Job Description

NORTHAMPTON AREA

English/Spanish Bilingual Community Services Resource Advocate

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Resource Advocate has two primary responsibilities: answering the Information & Referral phone line, and working more in-depth with individuals and families' in-person, by phone or video. Information and Referral includes screening callers for benefit programs, scheduling appointments, making connections to resources, educating callers about programs and public benefit systems. Work with individuals and families follows a strengths-based, evidence-based model, to provide in-depth screening, program referrals application assistance, advocacy, education, budget assessment and follow-up services. Resource Advocates assist with enrollment for a variety of programs such as SNAP, MassHealth/Connector Care, financial assistance programs, and housing assistance resources. Remote work from home may be required.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS:

High School or HS Equivalency and five years' experience in Human Service or related field or applicable work experience working with individuals and families that have low incomes.
Knowledge of Franklin, Hampshire & N. Quabbin region agencies and resources preferred.
Bi-lingual English-Spanish required
Additional education may be substituted for related experience or additional related experience may be substituted for education

SKILLS REQUIRED:

Excellent listening skills and ability to demonstrate patience and a non-judgmental attitude when dealing with people experiencing crises.
Ability to write, read and converse in both Spanish and English
Ability to work effectively with program participants, including advocating for them, developing and managing household budgets, and working with participants to achieve goals.
Sensitivity to cultural and socioeconomic diversity and the needs of individuals with low incomes.
Understanding of poverty and its impact on individuals and families.
Proficient computer skills including using a mouse, email, typing, Microsoft Office applications, database programs, calendars, scanning documents and maintaining electronic files.
Ability to learn quickly new software.
Excellent customer service skills.
Excellent verbal (in-person and phone) and written communication skills.
Excellent listening and interpersonal skills.
Excellent organization skills with attention to detail, ability to multi-task and ability to maintain accurate and organized participant case files.
Ability to perform basic math computations.
Understanding data capture and tracking methods.
Demonstrated ability to work both independently and as a team and complete assignments in a timely manner.
Demonstrated ability to build positive relationships with participants, community members and organizations.

How To Apply

To apply please go to https://www.communityaction.us/job-openings for full job description and information regarding benefits. Please let them know you heard about this opportunity from the MassHire Franklin Hampshire Career Center.