Benefits Access Specialist

Benefits Access Specialist The West Central Illinois Aging Network, encompassing Adams, Brown, Calhoun, Hancock, Pike, and Schuyler Counties, includes service providers that connect adults aged 60+, people with disabilities, and family caregivers with resources that support safety, security, and independence in the community. Key partners include the West Central Illinois Area Agency on Aging and West Central Illinois Aging and Disability Resource Center. The Benefits Access Specialist will work directly with community members seeking assistance. Day-to-day responsibilities will include responding to requests for information, reviewing benefit/service options with clients, helping with applications, conducting check-ins with clients to see if additional support is needed, making referrals to other agencies when appropriate, and general advocacy for clients. Work with clients will be person-centered, with emphasis on problem-solving and identifying resources that best meet the client’s needs. Participation in outreach and educational activities, training to achieve certification(s), and continuing education are also expected. The primary work location will be at the Pike County Aging and Disability Resource Center office in Pittsfield, Illinois. The Benefits Access Specialist will develop a thorough knowledge and understanding of services and benefits of importance to our client audiences, including, but not limited to: · Medicaid and Medicare · Housing Options (Affordable Housing, Assisted Living, Supportive Living, Skilled Nursing) · In-Home Services (Homemaker Services under the Community Care Program) · Senior Nutrition Programs · Transportation Services · Financial Assistance Programs (Energy Assistance, Discount License Plate Sticker, Property Tax discounts; programs available to eligible people with Medicare) · Family Caregiver Support programs · Programs and services available through community partner agencies This is a hands-on, person-first position. You will work with many generations of people, from grandkids helping grandparents, to adult children helping aging parents while raising their own families, to entirely independent older adults. In addition to clients, you will routinely engage with representatives of community agencies, state and federal agencies, healthcare providers, vendors, staff, residents, and visitors. To work successfully with these audiences, you will need to be: · Friendly, courteous, empathetic, and patient · Respectful and professional in all your interactions · A great listener and communicator We’re also looking for someone who is: · A self-starter who works well in a team environment · Shows strong leadership and supervisory skills · Able to make independent decisions when needed · Readily adaptable to challenging/changing situations · Capable of preparing accurate reports and meeting deadlines · Attentive to detail · Able to adhere to strict confidentiality standards Basic Requirements: · Minimum of High School Diploma or equivalent · At least twenty-one (21) years of age · Valid Driver’s License · Must pass a criminal background check · Experience with Microsoft Office; ability to use basic office machines · Proficient/quick learner with technology West Central Illinois Area Agency on Aging is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Older adults, veterans, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Job Type: Part-time Pay: Up to $16.00 per hour Expected hours: 20 per week Benefits: 401(k) 401(k) matching Paid time off Schedule: 4 hour shift Day shift Experience: Customer service: 1 year (Required) Ability to Relocate: Pittsfield, IL 62363: Relocate before starting work (Required) Work Location: In person