The Valley Regional Fire Authority CARES (Community Assistance, Referral and Education Services) program is an innovative Mobile Integrated Health Program of EMS that serves fire department patients in the communities of Auburn, Pacific, and Algona, WA. Developed to connect 911 callers who experience medical, mental or social service needs beyond that provided by a first responder, the program allows EMT/Fire Fighters to submit a referral for follow up by practicum students serving as CARES social workers. These CARES social workers perform telephonic and/or in-home assessments to identify the issues to be addressed and then provide case management until clients are connected to resources to meet their needs.

As members of the CARES team, students will meet with clients referred to the CARES program by firefighters. CARES staff perform an in-home assessment to identify the issues to be addressed, then develop a care plan: this could be as simple as arranging for installation of in-home equipment like grab bars to prevent falls or as involved as contacting family members, physicians, or other state and/or community agencies to develop a more robust support plan or contacting the Mobile Crisis Unit when there is an immediate risk to the client. Students will work with a diverse population of clients who are elderly, domestic violence survivors, and those experiencing chronic mental illness, substance use, and homelessness. CARES staff track each referral throughout the process to ensure that the client is connected to the necessary resources and provide case management throughout.

CARES social workers engage in regular research of, and coordination with, appropriate social, mental health, medical, and/or community service agencies. Students will participate in multi-disciplinary case management teams, when appropriate, to develop care management plans. Work with families to implement care plans and leverage natural supports to maintain the least restrictive care options possible for CARES patients. Ride-alongs with firefighters and station visits provide an opportunity to learn about the breadth of issues impacting the fire department and community as well as opportunities for knowledge sharing between fire fighters and social workers to address community trends.

Opportunity for observing Fire Department budgeting process and how programs and improvements are funded during budget process and levy cycles. Attend Board of Governance meetings. Attend regional and state-wide MIH/Co-Response meetings to understand how legislation effects funding for programming.

No experience required, however student should be prepared to interact with the elderly and individuals who may be currently involved in a mental health or substance use crisis, be comfortable working in a first responder environment and be prepared to enter homes where hoarding and/or cleanliness may be an issue. Students will always work in pairs and have a radio for backup, if needed.

Valley Regional Fire Authority
C.A.R.E.S.
Carrie Talamaivao, MSW, LICSW
carrie.talamaivao@vrfa.org
253-288-5887