Howard Hunt
Kennewick
Summary
Dynamic Engagement Specialist with a proven track record at Support, Advocacy & Resource Center, excelling in crisis intervention and client advocacy. Skilled in teaching and communication, I empower youth through psychoeducational programs, fostering resilience and personal growth. Committed to community safety, I leverage critical thinking to address complex challenges effectively.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
Engagement Specialist in Juvenile Detention
Support, Advocacy & Resource Center
Richland
03.2023 - Current
- Crisis Line: a point of contact for service providers and clients who need immediate emergency assistance. The crisis line also provides information, resources and referrals.
- Crisis Intervention: Assess immediate needs and concerns, in addition to providing information, support and validation for the client's feelings to help identify and plan the next steps.
- Client Advocacy: Ongoing personal support, discussing options and rights. Assist in identifying and prioritizing needs.
- Legal and Medical Advocacy: Respond to hospital calls to provide support during medical exams. Support provided at police interviews and court proceedings, including case management throughout the legal process. Assists with civil protection orders. Referrals for U-Visa obtainment.
- Completed screenings and assessments in order to coordinate care according to the client's identified needs and goals.
- Led psychoeducational classes aimed at promoting positive behavior and personal growth among youth facing various challenges.
- Developed and implemented curriculum covering essential topics such as emotional regulation, conflict resolution, and decision-making skills.
- Provided training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), equipping participants with strategies for managing emotions, coping with stress, and enhancing decision-making.
- Taught key techniques including mindfulness, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness to foster resilience and improve interpersonal relationships.
- Empowered youth to instigate meaningful life changes, promoting hope and guiding them toward a future of success and personal fulfillment.
Social Work Specialist 2
Washington Department of Children, Youth and Families
Richland
03.2022 - Current
- Respond to emergency calls in the Region 2.
- Dedicated and proactive professional with extensive experience in emergency response and child protective services, skilled in ensuring community safety and well-being.
- Promptly respond to emergency calls within the Richland area, providing timely assistance to individuals in need.
- Investigate abuse and neglect reports during after-hours to support families when local DCYF offices are closed.
- Conduct face-to-face contacts for Child Protective Services investigations within 24 hours for emergencies and initiate contacts within 72 hours for non-emergencies under the CPS Family Assessment Response model.
- Schedule and conduct monthly health and safety visits for families under Child and Family Wellness Services and Family Vitality Services.
- Gather and document comprehensive information for thorough assessments of present danger, taking immediate protective action as needed.
Owner
SAFE Defense LLC
Kennewick
12.2007 - Current
- Established and operate SAFE Defense LLC, focusing on self-protection training and education through seminars for small groups and individual sessions.
- Specialize in empowering women and children affected by domestic violence and abuse, delivering skills and confidence necessary for personal safety and security.
- Developed a reputation in the community through partnerships with churches, colleges, and organizations dedicated to women's and children's welfare.
- Conducted impactful training sessions that build awareness, promote resilience, and create supportive environments for participants to recover and grow.
- Featured in local news outlets for contributions to community safety and advocacy efforts, showcasing a commitment to making a positive difference.
Education
MSW - Social Work
Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ08.2024
BS - Criminology and Criminal Justice
Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ12.2020
Homeland Security -
Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ12.2020
Skills
- Teaching and communication
- Empathy and patience
- Customer service and advocacy
- Organizational skills
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
- Active listening and de-escalation training
- Cultural competence and sensitivity
- Professional commitment
- Child protection
- Crisis management
- Investigation and documentation
- Family wellness support
- Risk assessment and intervention
- Effective communication, team collaboration
- Team collaboration
Timeline
Engagement Specialist in Juvenile Detention
Support, Advocacy & Resource Center
03.2023 - Current
Social Work Specialist 2
Washington Department of Children, Youth and Families
03.2022 - Current
Owner
SAFE Defense LLC
12.2007 - Current
MSW - Social Work
Arizona State University
BS - Criminology and Criminal Justice
Arizona State University
Homeland Security -
Arizona State University