Parent Advocate (Part-Time) Brooklyn

Parent Advocate (Part-Time) Brooklyn

Reports To: Program Coordinator, Parent Support Services

Work Locations:

• Crossroads Secure Facility – 17 Bristol Street, Brooklyn, NY 11208
• Good Shepherd Justice Initiatives Office – 692 Blake Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11207

Hours: Part-Time up to 20 hours per week. Main schedule: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM, with at least one weekend day per month. Salary: $21.98 – $24.72 per hour

Job Summary: The Parent Support Program strengthens families of youth involved in the juvenile justice system by offering education, emotional support, and connection to community resources. The program's goal is to help families navigate detention and reentry while building positive, lasting family relationships.

The Parent Advocate provides guidance, mentorship, and advocacy to caregivers of detained youth at Crossroads Secure Facility. This role is ideal for someone who is supportive, empathetic, and eager to help families stay connected and prepared for their child's return home. Lived experience with the juvenile justice or probation system is highly valued and welcomed.

Major Duties of Parent Advocate @ Crossroads

• Welcome and support parents and caregivers during all visiting hours, ensuring a respectful and positive experience.
• Host a monthly support group for caregivers of detained youth.
• Assist families with reentry preparation, including school planning and connecting to community resources.
• Provide surrogate visits for youth whose caregivers are unable to attend in person.
• Help plan and lead special events and celebrations that promote family unity and connection.
• Complete accurate and timely data entry for visits, support groups, family contacts, referrals, and case notes.

General Duties

• Encourage families to stay involved and informed throughout their child's case.
• Provide caregivers with information about local programs and neighborhood-based supports.
• Listen to caregiver concerns and help identify resources that reduce risks for youth.
• Attend required meetings with Good Shepherd and Crossroads partners.
• Maintain detailed, organized documentation via routine data entry.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required, some college preferred.
• Experience in child welfare, social services, or supporting families is helpful but not required.
• Knowledge of Brooklyn's community resources preferred.
• Personal or family experience with the juvenile justice or probation system is strongly valued.
• Comfortable supporting diverse families with empathy and professionalism.
• Able to complete consistent, accurate data entry and maintain organized records.