Family Services Advocate - Anne Arundel County Head Start

The Y in Central Maryland

5d•$21 - $24•Onsite

About The Position

The Y in Central Maryland is seeking a Family Services Advocate for its Head Start program in Anne Arundel County. This role is crucial for ensuring 100% enrollment in the Head Start program by developing and implementing a recruitment plan and maintaining a waiting list. The advocate will work directly within the community, engaging with families and parents/guardians to build trusting relationships and provide support services tailored to family goals. This includes identifying individual family strengths and needs, and ensuring parents have opportunities to enhance their skills for child development. The position also involves managing community partnerships, coordinating services, and reporting. Ultimately, this role contributes to the Y's mission by helping economically disadvantaged children and their families prepare for success in school and life.

Requirements

At least 2 years of experience working with adults in the Human Services or Social Work field.
An interest in the well-being and education of young children, enthusiasm, patience, good humor, good judgment and a good spirit.
The ability to clearly communicate and effectively listen to children, parents/guardians, members, and other Y associates.
All Y associates agree to abide by The Code of Conduct with Youth that sets clear expectations for associates and volunteers to ensure a safe and respectful environment for young people.
Associates and volunteers must complete training on child abuse prevention and comply with legal reporting requirements to safeguard youth.

Nice To Haves

Prior Head Start experience.
An associate’s degree in social science, human services or related field OR a bachelor’s degree in family studies, social work, human services or related field.

Responsibilities

Create and implement a Head Start recruitment plan for program participants to ensure 100% enrollment.
Establish and maintain a waiting list for the Head Start program.
Act as an advocate for families within the community, developing trusting relationships with families and parents/guardians.
Ensure support services are available to meet family goals.
Work with families on an individualized basis to identify family goals, strengths, and necessary services.
Ensure parents have opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge that aid in child development.
Manage community partnerships.
Coordinate services.
Complete reporting tasks.