Family Advocate

Job Summary The Family Advocate serves as a primary link between the Head Start program and families. This role is essential in building strong, collaborative relationships with parents and caregivers, empowering them to be actively involved in their child's education and development, and connecting them with resources to meet their family's needs. The Family Advocate works with families from diverse backgrounds, respecting their cultural values and strengths, and promoting family well-being and self-sufficiency within the community Essential Duties and Responsibilities --Establish and maintain positive, trusting relationships with Head Start families through regular communication, home visits, and participation in program activities. A minimum of three (3) home visits during the year will be required - Maintain a minimum of two (2) contracts per month with each family - Participates in family child reviews - Serve as a point of contact for families, providing information about program services, policies, and procedures - Conduct outreach to eligible families in the community to encourage enrollment and participation in Head Start - Support families in understanding and participating in all aspects of the Head Start program, including education, health, nutrition, and social services - Conduct comprehensive family needs assessments to identify strengths, challenges, and goals related to family well-being, education, employment, housing, and other areas - Work collaboratively with families to develop Family Partnership Agreements (FPAs) that outline family-identified goals and action steps - Provide ongoing support and follow-up to help families achieve their goals - Provide families with accurate and timely information and referrals to appropriate resources based on their identified needs - Assist families in navigating complex systems and accessing services - Establish and maintain relationships with local agencies and organizations to facilitate effective referrals Plan, facilitate, and co-facilitate parent education workshops and training sessions on topics relevant to family needs and interests, such as parenting skills, health and nutrition, financial literacy, and job readiness - Act as an advocate for families within the Head Start program and in the broader community - Work to address systemic barriers that may impact families? ability to thrive - Work collaboratively with all Head Start staff, including teachers, health staff, mental health professionals, and program administrators, to provide comprehensive family support services - Participate in team meetings and case conferences to share information and coordinate services for families - Maintain clear and effective communication with families and program staff - Maintain accurate and confidential records of family contacts, assessments, goals, referrals, and services provided in accordance with program policies and regulations - Participate in ongoing professional development activities to enhance knowledge and skills in areas such as cultural competency, family support, and community resources