Who can designate a staff member as an out-of-home care provider?

The designation of a staff member as an out-of-home care provider primarily falls under the responsibility of the operator of the group home or facility. This means that the operator, who manages the day-to-day functions and policies of the facility, has the authority to determine which staff members are qualified and suitable to provide care for the residents. This includes assessing their training, experience, and capability to meet the needs of the juveniles in care.

While the county department may have guidelines and standards that facilities must meet and the juvenile's legal guardian may have input regarding care preferences or needs, it is ultimately the operator who implements and oversees care practices at the operational level. The department of corrections also plays a role in the broader context of juvenile care, particularly regarding youth involved in the correctional system, but they do not specifically designate staff at group homes or facilities. By having the operator of the facility in charge of this designation, it ensures that those directly overseeing the care of the youth have the most relevant knowledge and oversight needed for effective operation.