Family & Community Advocate

Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation•White Swan, WA

9d•Onsite

About The Position

The Family and Community Advocate position is an integral part of the Social Services team at Yakama Nation Head Start. This role encompasses various responsibilities within the Eligibility, Recruitment, Selection, Enrollment, and Attendance (ERSEA) service area. The primary duties include managing the application intake process, assessing eligibility according to established guidelines, and accurately documenting enrollment, health, and family information. Additionally, the position involves compiling and reporting attendance data, utilizing an online database system for data entry, maintenance, and reporting. Recruitment efforts to maintain enrollment and foster community engagement are also expected. They collaborate with families to establish personalized family goals based on identified needs, while also guiding them towards relevant services available within the community. They must effectively communicate and collaborate with diverse families, demonstrating empathy, cultural sensitivity, and professionalism in all interactions.

Requirements

Minimum of an Associate Degree in related field and one year of experience with Head Start or social services program with direct interactions with families and children.
Must have experience working with children.
Must have current First Aid/CPR care or able to obtain one within 6 months of hire.
Must have current food handler's card or able to obtain one within 6 months of hire.
Must have a credential or certification in social work, human services, family services, counseling or a related field or ability to obtain within 18 months of hire.
Must pass a pre-employment background check.
Must possess a valid Washington State Driver's License with the ability to obtain a Yakama Nation Driving permit.
Required to pass a pre-employment drug test.
Knowledge of Yakama Nation Personnel Policies and Procedures.
Knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards (45 CFR 1300s) and the Head Start Act.
Knowledge of the Yakama Nation culture and language.
Knowledge of Family Service competencies.
Ability to maintain standards of professionalism in dress, appearance, attitude, and presentation at all times.
Abilities in communication skills, attention to detail, and to integrate with other team members.
Ability to work with all staff and parents in a professional manner.
Ability to maintain standards of confidentiality and work ethic.
Ability to read, write, and follow general oral and written instructions.
Ability to communicate effectively with children and adults.
Ability to work with personal computer.
Ability to utilize an electronic database for entry and reporting.
Ability to operate a telephone, copier, fax, and laminator.
Ability to collaborate with outside agencies/organization for services to families.
Ability to travel to/from centers and family homes.

Nice To Haves

Preference will be given to past/present Head Start parents who meet the qualifications.
Preferred Bachelor Degree and two years of experience with a Head Start or social services program with direct interactions with families and children.
Enrolled Yakama Preference, but all qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

Effectively communicates Yakama Nation Head Start's mission, values, and policies to both staff and clients, demonstrating commitment to these principles throughout daily duties.
Attends all mandatory trainings and meetings to stay updated on program developments and contribute to continuous improvement.
Actively participates in regular planning sessions with all staff members, playing a crucial role in the creation and maintenance of a high-quality early childhood education program.
Maintains records of children's school-related information, ensuring accuracy and confidentiality.
May occasionally monitor children in the classroom for brief periods, ensuring a safe and nurturing learning environment.
Regularly engages in proactive communication with parents, encouraging their active involvement in the center and promoting attendance at school events.
Provide comprehensive assistance to families throughout the Eligibility, Recruitment, Selection, Enrollment, and Attendance process in Head Start, ensuring their seamless engagement with the program.
Monitor and review enrollment applications, verifying the accuracy and completeness of submitted information.
Thoroughly assess and certify eligibility based on defined program guidelines, ensuring compliance and adherence to established standards.
Participate in recruitment events, occasionally outside regular work hours, to actively promote and attract prospective families to the Head Start program.
Maintain up-to-date and well-organized records of applications, enrollments, and child-related documentation, ensuring accessibility and confidentiality.
Promptly communicate with parents, providing them with timely updates on the status of their application and any necessary follow-up requirements.
Conduct diligent monitoring of attendance records and proactively follow up with staff and families to ensure compliance with program requirements.
Provide assistance to families in the Family and Community Partnership component area, guiding them in the identification and establishment of meaningful goals.
Routinely monitor and reassess family goals, facilitating updates to the Family Partnership Agreements to reflect evolving needs and aspirations.
Offer support to families by facilitating referrals for appointments, services, transportation, and other necessary resources essential for the well-being of both the family and the child.
Demonstrate meticulous attention to detail in compiling and organizing family and child information, ensuring accurate and timely completion of reports such as the Program Information Report (PIR) and other relevant documentation.
Other duties as assigned