Family Advocate

_Head Start Family Advocate, Newcastle_
**About us**
- Midcoast Maine Community Action is a non-profit human services agency, located in the southern mid coast area of Maine. For 50 years, MMCA has worked to benefit and support individuals and families in the communities we serve through an array of programs and services that include early childhood education (Head Start/Early Head Start); WIC nutrition counseling; emergency housing, rental, and utility assistance; parenting education; and health insurance marketplace navigation. Partnering with other local and regional organizations, we are helping people connect with resources that promote health, quality of life, education and economic independence. As one of 1100 community action agencies across the US, we are changing people lives and making our communities better places to live_
- If you enjoy working with young children and their families, consider working as HEAD START FAMILY ADVOCATE._

The Family Advocate works with families of enrolled Head Start and Early Head Start students to help establish goals for personal, educational and vocational growth; identify problems and needs affecting or inhibiting the realization of these goals; and develop plans toward their achievement. Other responsibilities include: conducting comprehensive family intakes and assessments to determine risk factors for families; assisting family members in obtaining appropriate community services; and advocating on their behalf when needed.

This person will perform periodic progress reviews to ensure services are being utilized in an effective and timely manner by the families and are appropriate for addressing family needs, and will work with families to make changes as necessary. The Family Advocate also participates in community outreach activities designed to assist with recruiting families and students to the Head Start and Early Head Start program. **The position will be located in the Newcastle Head Start center and will also work with Head Start families in the Whitefield School center.**

This position is full-time [37.5] and benefits eligible. MMCA offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health and dental insurance; employer-paid life and disability insurance; financial support for professional development; paid vacation and sick/personal time; 13 paid holidays plus 2 floating holidays; and a 403(b) retirement plan with agency contribution after one year.

Rate of pay will be dependent upon experience and other qualifications.

**QUALIFICATIONS**:

- Bachelors degree in social work or related human service field required; LSW or MSW preferred.
- 3 years of prior experience in a related position, including experience in social service case management and supportive counseling, preferably working with low-income families.
- Must understand and maintain current knowledge of relevant laws and regulations pertaining to care of children and must also be familiar with the various state and local social services and resources available to low-income families.
- Proficiency with computers related software for data entry and recording of case notes.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential.
- Must have a client-centered focus and a commitment to providing quality services in a helpful and professional manner.
- Ability to work as part of an integrated service team as well as independently with mínimal supervision.
- Ability to organize paperwork to meet deadlines.
- **Other Requirements**:_
- Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license, adequate automobile insurance per state standards, and access to reliable transportation; compliance with MMCA policies pertaining to safe vehicle operation required.
- Persons offered employment must also provide a physician’s health statement, immunization records, and TB screening.

Please forward a cover letter, resume with complete work history, and contact information for three professional references to Mid coast Maine Community Action.

**Midcoast Maine Community Action is an Equal Opportunity Employer.**

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, ethnicity, national origin, ancestry, gender or gender identity, sexual orientation or preference, age, physical or mental disability, or veteran status.

All applicants shall receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender or gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, veteran status, o physical or mental disability.

Pay: $19.50 - $22.50 per hour

**Benefits**:

- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance

Schedule:

- Day shift
- Monday to Friday

**Education**:

- Bachelor's (required)

**Experience**:

- case m