Family Support Specialist III

About It Takes A Village Family of Schools (ITAV):
ITAV is a beacon for educating and loving Black children. We provide a comprehensive, culturally responsive social justice education and life-empowering social services. At ITAV learning is fun and transformative, teaching is innovative, and knowledge is not bound by the walls of the classroom. Students, staff, and families are empowered to be civically engaged and make positive change by addressing local, national, and global issues.  

Role:

The Family Engagement Specialist plays a vital role in supporting families and strengthening community connections. This role combines case management, community engagement, and resource coordination to ensure families receive individualized support that promotes wellness, academic success, and community development. Reporting to the Family Support Manager, the Family Engagement Specialist delivers culturally responsive services tailored to the needs of families served by the Village Wellness Center. This position requires an intermediate or expert-level understanding of Early Head Start, Head Start, and DFSS policies and rules to ensure alignment with regulatory standards and effective service delivery. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Case Management & Family Support:

  • Provide personalized case management services, assisting families in accessing essential resources (e.g., healthcare, childcare, financial services).

  • Conduct family assessments within 45 days of enrollment, provide relevant referrals, and document progress toward defined goals.

  • Maintain accurate and confidential records of all family interactions and referrals, ensuring compliance with organizational standards.

• Family & Community Engagement:

  • Build meaningful relationships with families through one-on-one meetings, phone consultations, and community events.

  • Encourage family participation in program activities, workshops, and goal-setting initiatives.

  • Facilitate individual and group discussions and activities with families and community members.

• Resource Coordination & Outreach:

  • Collaborate with local service providers to connect families with resources that promote holistic health, wellness, and academic success.

  • Support recruitment initiatives for prospective students and families, engaging with community partners and advocating for the mission of the Village Wellness Center.

• Workshops & Education:

  • Organize and facilitate orientations, workshops, and family education events focused on relevant topics.

  • Prepare and distribute timely health reminders and educational materials.

• Compliance & Reporting:

  • Ensure student health compliance by collecting physical exams, immunizations, and dental records.

  • Audit and maintain compliance of student files, participating in regular audits to ensure service quality.

  • Submit bi-monthly follow-up case notes for all service connections and referrals.

  • Stay informed and compliant with Early Head Start, Head Start, and DFSS policies and rules, integrating these standards into daily practices and program planning.

• Professional Development:

  • Engage in regular training and professional development to stay informed about best practices in family support and case management, including updates in Early Head Start, Head Start, and DFSS policies.

Location(s): Austin, Bronzeville, Oak Park, South Loop, and West Humboldt Park Communities  (Chicagoland)

Position Type: Full-Time
 

Required Education and Experience:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Family Studies, Human Services, or a closely related field.

• Experience: Minimum of 2-3 years in case management, family support services, or community outreach.

• Knowledge: Intermediate or expert-level understanding of Early Head Start, Head Start, and DFSS policies and rules is required.

• Skills:

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills with a dedication to culturally responsive, client-centered care.

  • Proficiency in documentation and reporting practices with a commitment to confidentiality.

• Additional Requirements:

  • Must have a valid driver’s license and automobile for travel within the service area.

  • Bilingual English/Spanish is strongly preferred.

  • Physical ability to perform tasks such as climbing stairs, walking, and standing.

Who You Are:

• You are a passionate advocate for family well-being and community empowerment, dedicated to advancing social justice and equity through transformative family support practices.

• A strategic thinker, you have a proven track record in enhancing student success and school performance.

• Your strength lies in building relationships and fostering collaboration within the educational community. 

• You are a creative and dynamic problem-solver who thrives in evolving educational landscapes. 

Why Join Us?

• Impact: Step into a pivotal role within our organization, where you'll serve as a cornerstone in the support system for hundreds of families.

• Growth: Join a forward-thinking organization committed to innovation and expansion, offering abundant opportunities for professional development and career advancement as a Family Support Specialist.

• Community: Work alongside a dedicated team of educators and staff who share your passion for making a positive impact in the lives of students and their families.

• Innovation: Contribute to the development and implementation of cutting-edge strategies and programs that integrate social justice, community engagement, and academic excellence into our model of family support.

Compensation and Benefits Package:

• Competitive, transparent payscale aligned with local public schools

• 80% employer contribution of medical benefits

• Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance

• 3% 401(k) company match

• Up to $10,000 in annual tuition assistance 

• Targeted, ongoing professional development

• International travel opportunities with students

• Opportunities for leadership, growth, and meaningful impact