Resource and Referral Specialist

Summary: Provides direct client services, including utility assistance, rental assistance, service information, coordination, and referral. Responsible for community engagement; and participation in other agency activities as assigned. Essential Duties:Direct ServicesMaintains office hours as required for Outreach location; greets public; and answers the phone; observing professional and courteous customer service relations at all times.Assesses client's needs, both immediate and long range, to determine the best plan of service.Determines eligibility, completes intake and statistical information relevant to the application process.Determines eligibility and provides services according to program guidelines or refers to other appropriate agencies when agency resources are unavailable.Maintains familiarity of agency programs and community resources to facilitate client referrals.Tracks services provided and generates and maintains detailed records of services to ensure each file contains Agency forms, income verification, appropriate vendor information, record of services provided, and other information required.Maintains system of record keeping and organization of client case files and other necessary documentation that is legible, chronological, and stored in a secure location to ensure client confidentiality.Enters all client information into the EmpowOR data collection system.Observes agency confidentiality policies regarding participants, records, technology, reports, staff, and volunteers.Assists in organizing local fund-raising events.Performs home visits to client's homes as needed to ensure access to agency services.Initiates referrals to Community Services Specialists for clients who may be eligible for additional services and/or supports.Community EngagementWith approval from supervisor, participates in community and agency meetings/events including county Human Services Council/Inter-Agency activities, when available.Will participate and engage in Community Engagement Committee meetings when available.Informs the community, other service organizations, agency staff, and prospective clients of services conducted through the community service office.Participates in general community events with approval from supervisor to increase awareness of community resources and services. May participate on committees or boards of other organizations with approval from supervisor.Establishes and maintains cooperative working relationships with community partners, vendors, volunteers, local governments(s), and other organizations.Other Duties/ResponsibilitiesPrepares accurate, legible reports according to guidelines and as requested by supervisor.Maintains an updated and accurate list of appropriate referral agencies.Maintains up to date and accurate information in the EmpowOR System.Participates in required training and other professional development activities as requested.Provides meal delivery for Aging programs and transportation for clients on behalf of the Health and Wellness Center as time allows and directed by supervisor.Performs other duties as assigned by Supervisor.Education, Experience & Training:High School diploma required. Prior experience working with client population and knowledge of Community Action programs and local resources strongly preferred; must be proficient in most computer applications; including Microsoft Office (Internet, Word, Excel, PowerPoint). Excellent oral and written communication skills required and must have the ability to prioritize, plan, and organize work efficiently.Physical Demands:The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Position requires occasional or frequent moderate physical activity. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, and use hands to manipulate, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to lift and/or exert force up to 50 pounds. Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment. Extended periods of time sitting in front of computer.Other Requirements:Must have a valid driver's license and the flexibility and willingness to change schedules and duties as needed according to staff availability. Must be willing to travel the service area as needed. Travel is primarily local or within the service area during the business day, although some out-of-the-area and overnight travel may be expected.