Melanie Searan
Topeka,KS
Summary
Determined family advocate proudly offering several years' experience making home visits, providing assistance to families of children with disabilities and facilitating partnerships within the community. A highly trained professional promoting respect for all cultures. Offering exemplary time management skills and being calm in tense environments.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Child and Family Advocate
NEK-CAP
Meriden, KS
03.2023 - Current
- Conducted home visits and kept in contact with families by phone in accordance with agency policies.
- Educated clients about available community resources and assisted them with accessing those resources when needed.
- Assisted families with obtaining resources such as medical care, housing, food, and employment opportunities.
- Coordinated referrals for mental health services and other specialized services.
- Followed data security regulations to keep client information confidential.
- Cultivated strong relationships with clients by providing ongoing support through regular check-ins or phone calls.
- Maintained accurate records of all client contacts including documenting progress notes into an electronic database system.
- Used job-related software to compose or prepare correspondence, case notes and technical reports
- Utilized task prioritization and data organization skills to effectively manage large caseload.
- Attended trainings and workshops on topics related to family advocacy work.
- Updated and maintained databases with current information.
- Demonstrated strong problem-solving skills, resolving issues efficiently and effectively.
- Managed time effectively to ensure tasks were completed on schedule and deadlines were met.
- Prioritized and organized tasks to efficiently accomplish service goals.
- Counseled parents on proper child-rearing choices.
Family Home Childcare Provider
Self- Employed
Topeka, KS
06.2008 - 03.2023
- Supported children's emotional and social development, encouraging understanding of others and positive self-concepts.
- Developed age-appropriate activities and games to engage the children.
- Taught basic language skills such as counting, colors, shapes.
- Observed behavior of the children on a regular basis to identify any issues or concerns.
- Organized field trips and outings for the children.
- Established positive relationships with parents and guardians to ensure cooperation.
- Taught children how to complete basic crafts such as paintings, drawings and decorations.
- Kept records of daily observations and information about activities, meals served and medications administered.
- Provided nurturing and appropriate environment for children of various ages.
- Maintained accurate records of attendance and progress reports.
- Maintained safe play environment.
- Established and maintained safe, supportive and welcoming environments for children of all backgrounds.
- Supported parents and guardians by providing advice on childcare matters.
- Updated detailed records for each child with information such as daily observations, meals served and medications administered.
- Ensured compliance with state regulations regarding childcare operations.
- Communicated with parents or guardians about daily activities, behaviors and upcoming events.
- Attended relevant workshops and seminars related to early childhood education.
- Managed time effectively to ensure tasks were completed on schedule and deadlines were met.
- Demonstrated strong problem-solving skills, resolving issues efficiently and effectively.
- Managed administrative program tasks such as taking attendance, updating logs and tracking supplies.
Education
Associate of Arts - Early Childhood Education
Rasmussen University
03-2025
Skills
- Family advocacy
- Case management
- Parenting education
- Family needs assessments
- Child development
- Case tracking and follow up
- Community resources
Certification
- CPR and First Aid Certification
- Mental Health First Aid Certification
- Presumptive Eligibility for KanCare
- Family Development Credential
Timeline
Child and Family Advocate
NEK-CAP
03.2023 - Current
Family Home Childcare Provider
Self- Employed
06.2008 - 03.2023
Associate of Arts - Early Childhood Education
Rasmussen University
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