Family Support Specialist

About It Takes A Village Family of Schools (ITAV):
ITAV is a beacon for educating and loving Black children. We provide a comprehensive, culturally responsive social justice education and life-empowering social services. At ITAV, learning is fun and transformative, teaching is innovative, and knowledge is not bound by the walls of the classroom. Students, staff, and families are empowered to be civically engaged and make positive change by addressing local, national, and global issues.  

Role:

The Family Support Specialist plays a vital role in supporting families and strengthening community connections. This role combines case management, community engagement, and resource coordination to ensure families receive individualized support that promotes wellness, academic success, and community development. Reporting to the Family Support Manager, the Family Engagement Specialist delivers culturally responsive services tailored to the needs of families served by the Village Wellness Center. This position requires an intermediate or expert-level understanding of Early Head Start, Head Start, and DFSS policies and rules to ensure alignment with regulatory standards and effective service delivery.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Case Management: Provide personalized case management services to families by conducting structured family interviews and utilizing assessment tools to identify strengths, needs, and risk factors. Use this information to develop individualized service plans, monitor progress, and coordinate referrals to appropriate resources that support family stability and well-being.

• Family Support & Engagement: Offer direct support to families through one-on-one meetings and phone consultations, building strong relationships to foster engagement and trust. 

• Community Resource Coordination: Collaborate with local service providers to connect families to resources that promote wellness and academic success, ensuring that families are informed about available services. 

• Workshops & Orientations: Support the Family Engagement Manager in organizing and facilitating weekly orientations, workshops, and family education events to promote relevant family and community topics. 

• Outreach & Recruitment: Assist in recruitment initiatives for prospective students and families, advocating for VWC’s mission and engaging with community partners. 

• Documentation & Reporting: Maintain accurate and confidential family records in accordance with VWC standards and participate in regular audits to ensure service quality and compliance.

Why Join Us?

• Impact: Step into a pivotal role within our organization, where you'll serve as a cornerstone in the support system for hundreds of families.

• Growth: Join a forward-thinking organization committed to innovation and expansion, offering abundant opportunities for professional development and career advancement as a Family Support Specialist.

• Community: Work alongside a dedicated team of educators and staff who share your passion for making a positive impact in the lives of students and their families.

• Innovation: Contribute to the development and implementation of cutting-edge strategies and programs that integrate social justice, community engagement, and academic excellence into our model of family support.

Location(s): Austin, Bronzeville, Oak Park, South Loop, and West Humboldt Park Communities  (Chicagoland)

Position Type: Full-Time

Salary: $50,000 - $60,000

Required Education and Experience:

Education & Credentials:

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Family Studies, or a related field like Human Services or Psychology.

• Family Specialist Level 5 Credential required, or the ability to obtain within 60 days of hire 

Experience:

• Minimum 3 years of experience in case management, family support services, or community outreach. 

• Experience administering screening tools and using results to support family goal-setting and referrals, with training or exposure to IM+CANS preferred.

• At least 1–2 years of experience supporting family engagement and case management in alignment with Early Head Start, Head Start, and DFSS standards, with the ability to follow protocols and contribute to program compliance.

Skills:

• Bilingual English/Spanish preferred

• Knowledge of Early Head Start, Head Start, and DFSS policies, with the ability to effectively apply them in program implementation and family support services. 

• Strong proficiency in documentation and reporting, with a demonstrated commitment to accuracy, confidentiality, and adherence to compliance standards.

Additional Requirements:

• Must have the physical ability to perform essential tasks, including climbing stairs, walking multiple city blocks, standing for extended periods, and lifting up to 50 pounds.

• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required; must be able to travel within the designated service area

Who You Are:

• You are a passionate advocate for family well-being and community empowerment, dedicated to advancing social justice and equity through transformative family support practices.

• A strategic thinker, you have a proven track record in enhancing student success and school performance.

• Your strength lies in building relationships and fostering collaboration within the educational community. 

• You are a creative and dynamic problem-solver who thrives in evolving educational landscapes. 

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you're inspired to contribute to our mission and lead our recruitment, admissions, and enrollment efforts into an exciting new chapter, we'd love to hear from you. To apply, please upload your cover letter and resume here.

Compensation and Benefits Package:

• Competitive, transparent pay scale aligned with local public schools

• 80% employer contribution of medical benefits

• Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance

• 3% 401(k) company match

• Up to $10,000 in annual tuition assistance 

• Targeted, ongoing professional development

• International travel opportunities with students

• Opportunities for leadership, growth, and meaningful impact