Family Engagement Advocate

Upbring • Wharton, TX

128d

About The Position

The Family Engagement Advocate creates, provides, and coordinates services and activities with families and communities that foster strength, healthy living, and overall well-being. They assist in areas such as Social Services, Health, Nutrition, Mental Health, Transitions, Inclusion, and Parent Engagement. The role involves offering referrals to community resources, assisting families in crisis, and promoting each family's values and culture. The Family Engagement Advocate encourages all family members to become advocates for their children and family.

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 Family Development Credential (FDC) within 12 months of the date of hire
• One (1) year experience in Early Head Start and/or Head Start-related experience OR 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 (3) years direct related experience, training, and skill assisting the parents of young children to advocate for their families
• Family Development Credential (FDC)
• Experience with Child Plus data management system
• Bilingual in Spanish and English based on service population

Responsibilities

• Maintain funded enrollment levels in accordance with Head Start Performance Standards and Upbring Policies
• Provide parent orientation to ensure families are informed about the enrollment process for Early Head Start or Head Start
• Perform duties related to Eligibility, Recruitment, Selection, Enrollment, and Attendance (ERSEA), ensuring ongoing monitoring, compliance, and effective implementation
• Provide ongoing case management services through collaboration by utilizing the referral process to help children and others use special programs and services, including counseling, emergency assistance, or crisis intervention
• Ensure on-going follow up and referrals are initiated and monitored to support child health care and status according to the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) requirements
• Conduct home visits and follow-up with families, assisting in various areas like parenting, child development, attendance, and wellness checks
• Collaborate with staff, parents, and community partners to support family engagement and children's needs
• Ensure all Program Information Report (PIR) data is current and accurate in the data management system
• Comply with company policies, procedures, Child Care Minimum Standards, and HSPPS regulations and standards; always ensure the health and safety of each child in care and support the overall well-being of children
• Use discretion and confidentiality in all matters related to families, staff, and Head Start/Early Head Start programs as appropriate
• Staff must not use/impose corporal punishment or other forms of child maltreatment as a method to discipline children

Benefits

• Competitive PTO & paid holidays
• Health, dental, vision insurance & more
• 403(b) Plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• Discounted Gym Memberships

What This Job Offers

• Education Level: Associate degree