Director of Family Supports

THE COMMUNITY GROUP•Lawrence, MA

89d•$60,000 - $85,000

About The Position

The Director of Family Support plays a central role in promoting and supporting the well-being of children and families through program design, system/policy development/monitoring, and strong advocacy. This position will work closely with program directors from across the agency to lead a team of Family Advocates/Case Managers as they build trusting family partnerships and coordinate services that support each family. This position reports to the Chief of Program Supports. Responsibilities (include but not limited to): Family Advocacy & Case Management: Design and implement a system to screen families and identify potential supports that will center the needs of each family and maximize children success in our programs Guide staff in navigating complex family needs, elevating family voice and coordinating holistic services that address child development, family stability, mental health, and access to community resources. Oversee the development and implementation of individualized family plans and track progress toward family goals for families enrolled through select eligibility categories. Ensure service coordination across agencies (e.g., DCF, EOHLC, Early Intervention, public schools), promoting continuity of care and goal alignment for families. Participate in case management and leadership meetings to advocate for family-centered solutions and recommend action plans. Family Engagement & Communication: Collaborate with program leadership to develop strategies and initiatives to enhance authentic family engagement and build strong, trusting relationships with families. Represent the organization in community forums and outreach efforts to elevate family voice and needs. Collaboration & Program Support: Support families in gaining knowledge of and completing developmental screenings in collaboration with program staff and family advocates Support families and educators through the referral process and necessary follow-ups for students with disabilities and/or additional learning needs in collaboration with early intervention, public schools, and external service providers. Support accurate documentation for children receiving external support, in compliance with licensing and accreditation standards. Support families through transitions across internal and external programs promoting continuity of care, effective communication, and warm, welcoming interactions that center the needs of each family. Professional Development & Training: Identify and support staff training needs related to family advocacy, trauma-informed care, and inclusive practices. Monitor service delivery for effectiveness, using data to drive decisions and continuous improvement. Participate in initiatives and projects that promote inclusive practices and strengthen family support/engagement frameworks. Core Values: Uphold and promote the mission and values of The Community Group, advocating for families as equal partners in the child’s learning journey. Other: May assist with additional duties as needed.

Requirements

Previous leadership and management experience preferred
Experience developing efficient and effective systems and developing/documenting policies around it
Bilingual English/Spanish proficiency is required
Familiarity with EEC regulations
Creative thinker willing to be flexible to maximize impact
Highly organized and capable of managing several simultaneous workflows
Willingness to hold self and others accountable to outcomes
Adept and proactive communicator
Outgoing and professional personality
Solutions- and team-oriented
Proficient using technology
Relevant experience and a Bachelor degree is required
Must possess the qualifications required for their positions in accordance with EEC regulations
Must complete CORI, SORI and fingerprint scan in accordance with regulations set forth by the Department of Early Education and Care prior to employment
Evidence of physical examination within one year prior to employment
Evidence of immunizations against Measles, Mumps and Rubella
Maintain current infant/child CPR and First Aid Certification

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with local community resources a plus

Responsibilities

Design and implement a system to screen families and identify potential supports that will center the needs of each family and maximize children success in our programs
Guide staff in navigating complex family needs, elevating family voice and coordinating holistic services that address child development, family stability, mental health, and access to community resources.
Oversee the development and implementation of individualized family plans and track progress toward family goals for families enrolled through select eligibility categories.
Ensure service coordination across agencies (e.g., DCF, EOHLC, Early Intervention, public schools), promoting continuity of care and goal alignment for families.
Participate in case management and leadership meetings to advocate for family-centered solutions and recommend action plans.
Collaborate with program leadership to develop strategies and initiatives to enhance authentic family engagement and build strong, trusting relationships with families.
Represent the organization in community forums and outreach efforts to elevate family voice and needs.
Support families in gaining knowledge of and completing developmental screenings in collaboration with program staff and family advocates
Support families and educators through the referral process and necessary follow-ups for students with disabilities and/or additional learning needs in collaboration with early intervention, public schools, and external service providers.
Support accurate documentation for children receiving external support, in compliance with licensing and accreditation standards.
Support families through transitions across internal and external programs promoting continuity of care, effective communication, and warm, welcoming interactions that center the needs of each family.
Identify and support staff training needs related to family advocacy, trauma-informed care, and inclusive practices.
Monitor service delivery for effectiveness, using data to drive decisions and continuous improvement.
Participate in initiatives and projects that promote inclusive practices and strengthen family support/engagement frameworks.
Uphold and promote the mission and values of The Community Group, advocating for families as equal partners in the child’s learning journey.
May assist with additional duties as needed.