Job Description: Family Advocate
Position: Family Advocate
Department: Family Services
Reports to: Program Manager
Job Summary:
The Family Advocate will provide comprehensive support and advocacy services to families within the community, with a focus on promoting their overall well-being and achieving positive outcomes. The main objective of this role is to empower families to access necessary resources and services, while ensuring their rights and needs are met effectively. The Family Advocate will collaborate with various stakeholders to develop and implement individualized plans that address the specific needs of each family.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Conduct thorough assessments of families to identify their individual strengths, needs, and goals.
- Develop and implement action plans in collaboration with families, utilizing a strengths-based approach to address identified needs.
- Provide ongoing support, guidance, and advocacy to families, ensuring access to appropriate resources, services, and benefits.
- Facilitate communication and coordination between families and service providers, such as healthcare professionals, educational institutions, social service agencies, and community organizations.
- Assist families in navigating complex systems, including legal, financial, and social services, and guide them in accessing available resources.
- Conduct regular home visits to monitor progress, assess the safety and well-being of families, and provide necessary support and intervention.
- Provide crisis intervention and support during emergency situations, ensuring families are connected to appropriate emergency services.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including social workers, therapists, and case managers, to ensure holistic support and continuity of care for families.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation of all interactions, interventions, and service plans according to organizational and regulatory requirements.
- Participate in ongoing professional development activities to enhance knowledge and skills in the field of family advocacy and social work.
Qualifications and Skills:
- Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Human Services, or related field. Master's degree preferred.
- Minimum of [insert number] years of experience in providing direct support and advocacy services to families in a social service or human services setting.
- Strong knowledge of social service systems, community resources, and benefits available to families.
- Demonstrated ability to assess needs, develop individualized plans, and implement appropriate interventions.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to effectively communicate with diverse populations.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build rapport and trust with families.
- Knowledge of trauma-informed care and its application in working with families experiencing adversity.
- Ability to work collaboratively within a team and establish effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
- Proficient in computer applications and database management systems.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical standards in accordance with professional codes of conduct.
Note: This job description outlines the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. The incumbent may be required to perform other duties as assigned.