What are the responsibilities and job description for the Social Services Assistant position at The Salvation Army?
Location Greater Hartford Area Services, Hartford North End Corps (Hartford, CT)
Status Part-time
Hours Per Week 28
Schedule Mon - Thur, 830 am - 200 pm; Fri, 830 am - 230 pm
Purpose of Position Provide various services to individuals in need, including food and personal hygiene items, clothing, furniture vouchers, rent and utility assistance, referrals to community resources, and seasonal programming. Assist clients with identifying and addressing the root causes of their situation. Work with Corps Officer(s) to coordinate aspects of the food pantry following established policies and procedures.
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
Status Part-time
Hours Per Week 28
Schedule Mon - Thur, 830 am - 200 pm; Fri, 830 am - 230 pm
Purpose of Position Provide various services to individuals in need, including food and personal hygiene items, clothing, furniture vouchers, rent and utility assistance, referrals to community resources, and seasonal programming. Assist clients with identifying and addressing the root causes of their situation. Work with Corps Officer(s) to coordinate aspects of the food pantry following established policies and procedures.
- Demonstrate respect and professionalism with clients, staff, community reps, and volunteers.
- Maintain confidentiality in all job-related matters.
- Participate in training, seminars, workshops, and other educational opportunities that would enhance the skills related to this position.
- Administer and supervise the daily operation of the Emergency Assistance Program, including interviews, referrals, and client assistance.
- Coordinate voucher program for shelter, clothing, and furniture.
- Greet clients and provide them with the necessary forms to be assisted.
- Make appointments for clients needing services.
- Maintain a database of community resources to refer clients to other locations that may help address their needs.
- Perform interviews for clients seeking material assistance from The Salvation Army.
- Provide clients with information and referrals to appropriate Salvation Army programs and other community resources.
- Refer clients seeking spiritual guidance to the Corps Officers.
- Inform local community agencies and other appropriate sources about the goals and objectives of the Emergency Assistance Program.
- Keep abreast of community issues and services by visiting other community agencies, as requested by the supervisor.
- Coordinate all aspects of the food pantry following established policies, including ordering food, regulating temperatures, ensuring the appropriate paperwork is completed and maintained, and submitting monthly statistics.
- Order all food and related items to stock the food pantry adequately.
- Store all foods neatly upon delivery.
- Answer phones appropriately and on time; filter out telemarketers, take messages, and manage incoming faxes.
- Assist in the daily maintenance of the social services office organization, including typing, filing, mailing preparation, ordering supplies, etc.
- Check emails daily and respond accordingly and promptly.
- Maintain a clean, orderly desk and office area and keep confidential information secure.
- Assist in the application process for the Corps’ summer activities, camper registration, and Vacation Bible School registration.
- Assist in coordinating various social services programs, activities, and services, including seasonal programming such as Youth Camp, Senior Camp, Adopt-a-Family, Angel Tree, and Holiday Meals.
- Complete all documentation timely and accurately, including client case notes, and secure confidential records.
- Maintain accurate records with pertinent information, including client demographics and an action plan.
- A high school diploma or equivalent is required; an associate's or bachelor’s degree in social services or a related field is preferred.
- A minimum of two years of work experience in social services or a related field is required.
- Ability to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing.
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
- Ability to organize responsibilities, multitask, and function independently.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment.
- Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred; proficient in spoken and written English.
- Demonstrate ability to engage with diverse populations.
- Demonstrate discretion, integrity, and confidentiality in dealing with all matters.
- Detail-oriented with keen attention to accuracy and confidentiality.
- Excellent time management skills.
- High energy level, solid work ethic, and ability to respond to changing conditions.
- Knowledge of community resources.
- Must complete KeepSAfe and other training requirements upon hire.
- Strong customer service skills.
- Works well in a team atmosphere.
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Office.
- Valid driver’s license and clean driving record are highly preferred.
- Will respect and promote the interest of The Salvation Army. The individual is not required to embrace the tenets of faith, but they are required to promote and respect the mission of The Salvation Army.
- Employer-funded pension plan (100% vested after five years of eligible service)
- Voluntary life insurance
- Short-term disability coverage (no cost to employee)
- Supplemental insurance coverage options (Aflac, homeowners, auto, and pet insurance)
- 403(b) tax-deferred annuity plan
- Generous paid time off, including holidays, vacation, and sick leave
- Eligibility for the Federal Government’s Public Student Loan Forgiveness Program
- Most importantly - a job with a great purpose!
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
