Family Advocate

Job Title Family Advocate Reports To Chief Programming Officer & Education Director JOB OVERVIEW The Inspired Community Project (TICP) is seeking a Family Advocate to play a crucial role in fostering positive, supportive relationships between our families, the TICP specialized daycare program, and the community. This role involves providing guidance and support to families to enhance the well-being of children and ensure they have access to the resources and services they need for healthy development.

The Family Advocate works to strengthen family dynamics, promote early childhood education, and assist families in navigating social services that impact their children’s growth, development and success.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Family Support & Case Management Conduct initial Needs Assessments to identify the needs of families enrolled in the daycare program. Develop and support the implementation of family support plans based on individual needs, addressing areas such as parenting skills, child development, housing, food security, and health care.

Provide resources on topics such as positive parenting techniques, behavior management, child nutrition, early literacy, and strategies for supporting their child's learning and emotional growth. Provide ongoing support and check-ins with families; monitor progress and adjust plans as necessary. Assist families with navigating any challenges related to their child’s care or development, offering referrals to community resources when appropriate.

Provide resources on topics such as child nutrition, behavioral management, early literacy, and social-emotional learning. Provide assistance and support to families in crisis, such as dealing with a medical emergency, financial hardship, or family instability. Assist families in creating safety plans and finding resources for support, ensuring children’s safety and well-being.

Offer emotional support and help families access mental health or counseling services when necessary. Advocacy Facilitate communication between parents, daycare staff, and community organizations to address any concerns or barriers to a child's success. Educate parents on early childhood development as well as their educational and/or legal rights.

Support parents in their advocacy through attendance at important family meetings and/or appointments, including but not limited to IFSP, IEP and CSE meetings. Community Outreach & Resource Coordination Connect families to local services, including healthcare, housing, nutrition programs, and mental health services, ensuring they receive the support they need.

Develop partnerships with local service providers, schools, and organizations to expand the available resources for families. Lead or organize family engagement activities, parent workshops, and community events to support family development and involvement in the daycare community. Team Collaboration Work closely with all staff members, ensuring a cohesive approach to supporting families and children.

Share relevant information regarding family needs and concerns with the team (while maintaining confidentiality) to ensure that children’s developmental and emotional needs are met. Participate in regular staff meetings and case reviews to discuss strategies for supporting families and improving the daycare experience for all children.

Documentation & Reporting Maintain accurate records of family interactions, support services, and outcomes in accordance with organizational policies and confidentiality guidelines. Prepare reports on family progress, program effectiveness, and community needs to inform continuous improvement. Ensure compliance with local regulations, funding requirements, and any necessary documentation for grant or reporting purposes.

QUALIFICATIONS

Bilingual skills required, depending on the community served. At least 2 years of experience working with families and children, particularly in an early childhood or daycare setting. Experience with case management, family advocacy, or providing resources and support in a social service setting is preferred. Knowledge of child development principles and early childhood education practices is an asset.

POSITION DETAILS Full time position - hybrid (onsite & community based) Schedule : TBD in conjunction with Chief Programming Officer & Education Director Salary: $75,000/year Benefits: Medical - immediately eligible upon hire Additional benefits plans to be provided after a waiting period: Dental, Vision | Mental Health Wellness Benefits | Life Insurance | Health Saving Account (HSA) | Commuter Benefits PTO Benefits: Total 6 weeks [31 days] Discretionary PTO Days : [10 days - can roll over] 2 weeks PTO per calendar year.

Predetermined PTO Holidays : [11 Days - does not roll over] MLK Day, Presidents Day, Employee Appreciation Day (March), Autism Advocacy Day (April), Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Indigenous Peoples Day, Thanksgiving & Black Friday Predetermined PTO Weeks : [10 days - does not roll over] Last week of August & the week between Christmas and New Years