Family Advocate

Adopt-a-Family of the Palm Beaches • Lake Worth, FL

5d • Onsite

About The Position

The Family Advocate role centers on empowering individuals and families to achieve long-term housing stability and self-sufficiency. The position combines direct client services, advocacy, data management, and community engagement to ensure clients receive comprehensive, coordinated support. The Family Advocate conducts assessments, develops individualized action plans, and provides ongoing coaching to help clients overcome barriers, strengthen financial and problem-solving skills, and access essential community resources. The role requires strong interpersonal skills, sound judgment, and the ability to build trust with diverse populations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in social work or related field
• Exceptional computer skills and the ability to learn new applications quickly; proficiency with Microsoft programs (i.e. Word, Excel, SharePoint, and Outlook)
• Knowledge of HMIS and/or the ability to learn different software applications and client databases quickly
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Must have excellent people skills and the ability to foster a positive environment
• Ability to adapt and embrace to agency culture
• Must show initiative, be willing to accept new challenges, and champion change within departments
• Must be adaptable, able to manage changing priorities, and meet deadlines

Nice To Haves

• One (1) year experience in the social work field working with homeless/at-risk families is desired
• Knowledge of community agencies that provide social services, and special needs resources to the target population is desired
• Knowledge of the needs of homeless and low-income families
• Familiarity with local support groups and agencies that provide services is desired

Responsibilities

• Complete initial assessments with clients to obtain information about their family situation and determine if they meet preliminary programmatic guidelines
• Complete full intakes with clients to assess needs, strengths, barriers, and resources that could positively impact housing stability.
• Formulate and assist clients in implementing Family Action Plans that specify goals and actions to be taken by caseworker and client to help the family on the road to self-sufficiency
• Advocate for clients with landlords, employers, creditors, community partners, etc., and teach clients to advocate for themselves
• Teach budgeting skills to clients as needed and develop and monitor short and long-term budgeting goals
• Teach problem solving skills to clients who demonstrate the need for such services and teach clients to access community resources on their own
• Conduct follow-up phone calls at least once a month and home visits at least once a quarter in order to review action plans, budgets, program goals and objectives
• Make appropriate referrals to other agencies to help clients gain access to additional services they may need
• Assist in completing applications for mainstream benefits as needed
• Assist with intakes and front desk coverage when needed
• Keep accurate, up-to-date case notes on all clients including (but not limited to): contact dates, content, follow ups, referrals, and relevant forms
• Enter all client data accurately and in a timely manner to the HMIS database
• Provide data for quarterly and bi-annual reports as required by your supervisor by the indicated deadline
• Advocate on behalf of and with clients to landlords, employers, creditors, community agencies, etc.
• Attend community meetings and events that benefit the program and further the agency’s mission
• Participate in scheduled meetings with your supervisor to discuss client progress and quality assurance of services
• Participate actively in all agency staff meetings, team meetings and collaborative projects to support organizational goals and build professional skills
• Understand and follow clearly defined roles, responsibilities, and performance expectations to contribute effectively to departmental success
• Take initiative in learning new tasks and responsibilities that support team operations and build confidence in independent work
• Seek out opportunities for coaching, mentorship, and constructive feedback to support personal growth and career development
• Participate in professional development opportunities such as webinars, certifications, or cross-training within the organization
• All other duties as assigned

Benefits

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off, including vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays
• Retirement Plan Options with employer match (if applicable)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential counseling and support
• Professional Development Opportunities to help you grow in your career
• Flexible Work Schedules for eligible positions
• Mileage or Travel Reimbursement for approved work-related travel
• Additional wellness, recognition, or mission specific perks depending on role

What This Job Offers

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