Human Services jobs? (Phoenix, Prescott, Camp Verde: house, employment, camp)

[pajemi]

Hi. Brand new here. My husband and I are seriously contemplating a move to Arizona (from Massachusetts). We know there's lots of research to do regarding employment, housing, etc. That said, wondering if anyone here has any knowledge of employment opportunities in "human services"? My husband works for an agency as the director of a small transitional house, serving homless people, many of whom are in recovery from substance abuse. He runs the house and also does "case management" of some of the residents. While I am confident I can find work, as my background is more diverse, he is (rightfully so) very concerned about the job possibilities for HIM. Many companies won't even consider talking to someone unless they are already living in the state. Yet we don't want to move without him having a job lined up.

[observer53]

The budget shortfall in AZ is VERY large. Social services have been severely impacted, but in terms of the goverment (primarily state, but there are issues with county and city as well) agencies providing those services directly and the private facilities that depend largely on govt. funds and private contributions (which are also down in this economy). I would not be planning to move here, and find work in those fields, ANYTIME soon.

[bongofury]

I worked in the field for years, but it's been awhile since I've been in the loop. By and large Phoenix (which is one of my least favorite big cities) is where the jobs are if they're to be had. Most smaller towns in Arizona (with better air quality and light traffic) have but a sprinkling of non-profits and what government social services jobs there are, are scarce. I have a graduate degree in social services and took a b-i-g wage cut coming to AZ, but (not telling you what you don't already know) cost-of-living is much, much less than in the northeast. Two possible employment opportunities come to mind: Prescott, Arizona has a very good job skills and employment live-in/out program for adults with learning disabilities. (I can recommend Prescott as a nice area to live in Arizona). Camp Verde, Arizona has a live-in/out facility called "Rainbow Acres" which is also worth checking out (but I can't recommend Camp Verde as a place to live unless you can afford a home on acreage). Can your husband use an alumni member directory for networking with social service people who have already established themselves in Arizona? In this economy try everything!