Yep, that's right, this girl is employed upon returning to the States. No more ramen noodles, paying bus fare in dimes or begging Obama to pay me. That is such an amazing feeling. Although I have loved serving my country while living like the locals, I am very excited to be able to afford things I need AND want. So what is this job I'm speaking of you ask?
About a month ago I started really updating my resume and committing to searching/applying for jobs. I was surprised to hear people back in the States listening to Fox News to much while telling me "oh the job market is still terrible, good luck finding something". As a matter of fact, there are PLENTY jobs out there, you just have to have the right connections and near awesome resume, both of which I have! haha.
I made a few calls, sent some emails and finally landed an interview with the Ozark Center in Joplin, Missouri. Most people in and around Joplin know the Ozark for lots of different reasons from drug rehab to autism support to behavioral health and counseling. It's that one stop shop for all your mental health needs. I interview with two awesome ladies who went out of their way to call long distance (sorry about that) and we had a great conversation. They seem like they love their job and are eager to find people who want to help.
After about a week and a half of nervous waiting I was contacted by the Ozark Center and offered the position of Community Support Specialist with Family Preservation. Due to the increasing needs of the community, related to the May 22nd tornado, Ozark Center has seen a need for additional Support Workers. That is where I come in. Named after the honorable tornado victim Will Norton, "Will’s Place, developed by Ozark Center in conjunction with the Missouri Department of Mental Health, provides comprehensive behavioral health services to children ages 2-18. Services provided include psychiatric services, outpatient therapy for children and families, psychological evaluations, and targeted case management. All services, developmentally- and age-appropriate, are responsive to the child’s social/cultural situation and communication needs." (source http://www.freemanhealth.com/willsplace).
In summary, I will have a case load of children whom I support through referrals to resources in the community. The most exciting part of the job for me will be building relationships with these families and helping them with their needs as best I can. I think this is a great step for me and I am honored to be part of the amazing Ozark Center.
Alas, something to return to...
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