Family Service Advocate
Secaucus, NJ - USA
Job Summary
Mountain Projects is seeking a compassionate organized and dedicated Family Service Advocate to support children and families by connecting them with essential resources and services that promote stability self-sufficiency and school readiness. The Family Service Advocate serves as a vital link between families community partners and program staff ensuring families receive comprehensive support while meeting federal and program requirements.
Key Responsibilities
- Build trusting respectful relationships with enrolled families through regular communication and home visits.
- Conduct family needs assessments and collaborate with families to develop individualized family partnership goals.
- Connect families with community resources including housing assistance healthcare employment services education transportation food assistance and mental health resources.
- Maintain accurate and confidential family records in accordance with program policies and federal regulations.
- Assist families with enrollment eligibility attendance and required documentation.
- Monitor family progress toward established goals and provide ongoing support and follow-up.
- Collaborate with teachers health staff disabilities coordinators and community agencies to ensure comprehensive services for children and families.
- Support parent engagement by organizing workshops family events volunteer opportunities and leadership activities.
- Advocate for families while promoting self-sufficiency and empowerment.
- Ensure compliance with Head Start Performance Standards (if applicable) state regulations and Mountain Projects policies.
- Participate in staff meetings trainings and professional development opportunities.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Required
- Associate degree in Human Services Social Work Early Childhood Education Psychology Sociology or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Experience working with children and families in a community education or social services setting.
- Strong interpersonal communication and organizational skills.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and establish positive relationships with diverse populations.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and electronic record-keeping systems.
- Valid drivers license reliable transportation and ability to travel throughout the service area.
Preferred
- Bachelors degree in Human Services Social Work or a related field.
- Knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards and family engagement principles.
- Experience with case management or family advocacy services.
- Bilingual skills are a plus.
Knowledge Skills and Abilities
- Excellent communication and active listening skills.
- Strong problem-solving and case management abilities.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Knowledge of local community resources and referral processes.
- Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.
- Cultural competence and commitment to serving families with dignity and respect.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to travel to homes and community locations.
- Ability to sit stand walk bend and lift up to 25 pounds as needed.
- Ability to use standard office equipment including computers phones and printers.
Benefits
Mountain Projects offers a competitive benefits package which may include:
- Health dental and vision insurance
- Paid vacation sick leave and holidays
- Retirement plan
- Professional development and training opportunities
- Employee Assistance Program
- Opportunities for career growth
Equal Employment Opportunity
Mountain Projects is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race color religion sex national origin age disability veteran status or any other protected status under applicable law.