Director of Child Welfare

The Tanzanian Children’s Fund (TCF) works to eliminate poverty and improve the lives of marginalized children and families in the Oldeani area of northern Tanzania. With a budget of approximately $3 million USD, our goal is to ensure that all children and families in this region have the opportunity to lead healthy, secure, and fulfilling lives. Through four programmatic areas - a children’s home (Rift Valley Children’s Village - RVCV), a health clinic, educational partnerships with local schools, and an economic opportunity program - we endeavor to provide a community of 10,000 with all the tools, systems and opportunities they need to find a path out of generational poverty.

TCF is seeking a compassionate, organized, and adaptable problem-solver to join our team in Tanzania. This is a full-time contract position, responsible for both fostering a loving, safe, and supportive family environment for the children who live at RVCV as well as supporting and leading the adults overseeing their welfare. The Director of Child Welfare will be a member of the Leadership Team. Due to the spontaneous nature of child welfare, duties of this position may change from time to time during the period of employment.

Responsibilities of the Director of Child Welfare will include, but are not limited to:

Child Welfare Policies

• Develop and implement child welfare policies and services that will address the social and emotional needs of the children who call RVCV home
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of our welfare initiatives and adjust programs as necessary
• Work with the Senior Leadership Team to evaluate the capacity and timing for in-take of new children

Staff Management

• Manage the Social Work Team, including through daily check-ins
• Oversee the team of House Mamas and Patrons to ensure each Children’s House is creating an optimal environment for the children living there

Government Relations

• In collaboration with the Senior Leadership Team, ensure RVCV maintains a positive and productive working relationship with the Social Welfare Office in Karatu
  • Serve as RVCV’s point of contact for the District Social Welfare Office
• Ensure compliance with Tanzanian legislation regarding child protection and welfare
  • Oversee the calendar of required family member visits by the Social Work team and ensure the visits happen in a timely manner
  • Ensure required reporting requirements are submitted to the appropriate Social Welfare Officers in Karatu
  • Oversee the living accommodations when older children are home visiting RVCV during school breaks or between employment opportunities, making sure all local policies are complied with

Child Care and Protection

• Oversee RVCV children-related responsibilities, including, but not limited to:
  • Career counseling and launching
  • Post-secondary school selections
  • Utilization and scheduling of mental health support
  • Activities for children
  • Ensure safety and security of RVCV kids by discouraging inappropriate behaviors
• Support and manage the relationship of young adults who have launched, ensuring they continue to feel supported and welcomed by RVCV

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required, preference for a degree in Social Work
• Minimum of 3 years experience in a similar role
• Minimum commitment of 2 years required
• Proficiency in English required, proficiency in Swahili preferred
• Candidate must be outgoing, friendly, easygoing, and open-minded
• Team-oriented and collaborative
• Ability to thrive living in a rural setting in Tanzania
• Sense of humor and positive attitude