Family Advocate - Mt.Vernon

Inspire Development Centers•Mount Vernon, WA

7h•$45,594 - $60,798•Onsite

About The Position

The Family Advocate position is responsible for ensuring families meet eligibility criteria to receive social and health-related program services. Within an assigned caseload, the Family Advocate will interview clients individually, in family, or in other small groups to determine child and family needs, support and mobilize inner capacities, and obtain community resources to improve social, health, and mental health functioning, as required by Head Start and/or ECEAP Performance Standards. The role also involves participating in the development of Individual Education Plans (IEP) and Individual Family Service Plans (IFSP). Inspire Development Centers provides early childhood education and social services to over 3,100 children across Washington State, employing over 1,000 staff on a $52 million annual budget. The organization operates under various federal and state funded programs, including Regional Head Start (RHS), Migrant Seasonal Head Start (MSHS), Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP), and Early Head Start (EHS), all of which have specific regulations and stipulations that must be adhered to. A significant portion of the children's first language is Spanish, and Inspire has a history of adapting to the changing needs of its families and communities over the past 40 years.

Requirements

Associate’s or higher degree with the equivalent of 30 quarter credits in adult education, human development, human services, family support, social work, early childhood education, child development, psychology or another field directly related to job responsibilities. The 30 credits may be included in the degree or in addition to the degree; or a credential or certification in social work, human services, family services, counseling or a related field (Family Development Credential); OR High School Diploma or General Educational Development (GED) certificate and must obtain Initial/CDA/AA in ECE or related field.
English/Spanish bi-lingual, speaking/reading/writing fluency.
Extensive knowledge and understanding of child development theories and practices.
Experience working in a federally funded and regulated environment.
Experience in policy and procedure processes.
Experience in facilitating groups.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills.
Experience in family concerns and risk management.
Understanding of the interrelationships between services and systems.
Ability to learn new tasks quickly and efficiently.
Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and meet deadlines.
Ability to gather and analyze data for reports.
Strong customer service focus.
Ability to work with culturally diverse population.
Proficiency with personal computer, including Microsoft Office.
Accurate data management, documentation and recordkeeping skills.
At least two (2) years of work-related experience.
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Valid Washington State driver’s license.
Must provide a yearly driving abstract.
Must maintain acceptable driving history.
Ability to travel to perform job duties and responsibilities.
Must pass initial and periodic background check.
MMR immunization record or proof of immunity.
Subject to drug and/or alcohol testing per IDC Drug and Alcohol policy.
Must pass initial and periodic employee health clearance (present it within forty-five (45) days of employment).
Current Food Handler card (obtain the training within thirty (30) days of employment).
Current First Aid / CPR cards (obtain the training within thirty (30) days of employment).
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV / AIDS) training (obtain the training within thirty (30) days of employment).
Blood Borne Pathogen training (obtain the training within thirty (30) days of employment).
Must sign a Confidentiality Agreement.
Must complete and/or all required training related to the position.

Nice To Haves

BA in ECE and/or related field
Previous Head Start / ECEAP experience, working knowledge of Performance Standards.
Knowledge of federal, state and private social service programs available to agriculture worker population.

Responsibilities

Establish and maintain an ongoing recruitment process to ensure enrollment of eligible children under different funding sources, including children with disabilities.
Verify eligibility of children and families, maintain an up-to-date waiting list, and select/enroll children based on established criteria. Input all family and child data into database systems.
Review daily attendance and enter results into database systems. Contact parents and assist with attendance plans if necessary.
Perform strength and needs assessments and develop progress goals with participating families to provide systematic assistance. Make ongoing entries in child/parent files regarding progress, services, and concerns. Conduct home visits as stated on the Service Plan.
Develop local community partnerships to maintain resources for families. Contact program participants to provide information about the center and other available services (employment, education, welfare, health, legal, housing, trainings). Maintain communication between the center and the community.
Contact parents using various media to motivate and interest them in attending PCC and Parent meetings. Follow up on parent trainings requested. Provide transportation to PC Representatives as needed for Policy Council meetings.
Prepare and present training for parents and staff on relevant component areas. Participate in center-level meetings (staffing, core team, staff, transitioning). Organize local trainings based on local interests in skill-building.
Ensure all processes for Mental Health and Disabilities are followed and implemented. Make referrals for mental health and disabilities and assist families in accessing services. Review ASQ screening scores to ensure referrals are not missed and verify correct screening tools are used. Schedule mental health observations, consultations, trainings, and orientation services. Participate in the development of IEP and IFSP. Coordinate and implement Severe Disability staffing as needed.
Complete enrollment health packets and basic non-invasive health screenings. Perform immunization reviews and follow up on Well Child and Dental exams. Make health, dental, and nutrition referrals and schedule corresponding staffing. Dispense medications as authorized and treat minor injuries and illnesses.
Show interest in furthering professional growth by attending staff meetings, workshops, trainings, and seminars.
Contribute to procedures and activities that foster the contribution of in-kind funds by requesting goods, services, cash donations, and encouraging professionals, community members, and parents to volunteer time.
Maintain confidentiality of program and client-related information at all times.