Why Join Us? The Plaquemines Community CARE Centers Foundation, Inc., as the human services agency for the parish, promotes growth and resilience, through coordinated prevention, advocacy, assessment, education, counseling, and early intervention to improve the quality of life for children and their families, the elderly, and community members with disabilities. Our vision is to improve the well-being of the residents of Plaquemines Parish, “One child, one family at a time!” Join our team to make a meaningful impact while working in a dynamic and supportive environment.

Summary/Objective:

• We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Child and Family Advocate to support children and families by providing advocacy, case management, and resource coordination. This role involves recruiting and training volunteers, assisting families through legal and social service processes, and ensuring access to necessary resources. The Advocate will also engage in community outreach, maintain accurate records, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to promote positive client outcomes. Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills are essential. If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and families, we encourage you to apply. Additionally, we strongly encourage bilingual candidates to apply, as your skills can help us better serve our community. While bilingual proficiency is not a requirement for this role, it is highly appreciated.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities:

• Program Administration & Volunteer Management
• • Oversee the integrity and operation of the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Program in alignment with national, state, and local CASA standards.
  • Recruit, train, and supervise CASA volunteers, ensuring consistent screening procedures and ongoing training.
  • Stay informed on child welfare policies, including child abuse and neglect laws, and relevant state and federal legislation.
  • Provide case management support and accompany volunteers to court as needed.
  • Maintain accurate case records and ensure timely communication with the courts.
  • Ensure compliance with all CASA-related policies and procedures in coordination with the Director.
  • Conduct community Darkness to Light training on child abuse prevention.
• Advocacy & Case Management
• • Serve as an advocate for children undergoing forensic interviews, providing case management, support, and referrals to victims and their families.
  • Keep families informed on the status of legal proceedings and coordinate services with the District Attorney’s office.
  • Facilitate court preparation for children required to testify.
  • Coordinate the scheduling of Forensic Interviews.
  • Present new referrals for therapy or other services during weekly case staffing.
  • Maintain accurate records in the Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) electronic database.
  • Coordinate care and services among providers.
  • Facilitate and attend monthly multidisciplinary team meetings and provide updates on case developments.
• Community Outreach & Resource Coordination
• • Assist residents in accessing services by identifying and addressing barriers to care.
  • Maintain and update a database of community resources.
  • Conduct outreach by attending community events.
  • Uphold ethical standards and comply with organizational funding requirements.
  • Maintain professionalism in conduct, appearance, and interactions with clients, staff, and external partners.
• Additional Responsibilities
• • Provide administrative support, including front desk coverage one evening per week until 6:15pm.
  • Participate in professional development opportunities.
  • Perform other duties, as assigned.

Education, Experience, & Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree, required. (In social services field, preferred).
• Case Management certification (preferred).
• 3 years of experience in child maltreatment, case management, or as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (preferred).
• Proficiency in computer use, internet research, and office software required (word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and presentations).
• Experience and passion working with diverse populations.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities with excellent interpersonal and communication skills (verbal & written).
• Successful background check, fingerprinting, and drug screening required.

Work Environment & Demands:

• This position typically follows a 40-hour work week, Monday through Friday, with standard hours of 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, however, flexibility with hours and availability may be required based on organizational need and role specifics.
• The position requires working in an office and group therapy environment, with occasional travel to community partner events and participant locations. The role requires flexibility in adapting to varying CARE Center needs and program demands.
• Physical requirements include the ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally (e.g., office materials or supplies).
• May involve standing or walking for extended periods while some tasks may require bending, stooping, or reaching.
• Regular use of standard office equipment such as computers, phones, and various digital devices.
• Capacity to perform repetitive tasks; read, analyze, and interpret data; maintain visual attention and mental concentration for significant periods of time.