Family Advocate- Benton Harbor
About the role
Flowers Early Learning (formerly Tri-County Head Start) is a high-quality preschool serving Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties. Recognized as one of the Best and Brightest Companies to Work for in the Nation (2024) and a Moody Market Best Place to Work in Southwest Michigan (2021). Mission: To build a future where children, families and communities thrive. Impact lasts a lifetime through high-quality education, health services and more for families in need.
Responsibilities
- Assist in classroom coverage
- Plan and implement family engagement requirements to assure compliance with Performance Standards
- Develop Family Partnership Agreements
- Handle recruitment, enrollment, attendance analysis & follow‑up
- Conduct community outreach and family engagement activities
- Travel between Flowers Early Learning locations and/or participants’ homes
- Gather resource information and make referrals for family growth
- Partner with families and staff to complete necessary health requirements
Requirements
- High School Diploma/GED with two years’ experience in a related field
- Valid driver’s license and own reliable transportation
- Must be 18 years of age
- Complete a physical examination
- Pass a comprehensive fingerprinted criminal background check
- Pass a pre‑employment drug screen (negative for amphetamines, cannabinoids, cocaine, opiates, PCP)
Qualifications
- Preferred: Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Social Services, Human Services, Family Services, or related field
- Or obtain a Family Service Credential within 18 months of hire
Benefits
- Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
- 401(k) with employer contribution
- Assistance in furthering education
- Paid time off, earned sick time, paid parental leave
- Paid holidays and breaks
- Paid weather days
- Tuition reimbursement
- Employee assistance program
- Wellness committee resources
Pay
Rate of Pay (based on education/credential):
- High School Diploma/GED: $15.96/hr
- Family Services Credential: $17.23/hr
- Associate’s Degree: $18.52/hr
- Bachelor’s Degree or higher: $21.07/hr
Schedule
Full‑time, year‑round (12‑month), hourly, non‑exempt. Expected schedule: Monday‑Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m., 40 hours per week. Hours may vary due to daily schedule, season, and work duties; may include monthly transport for Policy Council, evening hours as required for Freddy Night or community events.