Family Resource Specialist

Job Definition: The Family Resource Specialist working in this family-focused Community Schools’ School-Based Pantry environment is responsible for establishing and maintaining relationships with families whose children attend the community school; aimed at identifying the need for providing parent support, linkages to Mercer Street Friends (MSF) and community resources, models of healthy parent-child interaction strategies, and health/safety guidance. Efforts are focused on improving student and family overall wellness and availability for learning and participation in the school community. Furthermore, the individual is committed to working with urban youth and families identified as high-risk and can demonstrate a sufficient level of trauma- informed care and cultural competence.

Essential Functions/Responsibilities:

Conduct culturally responsive family-friendly outreach and ensure engagement with parents to

make services known and available.

Work with referred families identified/interested in establishing a connection with the Family

Resource Specialist to address issues/challenges that are affecting family stability, their physical

or emotional health, personal safety, financial wellness, or basic life necessities

Develop a Family Support Plan designed to diminish challenging situations and address needs that

will increase participation in opportunities for education, youth development, personal growth, and

healthy social connections.

Arrange to work with families at community school

Collaborate with school staff via meetings for information exchange.

Explore MSF and community resources relevant to student/family needs

Document initial Family Support Plan and follow-up revisions/results of efforts in data base.

Track all family contacts, referrals, and follow-up activities in an assigned database

Maintain confidentiality of records related to the client’s case management