Abby Kelley
Gadsden,AL
Summary
Foster Care Specialist with strong skills in documentation, case advocacy, and crisis management. Experienced in engaging youth and families, advocating for their needs, and implementing intervention strategies to support child development.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
Work History
Foster Care Specialist
CEDARS Youth Services
Lincoln , NE
05.2024 - 08.2025
- Managed an average caseload of 16 to 21 foster youth, ranging from ages 0 to 18.
- Met with youth and foster parents from 1 to 5 times a month, per their needs, to build bonds with the foster youth and family.
- Created and maintained necessary documentation (master assessments, monthly reports, safety plans, etc.). Thoroughly and in a timely manner.
- Advocated for youth in collaboration with their full case team; attended court and IEP meetings as needed.
- Participated in rotating on-call schedule to set up emergency intakes, address any crises or issues during the week and weekend afterhours.
Nursery Caregiver
Christ Lutheran Church
Lincoln, NE
10.2023 - 08.2025
- Engaged 1-15 children, ages 0-5, in activities during church sessions on Sundays and Wednesdays.
- Supported children when they were upset, and helped them regulate their emotions.
- Assisted parents in settling children during drop-off and pick-up times.
- Maintained a safe and clean environment for infants and toddlers.
Intern - Foster Care
CEDARS Youth Services
Lincoln , NE
01.2024 - 05.2024
- I shadowed foster care specialists during their weekly home visits, court visits, and family team meetings with foster youth and their families.
- Created my own case notes and documentation from shadowing home visits, court visits, and family team meetings.
- Assisted the foster care licensing team in calling new foster homes and typing up documentation using FamCare and other MS systems.
- Led home visits with supervision, and helped provide resources to the family.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Education And Human Sciences
University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Lincoln05-2024
Skills
- Documentation management
- Case advocacy
- Foster care regulations
- Intervention strategies
- Crisis management
- Child development knowledge
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Foster Care Specialist
CEDARS Youth Services
05.2024 - 08.2025
Intern - Foster Care
CEDARS Youth Services
01.2024 - 05.2024
Nursery Caregiver
Christ Lutheran Church
10.2023 - 08.2025
Bachelor of Science - Education And Human Sciences
University of Nebraska - Lincoln