAN’s office or other work-related locations.
Compensation & Benefits
This is a full-time, salaried, exempt position. Salary is commensurate with experience; the range is between $80,000 and $95,000. RMIAN offers a phenomenal benefits package, which includes:
Generous paid time off with 15 days of vacation in the first year of employment and an additional 2 days for each additional year of employment, 10 sick days, 11 Federal holidays, plus, an annual week-long end of year office closure;
Excellent health insurance (100% covered by RMIAN);
Dental and vision insurance (90% covered by RMIAN);
Life insurance, professional liability insurance, and short-term disability insurance (100% covered by RMIAN);
Eligibility to participate in RMIAN’s Simple IRA retirement plan (RMIAN matches 4%);
Eligibility to participate in RMIAN’s flexible spending plan; and
Eight-week sabbatical after five years of employment.
If this position calls to you, please submit your resume and a brief note about what interests you in the position to hr@rmian.org .
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled; applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
RMIAN is an equal opportunity employer and recognizes the importance of diversity in the workplace. We encourage applications from people of color, immigrants, women, members of the LGBTQ community, and other underrepresented and marginalized groups. RMIAN does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, disability, marital status or veteran status. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment free from discrimination.
Kids in Need of Defense (KIND)
Fresno, CA
About KIND:
Kids in Need of Defense (KIND) is a global leader in the protection of unaccompanied refugee and migrant children. Launched in 2008, KIND champions a world in which every child’s rights and well-being are protected throughout their journey to safety. KIND has accepted over 23,000 referrals of children seeking legal representation in their immigration proceedings. KIND has welcomed more than 41,000 attendees to trainings since its founding, cultivating partnerships with over 670 law firms, corporate legal departments, law schools, and bar associations across the country.
KIND’s social services program ensures that migrant and refugee children – who have often endured trauma – receive counseling, educational support, medical care, and other comprehensive services.
To address the root causes of child migration from Central America, and strengthen the protection of unaccompanied children, KIND advocates for policy changes and educates lawmakers, the media, and the broader public on the conditions that drive these children to flee their home countries. KIND supports children returning to their home countries by connecting them to essential support services and sponsors gender-based violence prevention programs in Central America to protect children in countries of origin and transit.
KIND is also building upon its expertise in the protection of unaccompanied children to encourage the development of pro bono initiatives across Europe in partnership with European NGOs.
Position Summary:
KIND seeks a Staff Attorney to provide expert legal services to unaccompanied children facing removal proceedings through zealous direct representation as well as pro bono facilitation, including robust consultation, training, and technical assistance to pro bono attorneys who have accepted KIND cases. As needed, supervise Senior Paralegals, Paralegals, interns, and/or other non-attorney staff. The Staff Attorney will report to the Supervising Attorney.
Essential Functions:
Oversee paralegals ensuring the provision of high-quality intakes and legal orientations for unaccompanied children residing in immigration detention facilities. Review legal screenings conducted by paralegals to determine children's preliminary eligibility for immigration relief.
Make "friend-of-the-court" appearances on the juvenile detained docket in Immigration Court on behalf of detained children. Enter representation in certain cases.
Communicate regularly with shelter staff regarding the status of children in detention; advocate for alternative placements on behalf of children who are in danger of "aging out" of ORR care or seeking placement in long-term foster care facilities.
As needed, represent a smaller docket of children in their applications for relief who do not have reunification options and must remain longer in detention.
Once children are released locally from detention, provide zealous direct legal representation to children in their removal proceedings and in their applications for immigration relief. In certain cases, depending on experience, caseload, and organizational priorities, place those cases with pro bono attorneys and provide robust consultation and technical assistance to pro bono attorneys. The percentage of mentoring and direct representation caseloads will be determined by management in the Legal Programs component.
Perform ordinary functions of legal counsel providing direct representation, including legal research and formulating the legal strategy for the case; conducting client interviews; appearing before immigration and/or state court or agencies, and drafting and filing court pleadings and applications for benefits.
Place cases with pro bono attorneys and build relationships between KIND and the pro bono community.
In coordination with KIND’s Training and Technical Assistance Team and the local field office Senior Attorney/s, as needed, help develop pro bono training resources and local training curriculum, including sample filings and guidance packets. With supervision, present training to pro bono attorneys and community groups.
Ensure entry of timely, accurate, and detailed case data into KIND’s case management systems.
Contribute to overall office functioning, including joining field office and KIND-wide calls and meetings, participating in the field office and KIND-wide committees, and assisting with office events.
As needed, supervise Senior Paralegals, Paralegals, interns, and/or other non-legal staff including onboarding, skills training, daily support and coaching, review and quality assurance of filings, regular check-ins, and performance evaluations, and provision of consistent and effective supervision and oversight.
Qualifications and Requirements:
J.D. and admitted to the local state bar (If not admitted to local state bar, must sit for bar exam or start waiver to be admitted within 6 months and be able to be admitted within one year of employment).
Fluent in English and Spanish.
Minimum 1-year experience practicing immigration law, which should include representation of clients in humanitarian immigration claims such as asylum, Special Immigrant Juvenile Status, U visas, and T visas.
Minimum 1-year experience working with children, preferably immigrant and refugee children, or experience working with vulnerable populations, survivors of abuse, human trafficking, or other trauma.
Strong record of cultural competence and cross-cultural communication skills.
Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and persuasively both orally and in writing.
Ability to take initiative, multi-task, and work independently.
Experience working with law firm attorneys and/or other legal volunteers preferred.
Ability to work within an office environment and have regular interaction via telephone, videoconference, IM, and email with KIND's team.
Regular/weekly travel to local immigration detention facility required.
Ability to work effectively with people of diverse backgrounds, lived experiences, and communication styles.
Committed to prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion as well as embracing transparency and authenticity in daily work life.
Be disciplined and nimble to ensure delivery on our core mission of access to justice and protection of children’s wellbeing and rights.
Showing the ability to multi-task and work with a sense of urgency in a dynamic, fast paced environment.
Committed to practicing and supporting wellbeing and a work-home life balance.
Experience working and communicating in a remote environment.
Salary Range: $75,000 - $84,300 a year
Benefits: Discover the perks of working for KIND
KIND requires all staff be COVID vaccinated with the exception of those who have medical or religious beliefs exemptions.
About KIND:
Kids in Need of Defense (KIND) is a global leader in the protection of unaccompanied refugee and migrant children. Launched in 2008, KIND champions a world in which every child’s rights and well-being are protected throughout their journey to safety. KIND has accepted over 23,000 referrals of children seeking legal representation in their immigration proceedings. KIND has welcomed more than 41,000 attendees to trainings since its founding, cultivating partnerships with over 670 law firms, corporate legal departments, law schools, and bar associations across the country.
KIND’s social services program ensures that migrant and refugee children – who have often endured trauma – receive counseling, educational support, medical care, and other comprehensive services.
To address the root causes of child migration from Central America, and strengthen the protection of unaccompanied children, KIND advocates for policy changes and educates lawmakers, the media, and the broader public on the conditions that drive these children to flee their home countries. KIND supports children returning to their home countries by connecting them to essential support services and sponsors gender-based violence prevention programs in Central America to protect children in countries of origin and transit.
KIND is also building upon its expertise in the protection of unaccompanied children to encourage the development of pro bono initiatives across Europe in partnership with European NGOs.
Position Summary:
KIND seeks a Staff Attorney to provide expert legal services to unaccompanied children facing removal proceedings through zealous direct representation as well as pro bono facilitation, including robust consultation, training, and technical assistance to pro bono attorneys who have accepted KIND cases. As needed, supervise Senior Paralegals, Paralegals, interns, and/or other non-attorney staff. The Staff Attorney will report to the Supervising Attorney.
Essential Functions:
Oversee paralegals ensuring the provision of high-quality intakes and legal orientations for unaccompanied children residing in immigration detention facilities. Review legal screenings conducted by paralegals to determine children's preliminary eligibility for immigration relief.
Make "friend-of-the-court" appearances on the juvenile detained docket in Immigration Court on behalf of detained children. Enter representation in certain cases.
Communicate regularly with shelter staff regarding the status of children in detention; advocate for alternative placements on behalf of children who are in danger of "aging out" of ORR care or seeking placement in long-term foster care facilities.
As needed, represent a smaller docket of children in their applications for relief who do not have reunification options and must remain longer in detention.
Once children are released locally from detention, provide zealous direct legal representation to children in their removal proceedings and in their applications for immigration relief. In certain cases, depending on experience, caseload, and organizational priorities, place those cases with pro bono attorneys and provide robust consultation and technical assistance to pro bono attorneys. The percentage of mentoring and direct representation caseloads will be determined by management in the Legal Programs component.
Perform ordinary functions of legal counsel providing direct representation, including legal research and formulating the legal strategy for the case; conducting client interviews; appearing before immigration and/or state court or agencies, and drafting and filing court pleadings and applications for benefits.
Place cases with pro bono attorneys and build relationships between KIND and the pro bono community.
In coordination with KIND’s Training and Technical Assistance Team and the local field office Senior Attorney/s, as needed, help develop pro bono training resources and local training curriculum, including sample filings and guidance packets. With supervision, present training to pro bono attorneys and community groups.
Ensure entry of timely, accurate, and detailed case data into KIND’s case management systems.
Contribute to overall office functioning, including joining field office and KIND-wide calls and meetings, participating in the field office and KIND-wide committees, and assisting with office events.
As needed, supervise Senior Paralegals, Paralegals, interns, and/or other non-legal staff including onboarding, skills training, daily support and coaching, review and quality assurance of filings, regular check-ins, and performance evaluations, and provision of consistent and effective supervision and oversight.
Qualifications and Requirements:
J.D. and admitted to the local state bar (If not admitted to local state bar, must sit for bar exam or start waiver to be admitted within 6 months and be able to be admitted within one year of employment).
Fluent in English and Spanish.
Minimum 1-year experience practicing immigration law, which should include representation of clients in humanitarian immigration claims such as asylum, Special Immigrant Juvenile Status, U visas, and T visas.
Minimum 1-year experience working with children, preferably immigrant and refugee children, or experience working with vulnerable populations, survivors of abuse, human trafficking, or other trauma.
Strong record of cultural competence and cross-cultural communication skills.
Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and persuasively both orally and in writing.
Ability to take initiative, multi-task, and work independently.
Experience working with law firm attorneys and/or other legal volunteers preferred.
Ability to work within an office environment and have regular interaction via telephone, videoconference, IM, and email with KIND's team.
Regular/weekly travel to local immigration detention facility required.
Ability to work effectively with people of diverse backgrounds, lived experiences, and communication styles.
Committed to prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion as well as embracing transparency and authenticity in daily work life.
Be disciplined and nimble to ensure delivery on our core mission of access to justice and protection of children’s wellbeing and rights.
Showing the ability to multi-task and work with a sense of urgency in a dynamic, fast paced environment.
Committed to practicing and supporting wellbeing and a work-home life balance.
Experience working and communicating in a remote environment.
Salary Range: $75,000 - $84,300 a year
Benefits: Discover the perks of working for KIND
KIND requires all staff be COVID vaccinated with the exception of those who have medical or religious beliefs exemptions.
