Family Worker

POSITION SUMMARY

Centers, with a community provider contract within a school district, will employ a Family Worker at a ratio of 1 for every 45 children/families enrolled in the DOE Preschool Program. S/he will use the philosophy of the YMCA mission and the four core values of character development (caring, honesty, respect and responsibility) to develop and implement a program of the highest quality and to support and be a resource for the families and children the center serves.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Conduct outreach and meet with every family to engage them in an assessment process that identifies individual family needs. With family consent, locate and help facilitate access to community resources such as housing, food assistance, healthcare, mental health services, and educational supports. Maintain ongoing contact with families to monitor utilization of resources and ensure their needs are being addressed effectively. Reach out to each family at least three times per program year to provide consistent support and relationship building. Plan and coordinate family engagement initiatives in collaboration with the Center Director, including family/center events, parent training classes, and parent support groups. Work with the Director and staff to develop a parent group that encourages active involvement and supports child development. Assist in registering children into the District program and updating required documentation, including annual lease renewals. Collaborate closely with the District Nurse to follow up on required physicals, immunizations (e.g., flu, kindergarten entry), medication needs, referrals, and documentation for excluded children. Partner with the District Social Worker and other district personnel (e.g., Master Teacher) to attend meetings, support special needs referrals, and ensure communication and resource-sharing. Be in regular communication with administrative staff from both the District and the YMCA. Input and maintain accurate daily District attendance records. Assist families in identifying and resolving concerns that may impact their child's development or participation. Complete all required documentation and reports for the District, State Agencies, YMCA, and the Child Care Center. Participate in all staff meetings and professional development sessions as required. Follow all health, safety, and sanitation protocols consistently. Work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team to support overall program quality and family well-being.

R EQUIREMENTS

Associate degree, preferred but strong prior work experience and a High School Degree or its equivalent can be substituted. Experience working with families, particularly families with children (preschool age) Knowledge of social services, agencies and community resources. Experience or knowledge of the community the center is located in. Able to read, speak, write and communicate in the predominant language(s) of the enrolled families Computer proficiency and familiar with basic computer programs.

PHYSICAL REQURIEMENTS/WORKING CONDITIONS

Normal amounts of walking, standing, sitting, lifting, pushing, pulling, reading, typing, talking, listening, filing, able to lift a maximum of 20 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.