Family Engagement & Education Advocate

Start-Early; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 52,000 - 59,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive Health Plans

Diversity & Inclusion

Holistic Wellness Program

Professional Development Program

401k Contribution

Paid Volunteer Days

6 months paid parental leave

Job summary

Educare Chicago, a Start Early program on Chicago’s South Side, seeks a Family Support Specialist to engage families and promote school readiness. You will partner with Parents as Teachers, conduct home visits, and support families in accessing resources within a research-driven program.

Join Educare Chicago to empower parents as the primary nurturers and educators, ensuring strong family collaborations and developmental opportunities for children from birth to five.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work or related field is required.
• Gateways Family Services Credential or Social Work Credential within 18 months of hire.
• 2–4 years of experience working with families in Head Start or family support programs.
• 15 hours of continuing education annually.
• Knowledge of Head Start standards and Illinois TANF regulations.
• Ability to engage culturally diverse populations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Organized with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and perform physical tasks.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain meaningful, supportive relationships with families to promote outcomes.
• Collaborate with families to establish Family Partnership Agreements and monitor progress.
• Implement activities to promote parent–child relationships and engage parents in learning.
• Provide information on activities to support child learning.
• Design and monitor family development activities and encourage involvement.
• Conduct periodic home visits to assess family resources and needs.
• Track and document information in ChildPlus, including health and enrollment data.
• Coordinate with Health Coordinator to ensure health events are up to date.

Skills

Communication skills

Cultural responsiveness

Organizational skills

Engaging diverse populations

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Social Work or related field

Gateways Family Services Credential or Social Work Credential within 18 months

Job description

Educare Chicago, a Start Early program on Chicago’s South Side, seeks a Family Support Specialist to engage families and promote school readiness. You will partner with Parents as Teachers, conduct home visits, and support families in accessing resources within a research-driven program.

Join Educare Chicago to empower parents as the primary nurturers and educators, ensuring strong family collaborations and developmental opportunities for children from birth to five.