Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Community Service
Interests
Timeline
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Dana Higgins

Dana Higgins

Olivet,Mi

Summary

Dynamic youth care professional with over 30 years of leadership experience in crisis intervention and program planning, recognized for developing impactful mentoring programs that foster supportive environments. Proficient in Microsoft Office and certified in CPR and First Aid, demonstrating a commitment to safety and skill development.

Overview

32
32
years of professional experience

Work History

Lead Staff/DSP

Beacon Specialized Living
Kalamazoo, MI
06.2020 - Current
  • Supported the development of youth residents through servant leadership in mentoring and training initiatives.
  • Conducted staff training on crisis intervention techniques.
  • Delivered instruction on protocols for medication administration.
  • Serves as the lead staff member at the new six-bed crisis residential unit started in December 2020, hired specifically for the program.
  • Facilitated cohesive environment through management of daily tasks including event organization and team communication.
  • Assisted in designing and executing the programming update scheduled for 2025.
  • Maintained inventory levels of food, kitchen, and cleaning supplies, placing orders when necessary.
  • Managed the safe and efficient serving of client foods.
  • Answered phone calls and routed correspondence to appropriate staff members.

Youth Specialist

Sequel Youth Services/Starr Albion Prep
Albion, MI
11.2014 - 06.2017
  • Collaborated effectively with interdisciplinary team members to deliver coordinated care.
  • Created and executed successful program strategies.
  • Identified service-learning opportunities within the community.
  • Supported educators in maintaining effective classroom environments.
  • Managed supply orders for both food items and cottage materials.
  • Coordinated transportation logistics for home visits.
  • Certified as a crisis intervention trainer.
  • Kept youth safe and secure at facility and in public.
  • Encouraged constructive dialogue between participants while facilitating group discussions.
  • Assisted in coordinating services such as health care, mental health counseling, tutoring, as needed.

Youth Care Worker

Sunny Crest Youth Ranch
Sunfield, MI
06.2017 - 06.2020
  • Oversaw operations during day shift.
  • Served as behavioral liaison bridging communication between ranch and public schools attended by clients.
  • Managed event logistics for extracurricular athletic activities.
  • Conducted training sessions for new hires.
  • Provided crisis intervention services during times of distress or emergency situations.
  • Mentored and supported young people through collaborative activities and social programs.
  • Supported and encouraged academic performance to help youth achieve educational goals.
  • Utilized vehicles to transport youth to and from school, appointments and outings.
  • Participated in team meetings to discuss progress and challenges of youths in care.

Youth Care Worker, Multiple Roles

Starr Commonwealth
Albion, MI
10.1992 - 11.2014
  • Roles included: Residential Life Coordinator, Transitional Living Coordinator, Cottage Coordinator, Youth Specialist, and Night Staff.
  • Prepared students for future placement.
  • Coordinated all medical services for students as needed.
  • Facilitated and participated in biweekly phone calls between students and their families.
  • Coordinated home visits and transportation plans.
  • Worked flexible hours to fulfill the needs of students and families.
  • Effective treatment team member.
  • Developed and implemented an effective program plan.
  • Lead program planning activities.
  • Identified service-learning projects within the community.
  • Supported classroom activities.
  • Created structured transitional living framework tailored for Montcalm School.
  • Assisted in assembling comprehensive treatment plans.
  • Conducted sessions focused on developing critical life capabilities.
  • Facilitated employment opportunities matching student skillsets.
  • Identified diverse opportunities to support student volunteering.
  • Supervised daily activities and ensured a safe environment for all youth.

Education

Associates - General Studies

Kellogg Community College
2010

Skills

  • Activity Development and Implementation
  • Developing Trusting Student Connections
  • Cooperative Team Player
  • Skilled in Communication
  • Active Listening
  • Collaborate With Treatment Team
  • Peer group training
  • Crisis Resolution
  • Coaching for Sports Teams
  • Certified Official with 25 Years Tenure
  • Sports Retail Management
  • Scheduling Management

Community Service

  • Former President of the Michigan Alternative Athletic Association
  • Volunteered alongside students at the Special Olympics Summer Games
  • Volunteer coach for youth sports
  • Volunteer parent support for Olivet High School Marching Band,

Interests

  • Former Sports Jeopardy champion
  • Member of a senior softball national title team

Timeline

Lead Staff/DSP

Beacon Specialized Living
06.2020 - Current

Youth Care Worker

Sunny Crest Youth Ranch
06.2017 - 06.2020

Youth Specialist

Sequel Youth Services/Starr Albion Prep
11.2014 - 06.2017

Youth Care Worker, Multiple Roles

Starr Commonwealth
10.1992 - 11.2014

Associates - General Studies

Kellogg Community College

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Dana Higgins