Family Engagement Advocate

Upbring•Corpus Christi, TX

93d

About The Position

The Family Engagement Advocate creates, provides, and coordinates services and activities with families and communities to foster strength, healthy living, and overall well-being. The role supports families in areas including social services, health, nutrition, mental health, transitions, inclusion, and parent engagement. The advocate offers referrals to community resources, assists families in crisis, promotes each family's values and culture, and encourages family members to advocate for their children and family. The position supports Early Head Start and Head Start enrollment and family engagement, provides case management and referrals, conducts home visits, and collaborates with staff, parents, and community partners. It also maintains accurate program data and follows applicable company policies, child-care standards, and Head Start regulations. Travel of up to 50% may be required.

Requirements

Associate's degree in Social Services, Human Services, Family and Child Development, Early Childhood Education, or a related field.
Ability and willingness to obtain a Family Development Credential (FDC) within 12 months of hire.
One year of Early Head Start and/or Head Start-related experience, or experience providing comprehensive services to children and families.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Family and Child Development, Early Childhood Education, or a related field.
Three years of direct related experience, training, and skill assisting parents of young children to advocate for their families.
Family Development Credential (FDC).
Experience with the Child Plus data management system.
Bilingual in Spanish and English, based on the service population.

Responsibilities

Maintain funded enrollment levels in accordance with Head Start Performance Standards and Upbring policies.
Provide parent orientation so families understand the Early Head Start or Head Start enrollment process.
Perform Eligibility, Recruitment, Selection, Enrollment, and Attendance (ERSEA) duties, ensuring ongoing monitoring, compliance, and effective implementation.
Provide ongoing case management through collaboration and referrals to special programs and services, including counseling, emergency assistance, and crisis intervention.
Follow up on and monitor referrals supporting children's health care and status according to Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) requirements.
Conduct home visits and follow up with families on parenting, child development, attendance, and wellness checks.
Collaborate with staff, parents, and community partners to support family engagement and children's needs.
Ensure Program Information Report (PIR) data is current and accurate in the data management system.
Comply with company policies and procedures, Child Care Minimum Standards, and HSPPS regulations and standards; ensure the health and safety of children and support their overall well-being.
Use discretion and maintain confidentiality in matters related to families, staff, and Head Start/Early Head Start programs.
Do not use or impose corporal punishment or other forms of child maltreatment as a method of disciplining children.