Description
Youth & Family Advocate
The Youth & Family Advocate provides support, advocacy, and resources to children, adolescents, and families facing challenges such as abuse, neglect, mental health issues, or educational difficulties. This role involves working closely with families to assess their needs, connect them with community resources, and provide emotional support. The advocate acts as a liaison between the family and service providers, ensuring that the family’s voice is heard and their needs are met.
Key responsibilities include crisis intervention, case management, and facilitating access to services such as housing, healthcare, and counseling. The advocate also collaborates with schools, social services, and legal systems to ensure the well-being and safety of children. Strong communication skills, empathy, and a deep understanding of child and family dynamics are essential. This position requires the ability to navigate complex situations with sensitivity and professionalism, advocating for the best outcomes for the youth and their families.
Requirements
The Youth & Family Advocate position typically requires a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or a related field, though equivalent experience may be considered. Candidates must have strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and build trust with both youth and families. Experience in crisis intervention, case management, or advocacy work is preferred.
An in-depth understanding of family dynamics, trauma-informed care, and child development is essential. The role requires the ability to collaborate effectively with schools, social services, healthcare providers, and legal systems to ensure the safety and well-being of children. Candidates should be skilled in problem-solving, resource navigation, and conflict resolution, and must be comfortable handling emotionally challenging situations.
Confidentiality and adherence to ethical guidelines are critical. Basic computer skills are necessary for maintaining case records and communication. Fluency in a second language may be preferred, depending on the community served. Additionally, a valid driver's license and willingness to travel for home visits or outreach may be required.
Benefits
To be discussed upon hire.
Responsibilities
Youth & Family Advocate - Responsibilities
- Provide direct support and advocacy for youth and families facing challenges such as abuse, neglect, mental health issues, or educational difficulties.
- Conduct assessments to identify family needs and develop individualized service plans.
- Connect families with appropriate community resources, such as counseling, housing, healthcare, and educational services.
- Offer crisis intervention and short-term counseling to stabilize families in urgent situations.
- Serve as a liaison between families and service providers, ensuring families' needs and concerns are addressed.
- Collaborate with schools, social services, legal systems, and healthcare providers to advocate for the best interests of children and their families.
- Assist families in navigating complex systems, such as child protective services or the legal system.
- Maintain accurate and confidential case documentation, including progress reports and service plans.
- Provide emotional support to children and families, helping them build resilience and cope with difficult circumstances.
- Facilitate family meetings and case conferences to ensure a coordinated approach to care and services.
- Advocate for policy changes or programs that better serve the needs of youth and families within the community.