What are the responsibilities and job description for the Spanish-Speaking Community Health Worker (CHW) position at DevNW?
DevNW and our CDFI partner, Community Lending Works (CLW) are fostering vibrant, inclusive
communities by prioritizing housing, asset development, wealth building, and small business
development. To do this work we are deconstructing pervasive systems of oppression such as racism, classism, or sexism that maintain persistent disparities and perpetuate deep imbalances in power, opportunity, and wealth.
To excel in this position, you will need these essential lenses:
- Recognize institutional, structural, and systemic barriers that many households face, especially those of marginalized communities and/or identities, as the impact on housing and asset-building opportunities compromises stability.
- Thorough understanding of systems of affordable housing, basic needs services, health systems, and wider supportive service network to support tenants in navigating complex systems to access resources.
- Support residents in navigating notices of concerns and other issues that arise with the Property Management Staff.
- Understanding trauma-informed care as a practice integrated into delivering services sensitive to each participant’s life experience.
It is CRITICAL that you have…
- Written and verbal fluency in Spanish and English
- Working knowledge of housing supports and supportive services in addition to an ongoing practice of continuous learning (professional development opportunities provided)
- Experience working with children and/or youth
- Must be able to independently plan and organize case management follow-up while keeping the Program Supervisor and the Director of Housing Operations aware and informed.
- Experience engaging identities that are often marginalized, such as folks of LGBTQIA , persons of color/BIPOC, parents or expecting, consumers of mental health, survivors of sex trafficking and exploitation, etc.
- Comfort using client reporting databases such as Family Metrics, social media, apps, and client management software.
- Collaborate across the organization and with external partners to develop and execute integrated program approaches.
- Flexibility with time management and day-to-day prioritization of tasks based on participant needs.
- The ability to work the occasional evenings for community events.
- Develop, foster, and implement relationships with local, state, and national organizations to support program objectives and strategic goals.
- A sense of humor, firm boundaries, and excellent self-care practices.
Example tasks/responsibilities for the Community Health Worker:
- Conduct relevant, targeted outreach based using participant criteria.
- Complete a thorough assessment for households to determine existing services they are receiving, social service gaps, and additional connections needed.
- Provide support such as direct coaching, connecting with resources, and coordinating multiple service providers toward long-term outcomes.
- Support tenants in navigating their lease, the healthcare system, and other services.
- Work with tenants in addressing barriers to housing to create sustained stability. Connect with Property Managers and external providers to build relationships, address barriers, and provide eviction prevention services.
- Coordinate internal and external referrals and maintain intra-agency and inter-agency relationships.
- Coordinate classes and small group workshops about various life skills topics, including education, employment, and financial well-being.
- Participated in both internal and external meetings.
- Maintain complete and accurate client files.
It is GREAT if you have…
- Experience working with residents in crisis.
- A Community Health Worker Certification
- Knowledge of fair housing and tenant/property laws
It is a BONUS if you also have…
- Personal experience facing housing or financial instability.
- Lived experience as a member of a historically marginalized community.
Apply for this opportunity to support DevNW’s suite of programs and services by providing an introduction letter or email detailing your interest that includes the following to mel.shea@devnw.org:
- Describe how your journey thus far has prepared you for the Critical Contributions of this
- position.
- Please provide an example where you supported a person(s) to navigate housing instability and
- systems of care such as SNAP benefits, Medicaid/Medical Insurance, and/or Educational
- Supports.
- Current resume
DevNW is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. All qualified persons are encouraged to apply. Applications for employment will be considered without regard to race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, age, disability, and any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every one of the qualifications listed. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. If you meet key qualifications for the job, and believe you would be the best fit, we would encourage you to apply; please use your cover letter or introductory email to explain how you will accomplish parts of the job for which you have less experience. If you are unsure whether you meet the qualifications of this position, please feel free to contact us.
DevNW values diversity and supports a welcoming, inclusive environment where all of our employees can thrive. We value a workforce that is representative of the communities we serve.
Salary : $47,950 - $57,450
