Path to a Fulfilling Family Advocate Career in India with in-depth Career Guide

Family advocates work in a social service agency that works with kids and families. They may be employed in foster homes, foster care facilities, for families and children non-profit organizations, or directly with the government's social services departments. Family advocates are accountable for building a bond with the children assigned to them and their families in order to help their children through challenging situations and offer guidance to parents. They also assist families in reaching for community-based programs for those who are eligible. They also serve as a liaison between the family and the programs.

Family advocates conduct interviews, ask questions and write about children and families; provide suggestions for programs and community involvement. They also assist families by providing education and support. They work with other advocates and supervisors as well as other advocates. This position is an obligatory reporter for suspected abuse. As such, they can work with police or child protection services. The job is usually full-time, with the schedule rotating, meaning that advocates can work weekends and evenings, depending on how many clients are available. The position could require travel to the homes of clients.

Family advocates typically need, at minimum a high school diploma or equivalent. However, a bachelor's degree in a discipline that is related to the job (such as sociology, psychology, or a different human services area) could be required or highly desirable. They should have prior experience working with community populations as well as (depending on the area) proficiency in a different language than English is often highly sought-after. It can be stressful job, so family advocates should be able to maintain peace in stressful situations and be able to work with individuals who are at a challenging moment in their lives. They should be positive and supportive in their work. They must also possess outstanding communication and interpersonal abilities.