Kinship Specialist

The State of South Dakota’s Department of Social Services is seeking one or more firms to provide kinship‑specialist services. The contractor will conduct initial diligent kinship searches, assess and engage potential kinship caregivers, perform ongoing outreach, and document all activities in the Family and Child Information System (FACIS). The work is performance‑based, with strict timelines for initial searches (≤ 60 days) and ongoing contacts (monthly, then every 90 days), and includes reporting, training, and coordination with Child Protection Services, tribal partners, and licensing agencies. • Conduct initial kinship searches within 60 calendar days of referral (30‑day extension possible). • Perform phone and home‑study assessments, refer interested kin to licensing, and maintain monthly contact with families pursuing placement. • Record all search, assessment, and placement activities in FACIS; provide quarterly and year‑end performance reports. • Provide training, attend case‑planning meetings, and collaborate with CPS, Family Services Specialists, and tribal ICWA agents. • Contract runs June 1 2026 – May 31 2027 (one‑year base term) with up‑to‑three optional one‑year renewals.