What are the responsibilities and job description for the Preschool Family Worker / Community Resource Liaison position at LIFE Four Corners Child Development Center?
Position Overview
The Preschool Family Worker serves as a bridge between our school, enrolled families, the local public school district, and the broader community. This vital role combines traditional family support and state-mandated outreach with active community development. The Family Worker will lead initiatives to secure community resources—including meal programs, corporate product donations, and family support networks—ensuring our children and families thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
Key Responsibilities
1. Family Engagement & Case Management
- Family Intake & Support: Conduct family Needs Assessments and orientations upon enrollment to identify social service, medical, housing, or financial needs.
- Attendance & Retention: Track daily attendance, conduct supportive outreach (including home visits as appropriate), and work with families to address root causes of chronic absenteeism.
- Parent Empowerment: Plan and facilitate monthly parent workshops, support groups, and family engagement events (e.g., financial literacy, positive parenting, and health education).
- Confidentiality: Maintain complete, secure family files in compliance with FERPA, HIPAA, and state confidentiality standards.
2. Community Resource & Partnership Development
- Food & Nutrition Programs: Establish and oversee community feeding initiatives (e.g., CACFP At-Risk Afterschool Meals, Summer Food Service Program, or local food pantry partnerships) to fight food insecurity in our facility and neighborhood.
- Corporate & Material Donations: Identify and apply for corporate gift-in-kind programs (e.g., Good360, Amazon Wishlists, Target/Walmart store grants) to secure essential household items, clothing, diapers, and school supplies for families.
- District & Community Liaison: Collaborate with local public school district liaisons, social workers, and local organizations to co-host health/resource fairs and streamline Kindergarten transition plans.
- Resource Network: Maintain an up-to-date, non-proprietary directory of verified community resources (housing, utility assistance, mental health, NJ FamilyCare).
3. State Compliance & Administrative Support
- Enrollment Support: Assist leadership with student recruitment, community outreach, and intake documentation.
Qualifications & Requirements
Education:
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Human Services, Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field (preferred).
- High School Diploma/GED with 3 years of direct case management or community outreach experience (considered).
- Clearances & Certifications:
- Must successfully pass a Child Abuse Record Information (CARI) check, State Criminal History Fingerprint clearance, and a physical/TB screening prior to employment.
Skills & Experience:
- Experience navigating New Jersey social service systems, state benefits, and local community organizations.
- Demonstrated track record in community outreach, event planning, or donation procurement.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills (bilingual proficiency in Spanish or another community language is highly desired).
- Proficiency in basic computer applications (Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, electronic record-keeping).
Work Environment & Physical Demands
- Dedicated office space provided; occasional local travel for community meetings, outreach, or home visits may be required.
- Requires the ability to lift up to 25 lbs (for event setup and donation sorting).
Pay: $23.00 - $26.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
Salary : $23 - $26