- Assesses and creates service plans with clients by obtaining relevant history, collecting and evaluating information, and providing appropriate referrals as needed and work closely with clients on barrier removal, one-on-one and/or in group settings
- Maintains client-related documentation standards by preparing and completing in a timely manner all required records and reports for all assigned clients in all data management systems (Computerized case notes, physical file documentation, MRIS etc.)
- Actively participate in the Elderly Program, a joint partnership that provides social services and ESL to elderly refugees. Help to coordinate citizenship attainment for elderly caseload
- Assist medically-eligible and elderly clients to apply for SSI and follow-up on progress of applications as appropriate
- Coordinate referrals related to immigration and legal services, DCBS and Health Care clinics
- Provide support for homelessness prevention and housing management issues including landlord-tenant liaison services
- Provide support for family crisis management including assistance with referrals to domestic violence services
- Assist clients in identifying and addressing current financial opportunities and challenges, while providing a holistic perspective on overall financial stability in order to help clients move towards proactive financial management and long-term success
- Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending agency in-service programs, educational workshops, state and national trainings and conferences, reviewing professional publications and establishing personal networks.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
This work is performed in an office setting with moderate noise due to computers, printers, and people moving about and out in the community.
EFFORT:
- Ability to sit, stand, walk, and sit for extended periods of time
- Ability to lift/move up to 25 lbs. and assist regularly with moving furniture, clothing, and household furnishings
- Specific vision abilities include close and distant vision
- Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing
- Ability to work under pressure
- Ability to travel frequently within the community
- Ability to accurately examine and analyze information
MACHINES, TOOLS, EQUIPMENT:
telephone, computer, printer, copy machine, fax machine, calculator, scanner, and shredder
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Bachelor’s degree in social services or related field
1-2 years of relevant work experience, preferably with immigrant and/or refugee populations
Reasonable accommodations may be made to those who are able to perform the essential duties of the job
SPECIALIZED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE:
- Must possess reliable personal vehicle and be willing to use personal vehicle transporting clients to various locations within the service area if an agency vehicle is not available.
- Must have a valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
- Be able to work under pressure, handle stressful situations, and have good communication skills to interact successfully with colleagues, clients, volunteers, and service providers.
- Be able to set boundaries with clients and be professional and compassionate.
- If English is the second language, the person must have acceptable proficiency in listening and reading comprehension as well as oral and written communication in English.
- Be able to work flexible hours including nights and weekends.
- Must be people oriented and relate to a varied ethnic populations.
- Must be able to maintain the confidentiality of any information she/he encounters
- Excellent organizational and time management skills