The Family Specialist maintains a caseload to provide comprehensive, family centered support to families in our community that are in need. Project First Step supports families who are often economically challenged, in need of parenting education, may have drug and alcohol addictions, may be intellectually challenged or lack the resources to provide a safe environment for their children Family Specialists use assessment/measurement tools for program planning as well as evidenced based parenting curriculums and supportive programs to help families get the education and resources they need to thrive.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Maintains a caseload and provides comprehensive services to families in varying levels of need.
• Attends appointments and meetings with or on behalf of the program participant in variety settings.
• Networks with local social service agencies and referring agencies.
• Completes routine documentation as it pertains to with or for program participants. Prepares monthly reports.
• Maintains on-going staff training and certifications as required.
• Prepare Family Action/Case Plans for each program participant and work with Erie County Office of Children and Youth when required.
• Utilize program curriculum and training materials for child birth and parenting when applicable.
• Assists program involved families with obtaining any and all necessary home and community services to best address their needs.
• Assists families in identifying skills and implementing goals needed to parent children in a safe and healthy environment including showing families how to properly clean and maintain a clean and safe environment for their children

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university or working towards an undergraduate degree (i.e., students within their final semester). Preferred degrees include Psychology, Social Work, Sociology, and Counseling but not required.
• Related experience and/or training is preferred.
• Demonstrates ability to provide direct service to individuals and families.
• Ability to travel within Erie and surrounding counties.
• Must demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing.
• Experience with mental illness, intellectual disabilities and drug and alcohol addiction and recovery is preferred.
• Knowledge of the Erie County Office of Children and Youth and the family court system is preferred.
• Knowledge of or experience with a variety of social services agencies and supports in Erie and surrounding counties is preferred