Basic Needs Case Manager

BASIC NEEDS CASE MANAGER DESCRIPTION

Centre Helps, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals in crisis or need, is seeking a empathetic and caring Basic Needs Case Manager (BNCM) to join our team. Our organization plays a critical role in the community by providing 24/7 emotional support through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and local hotlines, as well as offering resource navigation, case management, and basic needs services.

As a BNCM you’ll contribute directly to our mission by ensuring our clients are provided with the support they need to overcome their financial crisis. This is an excellent opportunity to be part of an organization that makes a real difference while maintaining a flexible schedule that works for you.

We value diversity and inclusion, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religious creed, gender, gender identity, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, marital status, political affilation, pregnancy, ancestry, immigration status, status as a veteran or member of the armed forces, or disability.

Key Responsibilities

BNCMs provide assessment, support, advocacy, and information and referral services to Centre County individuals experiencing a financial crisis which limits their ability to provide for essential needs. Client needs may be related to housing, food, medical needs, childcare, utilities, employment, budgeting and other unique concerns.

The CRN's Role is to:

• determine eligibility for program services and create an action plan
• advocate on behalf of client to vendors and private charities
• refer to services that meet the needs of the client
• provide emotional support and budget counseling
• network and engage with other community supports to close the service gap

Centre Helps’ Basic Needs program is short-term, generally consisting of one face to face intake appointment and multiple follow ups by phone. We are an agency that is growing and we are looking for a person who is interested in growing with us.

Duties include:

• Detailed and accurate record-keeping
• Establishing and maintaining strong relationships with collaborating organizations
• Active participation in relevant community collaborations and membership organizations
• Leadership and oversight of Centre Helps’ volunteer hotline counselors in relation to basic needs information and referral services
• Support other Centre Helps programming as needed

Qualities desirable to succeed in this position:

• Bachelor’s Degree in related field and one year’s experience OR equivalent experience.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision and to manage fiscal responsibilities
• Experience in program management
• Strong verbal communication skills
• Proactive and diligent problem-solving ability
• Empathy and compassion

Benefits include:

• health insurance
• flexible scheduling
• generous paid time off
• 401 K Retirement Match

Must be willing to work some evenings/weekends (approximately 1-2 times per month)

About Centre Helps

Since 1971, Centre Helps has been a vital support system in Centre County, providing uninterrupted 24/7 hotline services. Originally focused on alcohol and drug intervention, our scope has expanded to include emotional support, crisis intervention, and basic needs assistance, along with information and referrals to community resources. We also handle suicide and crisis calls as part of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. We are committed to delivering unbiased, non-judgmental support, and empowering individuals by validating their feelings and enhancing their interpersonal skills.

At Centre Helps our core values are empathy, empowerment, respect, commitment, and community. We strive to embody these values in all interactions.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $17.00 per hour

Expected hours: 35 – 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Ability to Relocate:

• State College, PA 16801: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person