Family Advocate

Oregon Child Development Coalition • Mulino, OR

4d • $19 - $24

About The Position

The Family Advocate provides program case management services to children and families, including health, social services, literacy, and training, in compliance with Head Start Performance Standards and federal and state regulations. The role also assists with planning, implementation, and evaluation of parent-related activities at the center level.

The position works directly with families, connects them to community resources, collaborates with program staff to deliver integrated services, supports parent involvement, maintains accurate records, and advocates for children and families. It also protects confidential information, maintains professional knowledge, and follows safety practices, including participating in emergency drills and helping evacuate children.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• A credential, certificate, or degree in social work, human services, family services, counseling, or a related field; alternatively, qualifying work experience may satisfy the education and experience pathways described in the posting.
• One year of work experience in a health and/or social services field or in a position combining administrative and customer support duties, or two years of work experience in an environment working with children and/or families.
• Complete OCDC’s Family Advocate Certificate Level 1 within 12 months of hire.

Responsibilities

• Conduct enrollment procedures, identify and address immediate needs, gather child health and development information, conduct home visits, and assess family strengths and needs to support family goal-setting.
• Conduct child health screenings and provide medication to sick children in accordance with OCDC medication administration protocols.
• Refer families to community agencies for emergency assistance, adult education, job training, health, mental health, and dental services, including helping ensure establishment of medical and dental homes.
• Follow up with families about services provided by community agencies and build partnerships with agencies to secure resources that meet child and family needs.
• Collaborate with program staff to implement the program work plan and deliver integrated comprehensive services.
• Participate in recruitment activities, coordinate and facilitate case management meetings, and follow up with families about absenteeism to support child attendance.
• Participate in planning and implementing transition activities that support families.
• Assist the supervisor with approval of enrollment documentation for family and health services, and consult with the Family and Health Services Supervisor to develop care plans before children begin the program.
• Observe classrooms to ensure safe, healthy environments and provide staff training as needed.
• Participate in planning and delivering parent events, support parent education, and encourage parents to participate in program activities.
• Provide limited translation and interpretation related to communication about OCDC services.
• Compile, document, and organize data related to program services and individual family case management; enter data, run reports using the electronic tracking system, and complete monthly reports for the supervisor.
• Promote community understanding of the program’s mission, goals, objectives, and services; participate in and encourage parent involvement in local advocacy and support networks.
• Encourage and empower parents to influence systems of care for health and social services.
• Follow OCDC’s Confidentiality Policy and report discrepancies relating to family files or other information to the Family and Health Services Supervisor.
• Maintain technical and professional knowledge by attending training, networking, and reading professional publications.
• Comply with agency safety standards, support a safe environment, immediately report unsafe or hazardous conditions and injuries, and participate in emergency drills and evacuation of children.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance for eligible employees working 20 or more hours per week.
• Retirement plan with employer contribution.
• Paid time off, sick leave, holidays, and paid leave programs.
• Employer-paid life and disability coverage, with voluntary options available.
• Flexible Spending Accounts for healthcare and dependent care.
• Employee Assistance Program and wellness resources.
• Optional pet insurance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED