Family Engagement Specialist

Family Engagement Specialist

GSGBC is seeking a passionate and dedicated Family Engagement Specialist to build strong, trusting relationships with parents and families.

The mission of Gene Slay’s Girls & Boys Club (GSGBC) is to empower girls and boys in the St. Louis metropolitan area, especially those who need us most, to realize their physical, intellectual, and emotional potential.

We aspire to help youth build strong, supportive relationships that allow them to safely explore and discover new skills, ideas and opportunities to reach their fullest potential.

Deep Appreciation, Tailored Support, Social and Emotional Growth, Strong Relationships, Collaborations, Critical Thinking and Family Partnerships.

Since 2018, GSGBC has embraced trauma-informed care in its operations and service delivery to members and their families. Drawing from models like the Sanctuary Model, Missouri Model, and Conscious Discipline, the organization integrates trauma-informed principles into its culture and practices. Staff receive training to understand the impacts of trauma and effectively address related behaviors. The Conscious Discipline Model emphasizes safety, connection, and problem‑solving, enhancing support for children’s emotional and behavioral needs.

GSGBC is committed to fostering a supportive, empowering environment where members and families can thrive.

GSGBC offers after school and summer programming for youth ages 5–16, serving more than 700 youth annually. GSGBC supports youth development and holistic health with programs that include:
Academics, Athletics, Character Building, Healthy Living, College & Career Readiness and The Arts. The After school Program runs August through May, 2:30 pm–7:30 pm. A Summer Camp is offered June through July, 8:00 am–5:00 pm.

This position is a grant‑funded three‑year position. Extension of this position beyond the grant cycle will be determined based on funding.

The Family Engagement Specialist is a full‑time, year‑round employee. During the school year (August – May), the Social Services Coordinator will split their time between the three GSGBC sites, working approximately 11:00 am–7:30 pm. During Summer Camp (June – July), the Family Engagement Specialist will be located at GSGBC’s Soulard Campus and will work approximately 8:30 am–5:00 pm.

Occasional evenings and weekends may be required for events both on‑ and off‑site.

This individual will be responsible for working with the Social Services Team and Program Team to build strong, trusting relationships with the parents and families of GSGBC youth. The Family Engagement Specialist will serve as a bridge between the Club and families—helping parents feel welcomed, informed, and involved in their children’s experiences. This individual must have general knowledge of trauma‑informed care and experience empowering youth and families through meaningful engagement and support.

• Build healthy, respectful relationships with families and youth, with a specific focus on parent engagement and rapport
• Utilize trauma‑informed principles to provide guidance, encouragement, and support to families navigating challenges
• Coordinate family outreach: communicate regularly with parents and caregivers, share updates about Club programs and events (including the creation and distribution of a family‑focused newsletter), and connect families to needed support and community resources
• Plan and facilitate family‑centered workshops, training, and events that encourage parental participation in the Club community
• Partner with program staff to coordinate and co‑facilitate monthly family meetings and celebrations
• Provide parent education and resource navigation through one‑on‑one meetings and small group sessions
• Assist the Membership Administrator in managing the registration process, provide direct support to families requiring assistance, and conduct follow‑up outreach with families of members identified as having higher levels of need
• Collaborate with the Social Services Manager, Social Services Coordinator, Program Leadership and Staff to…