Family Success Partner

Overview:

The Family Partner at the Weequahic Family Success Center (WFSC) plays a pivotal role in supporting and empowering families in Newark’s South Ward. This position is integral to the Center’s mission of strengthening families, promoting healthy child development, and fostering community resilience. The Family Partner is responsible for conducting intake assessments, linking families to essential services, and providing case management to help individuals and families access the resources they need to thrive. This role also includes delivering educational workshops, supporting community outreach efforts, and collaborating with diverse staff to implement programs designed to meet the specific needs of the community.

Newark Emergency Services for Families, Inc. is the parent organization of the Weequahic Family Success Center.

Key Responsibilities:

• • Intake and Assessment:
  • Conduct intake assessments for families and individuals visiting the WFSC. Gather information on family needs and goals, and facilitate referrals to relevant services both within and outside the center.
  • Case Management:
  • Provide personalized case management services to residents, helping them navigate systems, set goals, and connect with appropriate resources such as parenting classes, job training, mental health services, and more.
  • Resource Coordination:
  • Maintain an updated knowledge of community resources and ensure that families are linked to vital services. Serve as a point of contact for individuals seeking information and referrals.
  • Workshop Facilitation:
  • Plan, coordinate, and facilitate monthly workshops on topics such as parenting, health, job training, financial literacy, and disaster recovery. Create family-friendly, engaging environments for participants.

• • Community Engagement and Outreach:
  • Collaborate with the Center Director and team to design and execute outreach strategies that engage a diverse array of community members, including public housing tenants, new immigrants, and long-standing residents. Ensure participation from families with varying needs, including those facing mental health, economic, and environmental challenges.
  • Family Event Coordination:
  • Help organize and coordinate at least two family events per month, such as health fairs, community dinners, or holiday celebrations, aimed at strengthening community ties and supporting family well-being.
  • Team Collaboration:
  • Work closely with WFSC staff, community partners, and local organizations to ensure the delivery of high-quality services. Participate in team meetings and contribute to the development of new initiatives to support families and children.
  • Leadership and Accountability:
  • Take the lead on specific programs and projects, ensuring they are implemented effectively and that outcomes are tracked and reported. Provide mentorship and support to families as needed.
  • Trauma-Informed Care:
  • Incorporate trauma-informed approaches in service delivery, recognizing and addressing the impact of traumatic stress on families and children. Provide compassionate support to those impacted by disasters, housing instability, and other forms of adversity.
  • Program Evaluation:
  • Hold focus groups with residents to gather feedback and determine the types of services and programs that will best serve the community’s needs. Use this feedback to help refine programming and improve service delivery.
  • Administrative Support:
  • Maintain accurate records, files, and documentation of client interactions and case management activities. Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and reporting requirements.

Qualifications:

• • Experience:
  • Minimum of 4 years of experience in a nonprofit setting, preferably in social services or community outreach. Experience with case management, resource coordination, or working with families in crisis is strongly preferred.
  • Education:
  • A minimum of an Associate’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, or a related field. Bachelor’s degree preferred.
  • Skills & Abilities:
  • Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.

• • Familiarity with community resource networks and social service delivery systems in New Jersey.
  • Ability to lead and motivate others, ensuring accountability and fostering a collaborative team environment.
  • Knowledge of trauma-informed practices and a strengths-based approach to service delivery.
  • Ability to engage with diverse populations, including individuals from varying socioeconomic, cultural, and linguistic backgrounds.
  • Work Schedule:
  • Flexibility to work some evenings and weekends as required for community events, outreach, and workshops.

Preferred Qualities:

• • A passion for serving children and families in need, with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by low-income families and individuals.
  • Ability to connect with and build trust among diverse populations, including immigrants, long-standing residents, and individuals facing multiple barriers to success.
  • Previous experience working in a Family Success Center or similar community-based setting is a plus.
  • Bilingual candidates (Spanish/English) are strongly encouraged to apply.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter outlining their experience, qualifications, and why they are passionate about working with families and communities. Please send your application to:

Victoria Gray, NESF Chief of Staff,

vgray@nesfnj.org

We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

This Family Partner position offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and families in the South Ward of Newark, contributing to the mission of NESF and the Weequahic Family Success Center.