Gheydis Paredes

Conduct an average of 10-15 home visits per month covering multiple counties in NC. Serve as the first contact for all families, especially those whose native language is Spanish, with children newly identified as deaf or hard of hearing. Provide objective information about all communication approaches, educational placement options, and available resources. Provide emotional support to families. Assist families in obtaining appropriate services for their child. Provide consultation, seminars/workshops and technical assistance promoting the understanding and success of families with children who are deaf or hard of hearing. Promote early identification of hearing loss. Provide information and support to parents regarding educational rights and procedures, and to accompany families to exceptional children and regular education meetings. Provide advocacy and resource services to families, schools, and other agencies where service delivery may be in dispute. Support professionals serving families by providing resources and support.

Responsible for accurate oral interpretation and written translation with emphasis on medically related communication between limited English proficient (LEP) speaker and healthcare team. Sensitive to cultural perception and use language appropriate to the educational and linguistic sophistication of both the client and the healthcare provider. Educate medial staff on cultural believes and practices that affect western medical care. Cultural Broker. Advocate for patients rights.

Responsible for serving as the agency Spanish Interpreter/Translator assisting non-English speaking Hispanic families with accessing needed assistance from 40 plus services offered by the department. Conduct face to face interviews to ensure families understand their government benefits and eligibility guidelines by interpreting and translating these program policies appropriately. Maintain up to date knowledge and understanding of DSS programs like Medicaid, Food Nutrition Services, WFFA and more. Accurately interpret allegations of suspected child abuse or neglect following all guidelines for Child Protective Services. Conduct in person home visits to interpret assessments, crisis intervention plans, case planning and appropriate referrals for all Child Welfare Departments including Foster Care and Family reunification Unit. Responsible for documentation of interactions with clients and families, collaterals and other identified family supports. On call after hours for CPS. Serve as the communication tool between (LEP) speaker and workers during crisis and emergency situations.