FAMILY NAVIGATOR

Job Description

Job Description

GENERAL DESCRIPTION/PURPOSE

The Family Navigator is responsible for providing resources and referrals for enrolling families in Respite Care services. This position will also manage each family's case while documenting and reporting program effectiveness. The Family Navigator will collaborate with community partners and provide immediate assistance to families in crises.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Case Management & Follow-Up

• Promote and embody a philosophy of trauma-informed family-centered care.

• Develop Service Plans: Work with families to develop personalized action plans that outline steps for accessing resources and services.

• Build trust and collaborative partnerships with families.

• Ongoing Support: Maintain regular contact with families to monitor their progress, address barriers, and adjust their plans.

• Problem Solving: Assist families in overcoming obstacles they may encounter while trying to access services, advocating on their behalf.

Resource Coordination & Referrals

• Assist and Aid the Family Support Services Coordinator and Manager with enrolling families into services.

• Assess Family Needs: Conduct assessments to understand each family’s specific needs, challenges, and goals.

• Provide Referrals: Connect families with local services, such as housing assistance, food programs, healthcare, childcare, educational support, etc.

• Resource Information: Offer clear information about resources available within the community, including eligibility criteria and application process.

Collaboration with Community Partners

• Network Building: Build relationships with local agencies, non-profits, schools, and other community resources to stay informed of current offerings and enhance referral options.

• Support the Family Support Services team in planning, coordinating, and participating in outreach events and efforts.

• Assist in engaging families and community members to promote available resources.

• Interagency Collaboration: Work with other social service providers and case managers to coordinate holistic care for families, ensuring they receive comprehensive support.

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain Records: Document all interactions with families, keeping detailed and confidential records in line with agency policies.

• Reporting: Compile regular reports on family outcomes, services accessed, and barriers faced, helping to improve program effectiveness.

• Data Management: Track family progress, resource utilization, and other data to provide insights into services provided for families.

Crisis Support & Intervention

• Immediate Assistance: Provide urgent support for families facing crises, such as homelessness, food insecurity, or domestic violence.

• Safety Planning: Work with families to create safety plans when they experience situations that put their safety or well-being at risk.

• Crisis Referrals: Quickly connect families to emergency resources or shelter options during urgent situations.

Advocacy & Empowerment

• Empower Families: Encourage self-advocacy by educating families on their rights and empowering them to navigate complex systems independently.

• Policy Advocacy: Share insights and advocate within the agency for policy or program changes based on family needs and experiences.

• Community Voice: Help amplify family voices within the community, encouraging input and feedback to shape family-centered programs and services better.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be 21 years of age or older and have favorable findings on background checks, including the Texas Department of Public Safety, Texas Department of Health, and Texas Department of Family and Protective Services criminal record checks, a negative drug test, and a negative TB test.

• Bachelor’s degree in social work or related field with a minimum of two years related experience or a combination of education and at least five years of related experience.