What are the responsibilities and job description for the Outreach Case Worker position at Buffalo Urban League?
Job Details
Description
Compensation - $50,000
The Buffalo United Resiliency Center (BURC) was created to provide a safe space for families and survivors of the horrific TOPS massacre on 5/14/2022. BURC under the operations of The Buffalo Urban League (BUL) is devoted to promoting mental and emotional wellbeing by providing opportunities for people to come together, find support, restore the community’s sense of safety and security, and help each other heal. BURC provides a centralized place for victims to have their needs identified and be supported to efficiently access services. BURC will proactively support and respond to victims who often experience reactions to shootings in response to significant anniversaries or events, such as events within the community that increase stress and awareness of the passage of time (graduations, holidays, festivals) and incidents that occur around the world that trigger reactions for victims.
Position Summary:
The Outreach Case Worker will be out in the community, including community members’ homes to provide BURC services of assessment, referral, linkage, advocacy, monitoring, and evaluation. In addition, the incumbent will be instrumental in assisting the roll out and administration of BURC’s Food Pantry.
General Duties:
- Facilitates in person and digital outreach activities.
- Facilitates activities to promote community wellness through restorative, wellness, and empowerment workshops.
- Provides emotional support and related services.
- Provides direct services such as assisting community members to apply public benefits.
- Provides advocacy and accompaniment through criminal and civil justice proceedings.
- Represents program in the community and networks with other agencies and partners to ensure the needs of community members are met.
- Organizes and attends outreach tabling at community events.
- Works with individuals, families, and groups to provide outreach, emotional support, counseling support, public education, wraparound services, and referrals when needed.
- Provides presentations to community groups on disaster reactions, coping skills, and stress management.
- Advocates on behalf of the client to ensure needed services are obtained.
- Utilizes motivational interviewing techniques to increase likelihood of engagement.
- Develops and distributes educational materials.
- Drives BURC’s twelve passenger van or personal vehicle (with mileage reimbursement) for purpose of transporting clients in the community and/or site visits and food pantry delivery (client or work related).
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Associate or bachelor’s degree (preferred) in mental health or human services or related field; and at least one year experience in case management or implementing client services or high school diploma (GED) plus (4) years of experience in a Mental Health or Human Services setting.
- Working knowledge of computers and computer software.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Demonstrated resilience.
- Demonstrated ability to follow a process.
- Culturally competent and trauma informed.
- The ability to carry out assignments without direct supervision.
- Any foreign languages spoken, a plus.
- Valid Driver’s License, Insurance, and daily access to a vehicle.
- The ability to lift and carry 35 pounds, drive and enter homes, climb stairs, etc.
- Ability to work flexible hours.
Competencies:
- Strong interpersonal and empathy skills, along with the ability to relate well with clients, staff, and others.
- Ability to maintain professional while communicating in a warm caring and non-judgmental manner to individuals and families.
- Comfort level in working in the community most of the time, including driving members for BURC related events, and being in community members’ homes.
- Ability to work effectively in collaboration with diverse groups of people. Team player who can work effectively with peers and other associates.
- Demonstrated pro-active work competencies.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills, both written and verbal.
- Working knowledge of computers and computer software and programs.
Salary : $50,000
