Family Support Worker

Position Summary:  We are looking for an experienced community-based human services worker to provide outreach support, advocacy, treatment and case management services to SED children, adolescents and their families.   Our family support workers are an integral part of our treatment teams, collaborating with clinicians and others staff members and operating as a parent mentor in providing practical guidance and support to our multicultural client base of children and families.  This position includes many training opportunities as well as clinical supervision.

 

Primary responsibilities:  Family Support Workers are responsible for: Providing in-home parent training and support, assisting parents in their development as advocates for their children, including joint attendance at school or community meetings and aid in accessing appropriate outside resources. Assisting the clinical team in conducting a family needs assessment and evaluation of family stability.  Develop recommendations on appropriate community resources and supports which would benefit the family. Reviewing family needs, organizing/providing transportation and delivering home-based services including outreach, respite and mentoring. Supporting the therapeutic relationship between the clinician and parent/child, working closely with both parties to coordinate care and communication. Maintaining updated daily records and documentation of interactions with clients and outside care providers in accordance with program standards. Performing other duties as needed or assigned.

 

Qualifications: A Bachelor’s degree is preferred, or some college combined with three years of community-based human service work with parents and children.  This position requires flexible hours and a willingness and capacity to be mobile in the community.  Candidates should have experience with understanding the needs of multi-cultural populations, a cultural sensitivity, and the ability to be flexible to meet the needs of clients.  Good verbal skills and the ability to establish a rapport with a diverse group of families and other staff members is a must.  Bilingual and bicultural background is a plus.

 





Agency Description:  Founded in 1954, The Guidance Center, Inc. (GCI) is a comprehensive child- and family-centered agency delivering high quality developmental, mental health, and family support services to the families of Cambridge and Somerville.  GCI’s programs and services address Infant-Toddler Services, Early Care and Education, Child and Adolescent Services, Wraparound and Family Support Services.  The agency specializes in weaving the latest scientific knowledge into innovative, community-based practice with community-wide impact.

 



Please submit cover letter and resume to:

 

Charlene Zuffante, Director of Wraparound ServicesThe Guidance Center, Inc.

61 Medford St. Somerville, MA 02143 E-mail:           czuffante@gcinc.org

Fax:             617-629-4644

  

The Guidance Center, Inc. is an EOE/AA employer