MFT Advocate

Catholic Charities West Michigan•Benton Harbor, MI

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The MiFamily Together (MFT) Advocate follows MFT philosophy, values, and contract requirements while providing responsive, flexible services tailored to families’ needs. The role delivers in-home services for up to 180 days, with approved extensions up to 270 days, serving Berrien and Van Buren Counties. MFT aims to reduce risks to children and prevent out-of-home care by supporting family safety and well-being. The Advocate engages family members, assesses strengths and needs, helps families access concrete supports and services, and provides direct assistance to strengthen protective factors and achieve Prevention Plan goals. The position also develops safety plans, collaborates with service providers and case managers, completes required documentation and follow-up visits, and may attend court hearings and provide testimony. The position is primarily office based but includes in-home and other work-related travel.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a human services or education field; alternatively, an associate’s degree or equivalent in a human services or education field, two years of prior work experience with children and/or families, and active pursuit of a bachelor’s degree to be obtained within six months of hire.
Knowledge of the Two-Generation (2Gen) framework and Motivational Interviewing techniques.
Knowledge and skills to provide services appropriate to families and children ages 0–18.
Knowledge and skills related to substance abuse and mental health disorders.
Knowledge of MFT philosophy and intervention strategies.
Ability to maintain a non-judgmental, positive attitude toward families in crisis and empower families to solve problems.
Ability to work in partnership with team members and service providers.
Sensitivity and responsiveness to cultural differences in the agency’s service population.
Ability to form mutually respectful partnerships with individuals and families and help them build skills and confidence in addressing issues.
Reliable transportation, a valid driver’s license, and a good driving record with zero work restrictions.
Personal auto insurance meeting legal requirements, with minimum bodily injury coverage of $250,000 per person/$500,000 per incident or $500,000 combined.
Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including irregular hours, evenings, holidays, and weekends as client needs require.
Participation in initial and ongoing training provided by MDHHS and the agency.
Submission to agency-approved background checks.

Responsibilities

Provide services in accordance with MFT contract requirements.
Deliver in-home services for up to 180 days, with approved extensions up to 270 days total.
Maintain face-to-face contact with families at contract-defined frequencies and according to individual needs.
Complete required MDHHS and MFT documentation within established timeframes.
Use Motivational Interviewing to engage family members, build rapport, and assess strengths, needs, culture, and values.
Conduct assessments with each family to understand prevention goals for each family member.
Help families access concrete supports and resources, including housing, transportation, employment, education, benefits, and other needs.
Provide direct services using the Two-Generation (2Gen) framework to strengthen protective factors, increase family well-being, and support goals in Prevention Plan Reports.
Create proactive and reactive safety plans to address risk factors.
Teach and model life skills, household management, parenting skills, and community resource navigation.
Refer caregivers and children to additional services and collaborate with service providers and referring case managers to support family goals.
Maintain flexible work schedules so appointments meet family needs and timely crisis intervention is possible.
Attend court hearings and provide testimony at the request of the family, MDHHS, or the referring PAFC case manager.
Attend training and meetings required by MDHHS and the agency.
Complete or attempt face-to-face follow-up visits three and six months after case closure to review sustained goals, safety planning, and further support needs.
Transport clients using a personal vehicle as needed and drive for agency business.
Perform other duties as assigned by a supervisor.