Family Advocate

Job Description Family Advocate – LYNC Program

Location: Greater Hartford & New Britain, CT
Organization: The Village for Families & Children
Employment Type: Full-Time
Salary: $48,000-$50,000 commensurate with experience

The Family Advocate position is responsible for care coordination through provision of a range of case management and support services to LYNC youth and families, in coordination with other LYNC staff, agency, and community providers. Works closely with LYNC Service Specialists in identifying and connecting youth and families to community resources.
Bilingual Spanish speaking preferred

• Provide direct services to youth and families, including clinical assessment, engagement, and development of Risk Reduction Sustainability Plans (RRSP).
• Implement, monitor, and adjust RRSPs throughout service delivery.
• Deliver structured case management using Carey Guides.
• Coordinate discharge planning, ensuring connection to follow‑up treatment and community programs.
• Collaborate with schools, courts, and community organizations to support youth and families.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for youth and families during service.
• Complete all required documentation and reports accurately and on time.

• Participate in all phases of the LYNC model:
  Engagement, Service, and Sustainability.
• Promote a safe, welcoming, culturally competent environment focused on risk reduction and positive behavior change.
• Provide transportation assistance to youth and families as needed.
• Attend required trainings, meetings, and professional development activities.
• Notify supervisor immediately of any risk or safety concerns, including abuse, neglect, or unsafe home environments.
• Contribute to agency committees, task forces, and community representation efforts.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by management.

• Minimum three years of experience working with justice‑involved or system‑involved youth.
• Strong case management and engagement skills.
• Excellent oral and written communication abilities.
• Knowledge of Greater Hartford and New Britain community resources.
• Ability to work independently, stay organized, and manage multiple priorities.
• Culturally competent; bilingual/bicultural candidates strongly encouraged.
• Understanding of risk‑needs‑responsivity principles.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and general computer applications.
• Valid state‑issued driver’s license and ability to travel locally.
• Ability to function safely in therapeutic environments.
• Availability for evening and weekend hours as needed.
• Bilingual Spanish speaking preferred.

• Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Sociology, Human Services, or related field OR
• High School Diploma with 3+ years of experience working with justice/system/agency‑involved youth.

• As a Village employee, you should feel confident that your health and well‑being is one of our highest priorities.
• The Village offers a comprehensive flexible benefits package designed to aid in the health and well‑being of our employees and their dependents.

The Village for Families and Children is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class. Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.