Parent Family Community Engagement Specialist

Who we are

Welcome to MiSide, a Community Impact Network dedicated to providing expert support and guidance with every side of life. One trusted full-service partner people of all ages and backgrounds can go to for help with everything from early childhood development to mental health and wellness to employment and wealth management even finding a place to call home.  There’s always an upside to working together, especially when you’re working with the best to make the world a better place for everyone. Get ready to see it first hand with MiSide.

Position Overview:

The Parent, Family & Community Engagement (PFCE) Specialist is responsible for leading, coordinating, and implementing comprehensive family and community engagement services in accordance with Head Start Program Performance Standards. This position supports families in achieving self-sufficiency goals, promotes positive parent-child relationships, and strengthens partnerships between families, the program, and the community. The PFCE Specialist works collaboratively with program leadership, teaching staff, and community partners to ensure families are actively engaged in their child’s learning and development while having access to needed resources and support services.

Requirements:

Family Engagement & Support

• Review and Monitor family partnership agreements and individualized family goal plans. 
• Conduct family needs assessments and provide referrals to community resources (e.g., housing, employment, healthcare, mental health services).
• Facilitate parent education workshops and support groups. 
• Promote family well-being and school readiness through strength-based practices. 

Community Partnerships

• Coordinate community resource events, health fairs, and outreach initiatives.
• Establish and maintain relationships with local agencies, service providers, and community organizations. 
• Maintain up-to-date community resource directories.

Parent Leadership & Governance 

• Support parent involvement in program governance, including Policy Council, and Parent Committee participation.
• Encourage volunteerism and leadership development among parents.
• Provide training to parents on advocacy and leadership skills. 
• Coordinate Policy Council and Parent Committee meetings. Ensure all agendas, attendance records, minutes, meeting handouts, action items, and budget expenditures and in- kind records are maintained.
• Recruit and Retain representation of community representatives for Policy Council.

Collaboration & Compliance 

• Work closely with teachers, family service staff, and administrators to support whole-family services. 
• Prepare and disseminate monthly newsletter to families and community partners with input from families, staff, and community partners. 
• Ensure documentation and reporting meet Head Start Performance Standards and agency requirements.
• Maintain accurate case files and data tracking systems. 

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, human services, family studies, or a related field

Desired Experience: 

• Early Head Start / Head Start experience (preferred).
• Experience working with low-income families and diverse populations.
• Knowledge of family systems, trauma-informed practices, and community resources. 
• Strong communication, organizational, and case management skills. 
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and demonstrate cultural competence.

Certifications and Licensure: 

• Possession of a valid driver’s license and access to a reliable transportation for day-to-day job performance 
• Must pass the State of Michigan Child Care Background Check

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills. 
• Ability to build trust with diverse populations. 
• Cultural competence and sensitivity. 
• Organizational and case management skills. 
• Proficiency in data entry and basic computer applications.

Salary : $58,000 - $65,000