Family Support Specialist (FADSS)

FOUR OAKS FAMILY AND CHILDRENS SERVICES•Cedar Rapids, IA

27d

About The Position

Four Oaks is seeking a compassionate, motivated Family Support Specialist for its Strength-Based Family Support team. The specialist works directly with children and families in Linn, Johnson, Washington, Benton, and Iowa Counties, providing individualized support, guidance, and resources to help families achieve their goals and build independence. Services include home visits, skill development, advocacy, and community connections. The role focuses on helping families recognize their strengths, overcome barriers, and make positive changes. The specialist builds supportive relationships, partners with families on goals, assesses child development and family needs, connects families to resources, teaches practical life skills, coordinates care, tracks progress, and maintains accurate service documentation.

Requirements

Meet one of the following education or experience criteria: a bachelor’s degree in a social services-related field; a bachelor’s or associate’s degree in a human services-related field; or a high school diploma/GED and the equivalent of five years of full-time experience in social services or other human services delivery.
Be at least 23 years of age.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Effective problem-solving and coordination abilities.
Basic computer skills in a Microsoft Office environment.

Responsibilities

Build trusting relationships with children and families and help them identify strengths and meaningful goals.
Conduct monthly home visits and provide respectful, individualized encouragement, guidance, and support.
Partner with families to establish goals, identify challenges, and develop realistic steps toward success.
Complete assessments related to child development, family relationships, support systems, and brain health.
Connect families with community programs, services, and support systems that promote stability and independence.
Teach practical everyday skills, including financial management, employment readiness, problem-solving, and self-sufficiency.
Advocate for families as they navigate community resources, overcome barriers, and build confidence advocating for themselves.
Collaborate with community organizations, service providers, and public systems to expand opportunities and improve access to resources.
Help families work through conflicts, identify solutions, and strengthen their ability to navigate challenges.
Assist with care coordination, evaluate progress toward goals, and participate in discharge planning.
Maintain timely and accurate documentation of family contacts, services provided, progress, and community partnerships.