Child Advocate (Part-Time)
- Reports to: Program Director
- Schedule: Afternoons and evenings, with every other weekend availability to support children and families. The schedule may vary based on program and family needs.
Position Summary
The Child Advocate provides direct care, supervision, and developmental support to children while their parents or caregivers participate in Divine Konnections programming, appointments, support groups, meetings, and community activities.
This position supports families served through Annie's House Teen Parent Program, the Hope & Healing Center, and other Divine Konnections programs throughout the community. The Child Advocate creates a safe, engaging, and nurturing environment where children feel supported while parents receive advocacy and housing.
This position requires flexibility, strong communication skills, and a passion for working with children and families from diverse backgrounds.
Position Funding
This position is currently funded through a grant with funding secured through December 2026. Divine Konnections is committed to the long-term success of this role and fully intends to continue the position beyond the current grant period by securing additional grant funding and other sustainable funding sources.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Child Care & Supervision
- Provide attentive, compassionate, and developmentally appropriate care for infants, toddlers, and young children.
- Ensure the safety and well-being of children at all times.
- Supervise children during programming, support groups, appointments, workshops, meals, naptime, and community outings.
- Assist children with daily routines including diapering, toileting, feeding, bottle preparation, meals, snacks, naps, and transitions.
- Comfort children experiencing emotional distress while using trauma-informed and positive behavior support techniques.
Child Development
- Plan and facilitate engaging, age-appropriate activities including:
- Sensory play
- Reading and storytelling
- Music and movement
- Arts and crafts
- Outdoor play
- Educational games
- Social-emotional learning activities
- Encourage children's cognitive, emotional, social, and physical development through positive interactions.
Family Support
- Build positive relationships with children and caregivers.
- Communicate professionally with parents regarding their child's care, activities, achievements, and any concerns.
- Support families participating in Divine Konnections programming with compassion, respect, and professionalism.
Community-Based Services
- Provide childcare support at:
- Annie's House Teen Parent Program
- Hope & Healing Center
- Community partner locations
- Family homes (when appropriate)
- Community events and outreach activities
- Safely transport yourself between program locations as needed.
Health & Safety
- Maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming childcare environment.
- Sanitize toys, changing areas, childcare equipment, and play spaces according to health and safety standards.
- Follow all emergency procedures and organizational safety policies.
- Immediately report accidents, injuries, safety concerns, or suspected abuse or neglect following Minnesota Mandated Reporter laws and Divine Konnections policies.
Documentation
- Maintain accurate documentation as required, including:
- Attendance
- Daily care activities
- Meals and snacks
- Diaper changes (when applicable)
- Incident and injury reports
- Developmental observations
- Protect the confidentiality of all children and families served.
Team Collaboration
- Collaborate with Family Advocates, Managers, and other staff to provide coordinated family-centered services.
- Participate in staff meetings, training, and professional development opportunities.
- Assist with family events, workshops, and community outreach activities.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED.
- Experience working with children, youth, or families.
- Experience working within culturally diverse communities.
- Ability to build positive, trusting relationships with children and families.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
- Must successfully pass a criminal background check.
- Valid Minnesota driver's license.
- Reliable personal vehicle with current insurance.
- Clean driving record.
- Ability to travel between multiple locations.
- CPR and First Aid Certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).
Preferred Qualifications
- Coursework or certification in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Human Services, Social Work, or a related field.
- Experience working with infants and toddlers.
- Experience supporting families experiencing homelessness, housing instability, domestic violence, or other trauma.
- Knowledge of child development and positive behavior guidance.
- Knowledge of trauma-informed and culturally responsive care practices.
Physical Requirements
This position requires frequent physical activity, including:
- Lifting and carrying children up to 40 pounds.
- Sitting on the floor while interacting with children.
- Kneeling, bending, squatting, crawling, and standing for extended periods.
- Actively participating in indoor and outdoor play.
- Moving frequently between childcare spaces and community locations.
- Working both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.
Work Environment
The Child Advocate works in a variety of settings including:
- Annie's House Teen Parent Program
- Hope & Healing Center
- Community partner locations
- Family homes (when appropriate)
- Outdoor community events
- Divine Konnections family programming
Evening and weekend work is expected based on family & programming schedules.
Why Join Divine Konnections?
At Divine Konnections, we believe strong families create strong communities. As a Child Advocate, you will play a vital role in supporting children while empowering parents to participate in services that strengthen their families. Our team values compassion, collaboration, cultural responsiveness, and a commitment to helping every child thrive.
If you are passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families, we encourage you to apply.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Pay: $20.00 per hour
License/Certification:
- CPR Certification (Preferred)
Shift availability:
- Day Shift (Required)
- Night Shift (Required)
Ability to Commute:
Work Location: In person
