Marcus Baker is one of the Lead Parent Advocates in the Parent Engagement Program at A Better Way Inc. With four years of dedicated service, Marcus has supported several hundred families in their journey to reunification. He excels in guiding parents through the complexities of the Department of Children and Family Services, helping them overcome challenges such as substance use disorders, undiagnosed mental health issues, and homelessness.
Marcus’s passion for advocacy stems from his own experiences. Before joining A Better Way Inc., he worked as a Building and Grounds Manager. His background and personal journey through the child welfare system have given him unique insights and a deep empathy for the families he serves.
In his role at A Better Way Inc., Marcus has been instrumental in implementing program components that provide parents with the tools and resources they need to navigate the child welfare system. He conducts workshops and training sessions on topics such as effective communication, understanding legal rights, and accessing community resources. Marcus also provides one-on-one support to parents, helping them create personalized plans to address their specific challenges.
In addition to his professional role, Marcus is an active member of local and national advocacy groups. He collaborates with other advocates to push for systemic changes in child welfare policies, aiming to create a more supportive and equitable system for all families. Marcus is committed to empowering families and ensuring they receive the support they need to navigate the Alameda County Department of Children and Family Services.