Community Engagement and Outreach Specialist jobs in Essex, VT

Description

Non-Exempt / Full-Time / Permanent

Benefit Package: Yes 

NEKCA’s staff consist of a hardworking team dedicated to the clients we serve while supporting one another in the work that we do. 

Join the NEKCA team to experience the many benefits that we offer including: 

• Health care coverage 
• Dental care coverage 
• Vision coverage 
• Life/Short Term Disability/AD&D 
• Retirement Plan  
• Vacation  
• Sick time off 
• Paid holidays
• Employee Assistance Program 

All NEKCA staff contribute to a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

NEKCA Mission Statement:

To empower all generations in the Northeast Kingdom to grow, prosper and thrive.

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Outreach Specialist - The Outreach Specialist will primarily be responsible for interviewing clients to determine services needed; coordination and follow-up in providing services and/or referral to individuals and families who request assistance and are working toward self-sufficiency. This position will provide information about services available to low-income people, make referrals to appropriate agencies and community resources, and provide direct assistance for emergency and supportive services when available. The Outreach Specialist will also keep abreast of community resources and benefits/policies that affect low-income people. Will also be responsible for all aspects of working within the Outreach department in a team effort approach. E.O.E.

• Demonstrate competency in all eight areas of NEKCAs Core Values. Demonstrate respect for all NEKCA clients, the choices they make and the challenges they face.
• Manage flow of applicants in order to minimize waiting time
• Assess clients in crisis to determine immediate needs and develop plan for immediate response
• Perform intake for Crisis Program, Warmth, CSBG and any other energy assistance funded programs. Determine and verify income for all applicants in accordance with all program requirements. Order fuel from designated vendor for clients whose application has been approved
• Assist households in completing forms for a variety of benefit programs, such as 3sqVT, SFA, Gilman housing, Rental applications. Understand and be able to negotiate Economic Services regulations and other information about government benefits available to assist low-income people.
• Help with Food Shelf duties
• Coordinate and follow-up with delivery of services to be provided to individuals/families moving towards self-sufficiency. Share options of available resources available to low-income people
• Develop and nurture contacts with other community-based organizations, participate in collaborative efforts to develop and expand services. Work collaboratively with other providers to address needs of low-income households
• Work as a team member to support colleagues, program and agency as a whole
• Process cases with supervisor after each meeting with client
• Understand all program guidance and policies; incorporate them into daily procedures. Complete all necessary logs, documentation, and client files in accurate and timely manner.
• Maintain building this includes but not limited to shoveling walkways and driveway, putting down ice melt, general cleaning, recycling, and reporting any concerns or major damage.
• Attend and participate in staff, agency, and service provider meetings deemed necessary for job performance. Attend Fuel Program procedure and access computer trainings as needed.
• Provide clients with housing information, determination eligibility and assist with required paperwork
• Coordinate and follow-up with delivery of services to be provided to individuals/families moving towards self-sufficiency
• All other duties assigned by the supervisor consistent with the job description

Requirements

• Must comply with NEKCA policies if hired.
• Must authorize and pass criminal record check process.
• Excellent punctuality and attendance are essential.
• High school diploma or equivalent required and the ability to read, write and have basic math skills. Additional related education and/or experience preferred.  
• Must have home telephone and reliable transportation.    
• Six months to one year experience in human services field preferred. Knowledge of community resources including local service providers, state and federal agencies.
• Must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Must be able to maintain good relations with clients, other outreach staff, and members of the community. Must have knowledge of basic computer skills and record keeping, including spreadsheet applications.
• This position is considered a mandated reporter.
• Must be assertive, responsible, and able to work flexible hours. Must be self-motivated, self-initiated and able to demonstrate positive problem-solving skills in stressful situations. Will work independently and as part of the Outreach team.

NEKCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Provider. Applications from women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and people from diverse cultural backgrounds are encouraged. Qualifications for positions within NEKCA are determined by the duties and responsibilities of the position itself.  

Persons with disabilities requiring accommodations in the application and interview process may call 802-334-7316 est. 212 or email at jobs@nekcavt.org. 

For a complete list of open positions and to apply, please click on the link below: 

North East Kingdom Community Action - Job Opportunities (paylocity.com)