Family Advocate – Emmanuel Family & Child Development Center
Location: Kansas City, MO
Reports to: Pre- K Cooperative t Director
Status: Full‑time, with flexible evening/weekend availability required once per month as needed.
About EFCDC
EFCDC empowers children and families living in poverty through high-quality early education, health services, and community advocacy.
The mission, vision, and core values of Emmanuel drive our commitment to families from birth through age 16.
Position Summary
The Family Advocate develops collaborative partnerships to empower families toward self-sufficiency. You will conduct needs assessments, connect families to resources, and support childcare program recruitment, enrollment, retention, health compliance, and parent engagement. The role requires adherence to Missouri Accreditation and childcare licensing.
Key Responsibilities
Family Recruitment, Enrollment & Retention
- Actively recruit families for EFCDC programs (Pre-k, ages 3 -5)
- Accurately complete and submit enrollment applications.
- Manage and update waiting lists.
- Explain program structure, benefits, and requirements (Head Start, Pre-K Co-Op, private pay).
- Ensure annual re-enrollment updates are collected.
Assessment, Planning & Data Management
- Conduct comprehensive Family Needs Assessments at intake.
- Co-develop Family Partnership Agreements with actionable goals.
- Utilize EFCDC’s data systems: input enrollment data, family interactions, attendance, health records, and PIR/In-Kind tracking.
- Monitor progress and prepare compliance reports.
Health & Compliance
- Schedule and liaise with health providers for screenings and immunizations.
- Track health services per Missouri Daycare Licensing (RSMo 210 CSR 3 & Head Start CFR 1304).
- Follow up to ensure referrals and treatments are completed.
- Maintain compliant children’s files and documentation.
Parent Engagement & Education
- Facilitate parent workshops, trainings, and literacy nights.
- Serve as liaison with the Parent Committee and support governance participation (per Missouri Accreditation and Head Start 45 CFR 1308).
- Plan and host family events (Parent Cafe, Monthly Parent Meetings, Literacy Night, Family Celebrations Miracle on 47th Street, etc.)
Home Visits & Community Referrals
- Conduct scheduled home visits
- Connect families to community resources (housing, mental health, financial aid, substance abuse prevention programs).
- Respond promptly to family concerns and support resolution.
Collaboration & Advocacy
- Work with community partners (clinics, housing agencies, local nonprofits).
- Support EFCDC’s advocacy efforts related to workforce development and trauma-informed services.
General Requirements
- Support tasks such as tracking attendance, completing reports, and assisting other staff as needed.
- Flexibility to work evenings and weekends.
- Comply with Missouri childcare licensing and accreditation standards.
- Maintain confidentiality and uphold EFCDC’s values: safety, equity, respect.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Child Development, Family Studies, Health Sciences, or related field preferred.
- Experience and Education in Social Work, Child Development, Family Studies, Health Sciences or related field required.
- Experience in licensed early childhood settings.
Skills & Competencies
- Strong interpersonal, multicultural communication, and organizational skills.
- Proficient with data entry systems (Brightwheel, ChildPlus, or similar).
- Empathetic, culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and family-centered approach.
Licenses & Physical Abilities
- Valid driver’s license and reliable insured vehicle.
- Ability to lift up to 25 lbs, and perform routine physical tasks.
- Comfortable conducting home visits and outreach in the community along with a partner
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $20.00 - $24.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
