Family Advocate

Purpose: The purpose of this position is to ensure that the family of each enrolled child is afforded the opportunity to develop and implement an individualized plan of service based on their interest and needs. Operate as a liaison between the center and home setting in all functional areas while promoting family wellness and involvement through a case management process.

Job Responsibilities

Ensure, through a case management system, that all families are provided an opportunity to participate in a Family Partnership Plan, complete a Family Assessment and provide timely resources and referrals as a result of identified needs and goals of parents and/or guardians during this process.

Implement goals, policies, procedures and activities designed to provide the full range of family support services in compliance with Head Start Performance Standards, including assisting with obtaining health and dental services, and other child/family services identified, as part of ongoing case management. Implement a formal system of follow-up with families on referrals to community agencies, to assure the satisfactory provision of services.

Establish, maintain and monitor an efficient record keeping system in line with program policies and procedures, with adequate provisions for confidentiality. Ensure accurate data entry and up to date records of all enrolled families and Child Plus data system by auditing of reports monthly, documenting all contact with families and follow-up on attendance, referrals and resources offered to parents and/or guardians.

Serve as an advocate for HS/EHS families within the community and provide ongoing support to families, including those with diverse backgrounds. Develop linkages between other family support service agencies to provide better service delivery. Help families identify and access needed resources including health, mental health, social services, education, and job training.

Promote parent involvement at the center level, participate in IEP and IFSP and other required staffing, and implementation of strengthening family's curriculum, 100 Neediest Cases and provide training for parent and the community in all aspects of family support services, as determined by Family assessment.

Take active role in Family Partnership Unit Special Projects: Care Team to address families in crisis and Male Involvement to promote a more Father-Friendly environment at the Center Level.

Job Requirements
Knowledge of resources within the community, family values, beliefs, traditions, cultural influences, make-up and circumstances
Usage of appropriate verbal and non-verbal messages and listening skills
Ability to type at least 20 words per minute
Ability to problem solve and effectively communicate both verbally and written
Ability to multi-task, manage time and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines and ability to relate well and coordinate with people from diverse backgrounds

Education Requirements
Bachelor degree in Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, or Sociology