Bilingual Family and Community Engagement Support Specialist, Village Wellness Center

IT TAKES A VILLAGE FAMILY OF SCHOOLS • Chicago, IL

7d • $52,000 - $55,500 • Onsite

About The Position

The Bilingual Family and Community Engagement Support Specialist supports children and families and strengthens their connections to services and community resources. The role combines case management, family engagement, care coordination, resource navigation, and administrative support to provide individualized, culturally responsive support that promotes family wellness, stability, and student success.

Reporting to the VWC Clinical Director, the specialist serves as the bilingual English/Spanish first point of contact for families, visitors, and staff. The role collaborates with families, site personnel, site leaders, and community partners to identify needs, establish family goals, coordinate services, and connect families with behavioral health and other community resources. It also provides administrative support and helps create a welcoming environment.

This is an in-person, full-time, 12-month position based at the Village Wellness Center, with the main partner site at ITAV CCS in Humboldt Park, Chicago. Work may take place in the office, community settings, and multiple service locations. The schedule is 40 hours per week, generally Monday through Friday, with occasional evening hours to accommodate client and family needs. Local travel between Village Wellness Center locations, ITAV schools, and community partners is required as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Development, Family Studies, Psychology, or Sociology.
• At least 2 years of experience working in an Early Childhood Education environment with underserved families from diverse backgrounds.
• Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish, both spoken and written.
• Level 4/5 Family Specialist Credential required, or ability to obtain it.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills and dedication to culturally responsive, client-centered care.
• Proficiency in documentation and reporting practices and commitment to confidentiality.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to remain professional and positive under pressure.
• Strong organizational skills to meet deadlines, prepare detailed reports, and maintain accurate documentation.
• Flexibility to work evenings and Saturdays when needed.
• Demonstrated passion and competence in supporting family development.
• Ability to sit, stand, and use office equipment for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and move office supplies and materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to travel occasionally for recruitment and community engagement activities.

Nice To Haves

• IM+CANS certification.
• Valid driver’s license, reliable automobile, and insurance.
• CPR/First Aid certification.
• Familiarity with PI, PFA, Head Start, and Early Head Start funding requirements.

Responsibilities

• Provide personalized case management and help families access resources such as healthcare, childcare, and financial services.
• Conduct family assessments within 45 days of enrollment, make relevant referrals, and document progress toward defined goals.
• Maintain accurate, confidential records of family interactions and referrals in accordance with organizational standards.
• Build relationships with families through individual meetings, phone consultations, and community events.
• Encourage family participation in program activities, workshops, and goal-setting initiatives.
• Facilitate individual and group discussions and activities with families and community members.
• Collaborate with local service providers to connect families with resources supporting holistic health, wellness, and academic success.
• Support recruitment initiatives for prospective students and families, engage community partners, and advocate for the Village Wellness Center's mission.
• Plan and facilitate family workshops, educational sessions, and resource-focused activities based on identified needs.
• Facilitate developmentally appropriate social-emotional learning lessons and other wellness-focused educational activities for students, as assigned.
• Support parent education, family engagement, and wellness programming in collaboration with VWC and site staff.
• Connect families with community resources and educational opportunities.
• Collect physical examination, immunization, and dental records to support student health compliance.
• Audit and maintain student files and participate in regular audits to support service quality.
• Submit bi-monthly follow-up case notes for service connections and referrals.
• Follow Early Head Start, Head Start, and DFSS policies and rules in daily practice and program planning.
• Participate in regular training and professional development on family support, case management, and relevant policy updates.
• Serve as the bilingual English/Spanish first point of contact for families, visitors, and staff.
• Manage incoming phone calls, site communications, visitor sign-in, and building access.
• Support file management and record retention in accordance with funder and site policies.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Up to 80% employer-paid medical coverage.
• Full benefits package including dental, vision, legal services, and short-term disability.
• 3% employer match for 401(k).
• 16 PTO days per year.
• 9 sick/personal days per year.
• Compensatory time eligibility.
• 15 paid holidays annually.
• Professional development and career advancement opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level