Family Advocate
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, implementing, and evaluating parent-related activities at the center level. The position provides direct health and social services, connects families with community resources, collaborates with program staff to deliver integrated services, supports parent involvement and advocacy, and maintains accurate case-management records. The Family Advocate protects family confidentiality, maintains professional knowledge, and applies safety practices, including participating in emergency drills and assisting with child evacuations.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED.
- Meet one of the stated qualification pathways: a credential, certificate, or degree in social work, human services, family services, counseling, or a related field; or one year of work experience in health and/or social services 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 if required under the applicable experience-based pathway.
Responsibilities
- Conduct enrollment procedures, identify immediate needs, gather child health and development information, and conduct home visits.
- Assess family strengths and needs and help families set and achieve goals.
- Conduct child health screenings and provide medication to sick children according to OCDC protocols.
- Refer families to community agencies for emergency assistance, adult education, job training, health, mental health, and dental services, including helping establish medical and dental homes.
- Follow up with families about services received and build partnerships with community agencies to secure needed resources.
- Participate in recruitment activities, coordinate and facilitate case-management meetings, and collaborate with staff on integrated services.
- Follow up with families regarding absenteeism to support child attendance and participate in transition planning and activities.
- Assist the supervisor with approval of enrollment documentation and consult with the Family and Health Services Supervisor to develop Care Plans.
- Observe classrooms to ensure safe, healthy environments and provide staff training as needed.
- Help plan, deliver, and evaluate parent involvement activities, including parent events and parent education; encourage parent participation.
- Provide limited translation and interpretation related to OCDC services.
- Compile, document, and sort program and case-management data; enter data, run reports using the electronic tracking system, and complete monthly reports for the supervisor.
- Promote community understanding of the program and participate in and encourage parent participation in local advocacy and support networks.
- Encourage and empower parents to influence health and social-services systems of care.
- Follow OCDC's Confidentiality Policy and report discrepancies relating to family files or other information to the Family and Health Services Supervisor.
- Attend trainings, network, and read professional publications to maintain technical and professional knowledge.
- Comply with agency safety standards, support a safe environment, report hazardous conditions or injuries promptly, and participate in emergency drills and child evacuations.
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.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
