Balinda Closs
Henderson,NC
Summary
Results-driven professional with a deep understanding of social justice issues and the various systems that impact marginalized communities. Passionate about developing and facilitating programs that provide much-needed support to these communities. Collaborative and analytical thinker who has built strategic partnerships, advocated for clients, and driven positive change for those in need.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Career Counselor
Covenant/Eckerd Learning Solutions
06.2024 - Current
- Provide counsel to students from diverse backgrounds with completing pathway goals, establish housing and mental barriers set goals, and identify strengths, career challenges, and personal issues affecting job readiness skills
- Track and manage attendance, academic scores, and trade completion for 50-100 students daily/weekly
- Counsel students on barriers like living situations, peer relationships, academics, and mental health issues
- Conduct interviews within 48 hours of new students joining to gather information on living situations, support system, education, and mental barriers
- Retrieve students who are on unauthorized leave
Social Worker II Childcare/Emergency Intake
Vance County Department of Social Services
07.2022 - 06.2024
- Managed a caseload of 130+ families receiving subsidized childcare
- Conducted interviews and assessments to establish service needs and create Plans of Care
- Calculated household income for eligibility and parent fee determination
- Updated childcare services per provider and client requirements
- Completed 30+ assessments daily for Emergency Services
- Conducted interviews with clients for assistance with utilities, rent, medicine, food, and clothing
- Authorized emergency vendor payments quickly
- Collaborated with community agencies for additional client resources
Social Worker I Emergency Intake
Vance County Department of Social Services
08.2021 - 07.2022
- Collected household information to assess eligibility for assistance with utilities, rent, medicine, food, and clothing in crisis situations
- Authorized emergency payments for vendors promptly
- Coordinated with community agencies for additional client resources
- Completed over 30 daily assessments for Emergency Services
- Screened and directed calls to appropriate departments
Adult Vocational Program /Training Manager BS/QP
Community Workforce Solutions
06.2005 - 04.2020
- Managed HR tasks such as interviews, income verification, orientation, employee relations, and training
- Assessed client eligibility for programs to ensure proper placement
- Supervised 6 Employment Specialists in case management and work ethics
- Handled client applications and recertifications
- Established Person-Centered Plans (PCPs)
Education
Bachelor’s degree - organizational management
Saint Augustine University
Raleigh, NCSkills
- Behavioral analysis
- Problem-solving skills
- Self-directed mindset
- Classroom management
- Counseling
- Emotional support
- Verbal and written communication
Timeline
Career Counselor
Covenant/Eckerd Learning Solutions
06.2024 - Current
Social Worker II Childcare/Emergency Intake
Vance County Department of Social Services
07.2022 - 06.2024
Social Worker I Emergency Intake
Vance County Department of Social Services
08.2021 - 07.2022
Adult Vocational Program /Training Manager BS/QP
Community Workforce Solutions
06.2005 - 04.2020
Bachelor’s degree - organizational management
Saint Augustine University
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