Cynthia Herskowitz
Tucson
Summary
Dynamic professional with extensive experience in child welfare and adoption services. Skilled in decision-making and people management, successfully implemented policies that improved adoption processes and engaged communities. Committed to fostering high-performing teams and delivering impactful programs.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Adoptive Parent Services
Adoption Choices of Arizona
08.2019 - Current
- Developed and implemented policies to improve adoption processes and client services.
- Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Mentored staff to foster professional growth and enhance team performance.
- Collaborated with stakeholders to advance community outreach and engagement efforts.
Program Manager
Child Crisis Arizona
05.2017 - 05.2019
- Led cross-functional teams to develop and implement program strategies addressing child welfare needs.
- Streamlined operational processes, enhancing service delivery efficiency across multiple programs.
- Designed and facilitated training sessions for staff on best practices in crisis intervention techniques.
- Collaborated with community partners to expand resources and support services for at-risk families.
- Monitored program outcomes, ensuring compliance with state regulations and organizational standards.
- Managed and supervised administrative and daily program operations, complying with policies and regulations.
- Managed cross-functional teams for successful project completion within deadlines and budgets.
ICWA Program Manager
Oklahoma Department of Human Services
02.2015 - 02.2017
- Led cross-functional teams to develop and implement comprehensive service programs.
- Managed program budgets, ensuring compliance with funding regulations and resource allocation.
- Streamlined reporting processes using data management systems for improved efficiency and accuracy.
- Developed training materials and conducted workshops to enhance staff capabilities in program execution.
- Coordinated outreach efforts, fostering partnerships that expanded service accessibility and community engagement.
- Supervised project timelines, ensuring milestones were met while maintaining quality standards in deliverables.
- Developed strategic plans, setting clear objectives and achievable milestones for the team.
- Facilitated workshops and conducted one-on-one training to educate team members.
Social Services Coordinator
Gila River Indian Community Social Services
03.2015 - 01.2017
- Coordinated service delivery for community members, ensuring access to essential resources and support systems.
- Developed and implemented social programs that addressed community needs and promoted well-being.
- Collaborated with local organizations to enhance service offerings and resource availability for clients.
- Conducted assessments to identify individual needs, tailoring services to improve client outcomes.
- Trained and mentored junior staff in program procedures, enhancing team efficiency and service quality.
- Advocated for community interests at local meetings, fostering partnerships that supported social services expansion.
- Identified community resources to support clients.
- Visited homes and agencies to provide support and case management services to clients.
- Coordinated with social, public, and welfare agencies to obtain and provide client information.
- Prepared reports for courts and participated in numerous court proceedings.
Executive Director
A Place to Call Home
02.2013 - 02.2015
- Led strategic planning initiatives to enhance organizational effectiveness and mission alignment.
- Developed and implemented operational policies to improve service delivery and program efficiency.
- Cultivated partnerships with community stakeholders to expand resource networks and service reach.
- Oversaw budget management processes, ensuring financial sustainability and compliance with regulations.
- Directed performance evaluations for staff, fostering professional growth through mentorship and training programs.
- Facilitated board meetings, providing insights on strategic direction and operational challenges.
- Worked closely with organizational leadership and board of directors to guide operational strategy.
- Oversaw financial management, ensuring fiscal responsibility and long-term sustainability for the organization.
- Guided staff through periods of organizational change, maintaining morale and engagement during transitions.
- Managed a diverse team of professionals, fostering a collaborative work environment for increased productivity.
- Fostered work culture of collaboration and inclusion to increase morale and reduce turnover.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors, securing favorable terms while adhering to budgetary constraints.
- Represented organization to local public by giving presentations and speeches and participating in community events.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Austin College
Sherman, TX05-1979
Skills
- Relationship building
- Strategic planning
- Verbal and written communication
- Decision-making
- People management
- Team management
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Director of Adoptive Parent Services
Adoption Choices of Arizona
08.2019 - Current
Program Manager
Child Crisis Arizona
05.2017 - 05.2019
Social Services Coordinator
Gila River Indian Community Social Services
03.2015 - 01.2017
ICWA Program Manager
Oklahoma Department of Human Services
02.2015 - 02.2017
Executive Director
A Place to Call Home
02.2013 - 02.2015
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Austin College