Family Engagement Specialist

Salary: $48,661.34

Location: Upper Manhattan.

Position Summary: The Family Engagement Specialist (FES) is responsible for building trusting, collaborative relationships with families and to promote family well-being, strong parent- child relationships and ongoing learning and development. This role serves as the primary bridge between the Head Start program and the family and community resources.

Key Responsibilities:

Family Partnership and Goal Setting

• Conduct intake interviews and needs assessments with families to identify strengths, needs and interests
• Collaborate with families to develop a “Family Partnership Agreement” (FPA), setting specific, measurable short and long term goals (e.g.. housing stability, education and employment).
• Monitor progress towards goals through regular follow-ups and document outcomes.
• Conduct home visits (if needed) and parent conferences in coordination with teaching staff.

1. Community Resources &Referrals

• Act as a case manager to connect families with community resources, including housing assistance, food pantries, mental health services, employment services, employment training and emergency assistance.
• Follow-up on referrals to ensure families receive the necessary support.
• Maintain an up-to-date directory of community service agencies and partners.

1. ERSEA ( Eligibility, Recruitment, Selection, Attendance)

• Actively recruit eligible, including those with disabilities, to maintain full enrollment.
• Verify income and age eligibility according to Federal Head Start guidelines.
• Monitor daily student attendance, contact families when children are absent to identify barriers and develop attendance success plans.

1. Health and Wellness Compliance

• Endure all enrolled children have up to date physicals, dental exams, immunizations and screenings (vision and hearing) within program timelines.
• Assist families in establishing a “medical and dental” home for their children.
• Maintain accurate health records and coordinate with compliance manager regarding special dietary or medical needs.

1. Parent Engagement and Education

• Encourage and organize parent participation in the program, including volunteering in the classroom and participating in the Policy Council.
• Facilitate workshops on topics such as parenting skills, health and nutrition and child abuse prevention.

1. Documentation and Reporting

• Maintain accurate, confidential and up-to-date files for all assigned families.
• Input data into the program’s tracking software, Shine Insight, regarding family contracts, health data and case notes.
• Submit monthly reports on family outcomes, health status and enrollment numbers.

Qualifications:

Required: Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Human Services, Family Services or a related field.

Experience: 1-3 years working with families in a community based setting.

Certification: Family Development Credential within 18 months.

Skills and Competencies:

• Cultural Competency: Ability to communicate effectively and respectfully with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Communication: Strong verbal and communication skills. Bilingual preferred.
• Tech Ability: Proficient in Microsoft and ability to learn database softer, (Shine Insight)
• Caseload up to 40 families.
• Organization: Strong time- management skills and attention to detail regarding federal paperwork compliance.
• Occasional evening or weekend work may be required for parent events.

Benefits:

• Six weeks pre-determined paid vacation, PTO days 14 paid holidays
• Available Health insurance
• Pension available

Fort George Community Services is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees