Engagement and Advocacy Specialist

Job Description

Job DescriptionDescription:Position Summary

The Engagement and Advocacy Specialist provides relationship-centered support to program participants through consistent engagement and advocacy. This role serves as a trusted relational bridge, helping participants navigate medical, behavioral health, legal, and housing systems while promoting follow-through, problem-solving, and sustained engagement. By walking alongside participants in real time, this position increases trust, and supports long-term stability and well-being.

Key Responsibilities

Relationship-Centered Engagement

• Build and maintain consistent, trusting relationships with participants through regular contact and individualized support.
• Meet participants where they are, offering nonjudgmental, strengths-based engagement.
• Serve as a reliable point of connection to increase follow-through and reduce disengagement.
• Provide peer-based support informed by lived experience, shared understanding, and mutual respect.
• Encourage self-advocacy, empowerment, and participant voice in decision-making.
• Offer emotional support and practical guidance during periods of transition or challenge.

Advocacy and System Navigation

• Advocate alongside participants within medical, behavioral health, housing, legal, and social service systems.
• Support communication between participants and service providers as needed.
• Work with program staff to help participants meet goals.

Group Facilitation

• Facilitate support groups, skill-building sessions, or engagement activities.
• Foster inclusive, respectful group environments that encourage participation and connection.
• Support participants in building peer networks and mutual support.

Documentation and Collaboration

• Maintain timely, accurate documentation of participant interactions and outcomes.
• Collaborate closely with all program staff and community partners.
• Participate in team meetings and training.
• Perform other tasks as assigned by the direct supervisor.

Requirements:Qualifications

• Lived experience relevant to the populations served is strongly valued.
• Experience in peer support, community engagement, advocacy, or related fields.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to navigate complex systems and support participants through them.
• Group facilitation experience preferred.
• Commitment to equity, dignity, and participant-centered care.

Core Competencies

• Relationship-centered and trauma-informed approach.
• Strong advocacy and problem-solving skills.
• Reliability, consistency, and follow-through.
• Cultural humility and respect for diverse experiences.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

The Father’s Heart is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, age, or any other legally protected status. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals and provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you require accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact us.

Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States. Employment offers are contingent upon successful completion of a background check.