Shalini’s Story

Shalini is a young woman who knows exactly where she’s headed. A chance experience tutoring young children as a high school student while in SCO’s foster care program ignited her passion for teaching, and now guides her every step.

With a razor-sharp focus on achieving her goals, Shalini has mapped out her immediate and long-term plans. First, she’ll graduate from college with a bachelor’s degree in early education. And then it’s off to graduate school to earn her master’s in teaching. A few years ago, these might have been considered lofty goals, but with the right supports in place, Shalini is well on her way.

Shalini was placed in SCO’s Foster Care program after the death of her father 9 years ago. While safe and well-cared for by her foster family, she was angry and worried about the future. “I needed a team to support me and advise me, and give me the right tools to succeed,” she reflects.

And a team is exactly what she received. SCO provided the resources, services, and guidance she needed to become her best self. During high school, a team of education and mental health specialists helped Shalini overcome obstacles and helped her to realize she “did not have to transition to adulthood alone.” She participated in mentoring programs, made new connections, and built relationships with other young adults in care. As her confidence grew, Shalini began tutoring children from a nearby elementary school as part of her program with SCO. That was the “aha” moment that shaped her future. She fell in love with teaching!

When it was time for college, SCO’s staff helped Shalini complete applications, navigate financial aid, and apply to the Dorm Project, which enables her to live in a college dorm all year round. Her SCO coach remains a constant presence and is even helping Shalini work towards getting a driver’s license.

Today, Shalini is a rising junior at Hunter College, and we have no doubt she will achieve all she sets out to accomplish.

Ryan’s Story

At 7 years old, Ryan was removed from his mother’s home and placed in SCO’s Foster Care program. Options for exploring his interests and creativity were limited. But that all changed for Ryan when his mentor at SCO encouraged and empowered him to pursue his dreams.

This mentorship broadened Ryan’s world and opened doors to opportunities. He discovered his abilities and strengths, nurtured a love for science, and developed his networking skills. Today, Ryan is proud to pay his experience forward by mentoring, encouraging, and guiding younger children at SCO.

Ryan is now a sophomore majoring in Biology at Jamestown Community College. SCO assisted him with transportation, college applications, and opportunities for financial aid to help him fulfill his potential and continue his education.

“Thank you for investing in my future,” said Ryan. “There is so much I would not have been able to do without the care and support that I received from SCO Family of Services.”

Direct Care Worker Job Openings at Robert J McMahon Children’s Center in Sea Cliff

Begin a Career at SCO Family of Services at the Robert J McMahon Children’s Center in Sea Cliff.

SCO Family of Services helps New Yorkers build a strong foundation for the future. We get young children off to a good start, launch youth into adulthood, stabilize and strengthen families and unlock potential for children and adults with special needs. SCO has provided vital human services throughout New York City and Long Island for 125 years. Become part of our SCO family today!

Positions Available for:
Behavioral Health Specialists
Psychologists
Social Work Supervisors

Apply Now

The Robert J. McMahon Children’s Center
The Robert J. McMahon Children’s Center (RJMCC) in Nassau County, Long Island serves children and adolescents with intellectual disabilities. RJMCC includes a Residential Treatment Center (RTC), which provides 24-hour nursing care, social services and a variety of therapies that help them unlock their potential and achieve as much independence as their abilities allow. Residents of RJMCC attend the Tyree Learning Center, a New York State certified special education school designed to accommodate the children’s needs.

Why SCO?

SCO’s dedicated professionals help improve the health and well-being of over 60,000 New Yorkers each year. We apply the same principle to ensuring our staff is well cared for through a robust benefits package, professional development opportunities, health and wellness initiatives, tuition reimbursement and more. Our benefits include:

  • Flexible Work Schedule
  • Paid Holidays Off
  • Vacation & Sick Time
  • 403B Retirement Plan
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance & more!

 

Apply Now

Responsibilities include

  • Provide a safe, clean and caring living environment for program residents.
  • Foster/promote as much independent behavior as possible when supporting/teaching self-help skills.
  • Participate in activity programming including individual and group activities, sports, games, trips and enrichment activities, etc.
  • Attention to and support of medical issues, student educational/vocational needs, casework and clinical appointments.

Qualifications

  • Minimum of High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Must have a valid driver’s license

Apply Now!

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Shalini’s Story

Destined for success with support from her SCO team

Read Shalini’s Story

Ryan’s Story

Empowerment through mentorship

Read Ryan’s Story

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