A family support worker has many duties that include providing guidance to families in need. The need may be financial aid, family counseling, or therapy, among other necessities. For families requiring assistance, the family support worker may provide information on how to obtain food stamps or enroll in programs dedicated to health care. Family support worker training is generally an extensive process.

In some cases, a family support worker will organize events to raise money for those who have encountered adversity, such as displacement due to natural disasters or fire, or loss of a job. As a seasonal event, a family support worker may work with the local community to distribute food to the needy or toys to children at Christmas. Some family support workers also provide assistance to low-income families in need of low-cost housing. Enlisting the community for volunteers to work with outreach programs that educate families in times of need are another responsibility.

Some family support workers volunteer in other community services that benefit children. A family support worker may volunteer for organizations such as Big Sisters and Big Brothers of America. These are individuals who mentor children, typically from a one-parent household, either in a school or community-based program. Some family support counselors volunteer to take a child to events, such as a ball game, or to simply spend time with a child one-on-one.

Family support workers also intervene in other times of family crisis. In situations such as divorce that may have be difficult for a child, the family support worker may provide resources for group or family therapy. This worker may also talk with the child's teachers or the family's clergy.

Someone who wants to work as a family support worker will typically need a bachelor's degree and experience in counseling. Some prior social service experience is also a typical requirement for this type of work. These professionals also have experience in dealing with issues faced by homeless and low-income families.

Some family support workers are known as community support specialists. These workers extend their services beyond helping an individual family. They work to support and provide education to the community. As part of the human services program, these workers may enlist volunteers in the community or sponsor events to benefit various causes.