Parenting Partner

SEEKING: We are seeking a Parenting Partner for our Northern Berkshires location

RESPONSIBLE TO: Family Support Program Manager

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:

The Parenting Partnership Program at Child Care of the Berkshires provides home visiting support, parent education, advocacy, and referrals to Northern Berkshire families facing multiple stressors.

BASIC FUNCTION:

Parenting Partners manage an individual caseload of families referred by the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF) to assist with the implementation of family service plans while promoting family stability and improved outcomes for children. Services are conducted in collaboration with the Parenting Partnership team, other CCB staff, the program’s Family Networks liaison, and DCF social workers and supervisors.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Works with families in a strength-based manner to develop individualized plans to meet parents’ goals as identified by parents and the Department of Children and Families.
• Conducts weekly home visits to provide support and education on a variety of topics including stress management, parenting skill development, health education, assessment of home safety, and cleaning/organizational skills, with the goal of empowering families and promoting self-sufficiency.
• Assists families in identifying and connecting with services and resources to meet financial, emotional, physical, educational, and developmental needs.
• Coordinates services and provides case management where appropriate.
• Assesses risk factors through use of observation and interviewing.
• Documents accurately, legibly, and succinctly client and collateral contacts and completes reports and paperwork in a timely manner.
• Maintains close working relationships with DCF social workers and Family Networks staff.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree or 5 years of work experience in a related field supporting multi-stressed families.
• Ability to establish supportive, non-judgmental rapport with others; must demonstrate good listening skills.
• Knowledge of and familiarity with local health and human services and community resources is desirable.
• Experience parenting or working with children strongly preferred.
• Understanding of and commitment to the Strengthening Families philosophy and family support principles.
• Ability to structure time and responsibilities independently, ability to plan and implement activities to occur in clients’ homes on a regular basis.
• Ability to form positive working relationships with families at high risk for child abuse, substance abuse, and violence.
• Ability to work with other professionals in the community and to coordinate services.
• Must successfully complete the CORI process.

SCHEDULE: This position is 20 hours per week year-round.

SALARY RANGE AND BENEFITS: $20-$21.50 per hour with paid time off, vision and dental benefits.