Family Mentor

Children & Families of Iowa•Davenport, IA

About The Position

The Family Mentor provides one-on-one mentorship, encouragement, and consistent support to families affected by substance use who have children under age five and are involved in the child welfare system. The role works in partnership with Iowa’s Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), helping families navigate the child welfare system and access services in their plans. The position includes regular home visits, crisis support, documentation, data reporting, participation in trainings and meetings, and collaboration with families, HHS staff, service providers, and legal partners. Regular travel and in-home visits are part of the role.

Requirements

Personal experience with prior involvement in the child welfare system.
Deep empathy and understanding of families facing substance use challenges.
Familiarity with local community resources, or willingness to learn about and connect with providers.
Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team.
Willingness to travel regularly.
Ability to maintain strong boundaries and a high level of confidentiality.
Effective communication, writing, and interpersonal skills.
High school diploma or equivalent.
Experience with data entry and accurate record keeping.
Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and acceptable driving record.
Ability to meet all training and licensing requirements.
Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office and case management systems.
Physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally and navigate in-home visits.
Strong reasoning, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities.

Nice To Haves

Experience writing reports and/or testifying in court.

Responsibilities

Provide individualized support and mentorship to families with children under age five who are impacted by substance use and involved in the child welfare system.
Conduct weekly home visits and share case management duties with HHS workers.
Maintain confidentiality and comply with mandated reporting standards.
Help families access services outlined in their child welfare plans.
Attend required HHS and START Program trainings and community-building activities.
Offer crisis support and guidance as needed.
Maintain timely documentation and submit weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly data and reports.
Build strong working relationships with families, HHS staff, service providers, and legal partners.
Participate in local, county, and statewide meetings and maintain active knowledge of community resources.
Assist with data collection and grant-required reports.