Family Engagement Specialist

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.