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Job description
Family Advocate
Full-Time | Our House Early Head Start
Starting Range: $ , Sign on Bonus $1500 after 90 days of Employment
Help Strengthen Families and Support Early Childhood Success
Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake is seeking a compassionate and motivated Family Advocate to support families enrolled in the Our House Early Head Start Program . In this role, you will partner with families of children from birth to age three, helping them access resources, develop goals, overcome barriers, and build strong foundations for long-term success.
The Family Advocate serves as a trusted resource and connector, providing support through home visits, family assessments, referrals, parent education, and community partnerships while ensuring compliance with Head Start Performance Standards and program requirements.
What You'll Do
Recruit and enroll eligible families into Early Head Start services
Conduct home visits and family assessments to identify strengths, needs, and goals
Develop individualized service plans and support families in achieving self-sufficiency goals
Connect families with community resources and supportive services through referrals and follow-up
Provide guidance and education related to parenting, child development, health, and family well-being
Advocate for families and help them navigate community and social service systems
Monitor child development and assist with referrals for developmental screenings and specialized services when needed
Maintain and update a comprehensive network of community resources and service providers
Collaborate with program staff and community partners to ensure children and families receive appropriate support
Maintain accurate case notes, records, and family files
Enter and manage participant information within program databases and tracking systems
Prepare monthly reports, statistical data, and required program documentation
Ensure compliance with Head Start Performance Standards, licensing regulations, and organizational policies
Participate in staff meetings, case reviews, training, and professional development activities
Work collaboratively with teachers, home visitors, community agencies, and program leadership
Perform other duties as assigned to support program operations
What We're Looking For
Education & Experience Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Social Work, Human Development, Child & Family Studies, or a related field required
Minimum of one year of experience in family services, home visiting, counseling, advocacy, case management, or a related field
Experience working with families with young children preferred
Certifications & Requirements CPR, First Aid, and Universal Precautions Certification
Parents as Teachers (PAT) Certification
Valid Maryland driver's license and current auto insurance
CJIS criminal background clearance required
Pre-employment physical examination and tuberculosis screening required
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to build trusting relationships with families from diverse backgrounds
Knowledge of community resources and family support services
Strong organizational, documentation, and time-management skills
Effective problem-solving and decision-making abilities
Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and electronic case management systems
Compassion, empathy, and respect for individuals with diverse experiences and needs
Travel Requirements Up to 75% local travel
Regular home visits required
Reliable transportation required
Mileage reimbursement available
Physical Requirements
Light Physical Demand Ability to lift up to 20 pounds occasionally
Regular standing, walking, sitting, and community-based work activities
Work Environment Combination of office, home visiting, and community settings
Primarily local travel throughout the service area
Low to moderate noise levels typical of office and family service environments
Why Join Goodwill? Make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families
Work for a mission-driven organization committed to strengthening communities
Opportunity to build lasting community partnerships
Professional development and growth opportunities
Competitive benefits package
Learn more about careers and benefits:
EOE - Including Disability/Veterans
Worksite address
brooklyn, MD, 21225, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.