Family Advocate - Full Time - Our House EHS

GOODWILL IND OF THE CHESAPEAKE INC•Baltimore, MD

2d•$25 - $31

About The Position

Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake is seeking a compassionate and motivated Family Advocate to support families enrolled in the Our House Early Head Start Program. The role partners with families of children from birth to age three, helping them access resources, develop goals, overcome barriers, and build foundations for long-term success. The Family Advocate serves as a trusted resource and connector, providing support through home visits, family assessments, referrals, parent education, and community partnerships while ensuring compliance with Head Start Performance Standards and program requirements. The position involves up to 75% local travel and regular home visits, in a combination of office, home-visiting, and community settings. Mileage reimbursement is available.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Social Work, Human Development, Child & Family Studies, or a related field.
Minimum of one year of experience in family services, home visiting, counseling, advocacy, case management, or a related field.
CPR, First Aid, and Universal Precautions Certification.
Parents as Teachers (PAT) Certification.
Valid Maryland driver's license and current auto insurance.
CJIS criminal background clearance.
Pre-employment physical examination and tuberculosis screening.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to build trusting relationships with families from diverse backgrounds.
Knowledge of community resources and family support services.
Strong organizational, documentation, and time-management skills.
Effective problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and electronic case management systems.
Compassion, empathy, and respect for individuals with diverse experiences and needs.
Reliable transportation.
Ability to lift up to 20 pounds occasionally.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with families with young children.

Responsibilities

Recruit and enroll eligible families into Early Head Start services.
Conduct home visits and family assessments to identify strengths, needs, and goals.
Develop individualized service plans and support families in achieving self-sufficiency goals.
Connect families with community resources and supportive services through referrals and follow-up.
Provide guidance and education related to parenting, child development, health, and family well-being.
Advocate for families and help them navigate community and social service systems.
Monitor child development and assist with referrals for developmental screenings and specialized services when needed.
Maintain and update a comprehensive network of community resources and service providers.
Collaborate with program staff and community partners to ensure children and families receive appropriate support.
Maintain accurate case notes, records, and family files.
Enter and manage participant information within program databases and tracking systems.
Prepare monthly reports, statistical data, and required program documentation.
Ensure compliance with Head Start Performance Standards, licensing regulations, and organizational policies.
Participate in staff meetings, case reviews, training, and professional development activities.
Work collaboratively with teachers, home visitors, community agencies, and program leadership.
Perform other duties as assigned to support program operations.