Early Childhood Advocate

Door of Hope•Pasadena, CA

About The Position

Door of Hope, a Christian nonprofit that empowers families facing homelessness to transform their lives, is hiring an Early Childhood Advocate to support children ages 1–4. The role creates a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment where young children can learn, explore, build relationships, and thrive. Through play-based learning, responsive caregiving, and intentional interactions, the Advocate supports children’s emotional, social, physical, cognitive, and spiritual development. The ideal candidate has a genuine passion for early childhood development, patience, strong organizational skills, and a proactive approach to nurturing each child’s God-given strengths. The position is 20.5 hours per week: Monday, 1:30–8:30 p.m.; Tuesday–Thursday, 4:00–8:30 p.m., with some flexibility. Occasional weekends are required.

Requirements

Experience working with young children, particularly ages 1–4.
Valid driver’s license and at least two years of driving experience.
Ability to lift and carry 30 pounds.
Basic Microsoft Office and computer skills.
Strong communication, organization, initiative, patience, and follow-through.
Commitment to Door of Hope’s Christian mission and organizational values.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of early childhood development and positive behavior guidance.
Experience in childcare, preschool, or early childhood education.
Experience with children and families impacted by trauma or housing instability.
Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, child development, social work, psychology, education, or a related field, in progress or completed.
Bilingual in Spanish.

Responsibilities

Provide attentive, responsive care in a safe, nurturing environment for children ages 1–4.
Plan and facilitate play-based activities that support language, motor skills, sensory exploration, creativity, early learning, and social-emotional development.
Support emotional regulation, peer interactions, and transitions through positive, developmentally appropriate guidance and consistent routines.
Observe children’s strengths and needs and communicate relevant updates to parents and program leadership.
Follow all child safety, supervision, hygiene, and organizational policies.
Build welcoming, trusting relationships with parents, residents, team members, and volunteers.
Communicate with parents about children’s experiences and partner with the team to support their development.
Prepare enrichment materials and maintain clean, safe, organized classrooms, toys, and supplies.
Assist with administrative tasks, including attendance, calendars, permission forms, and supply lists.
Provide guidance to volunteers on appropriate interactions with young children.
Pick up donations, support relevant community resources, and assist with family events, including the Annual Toy Drive, Summer Festival, and Christmas Party.
Support other Children & Youth program needs and perform additional duties as needed.