Community Navigator

Organization:            United Way of the Midlands 
Job Title:                    Community Navigator
Department:               211 Programs
FLSA Status:             Full-time, Exempt 
Location:                   Omaha, NE (on-site) 

About United Way of the Midlands:  
Since 1923, United Way of the Midlands (UWM) has served the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro by bringing together the business, government and not-for-profit sectors and raising money to support our community’s most impactful health and human service programs. UWM’s funded programs and direct services – including JAG Nebraska, 211 and the Weatherization Assistance Program – focus on four key areas to improve health and well-being for all, build financial stability and strength, help young people realize their full potential and address urgent needs today to advance a better tomorrow.  At United Way, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to bring their unique perspectives and experiences to the table. 

UWM’s Mission:  
United Way of the Midlands UNITES our community’s CARING SPIRIT to build a STRONGER tomorrow.  

Guiding Principles:  
At United Way of the Midlands, we… 

• Helps individuals identify and access local services, from healthcare to housing, by providing personalized guidance and support. 
• Engages with clients to understand their specific challenges and use that information to help them navigate the resources that will best support their situation. 
• Actively follows up with clients to ensure they are receiving the right services, checking in regularly to address any roadblocks or changes in their needs. 
• Steps in to advocate for clients when needed, ensuring they are able to access services that may be hard to navigate on their own. 
• Maintains clear records on each client’s journey, from initial contact to resource utilization, tracking their success and any further needs. 
• Fosters strong connections with local organizations to ensure clients have smooth access to services and timely support. 
• Supports clients not only with logistical help but also with the emotional aspects of accessing community resources, empowering them throughout the process. 
• Educates individuals about available resources and opportunities, helping bridge gaps in knowledge and encouraging wider participation in local programs. 
• Works closely with various professionals, such as social workers and health providers, to provide holistic support and ensure comprehensive care for clients. 

• Strong communication skills: Ability to clearly explain services, listen actively to clients, and advocate on their behalf with various service providers. 
• Empathy and emotional intelligence: Understanding and sensitivity toward clients' situations, demonstrating compassion while maintaining professional boundaries. 
• Cultural competency: Ability to work effectively with diverse populations and understand different cultural, socioeconomic, and linguistic backgrounds. 
• Problem-solving and critical thinking: Aptitude for identifying challenges clients face and thinking creatively to find solutions or workarounds. 
• Case management experience: Ability to handle multiple cases, track progress, follow up, and ensure services are delivered effectively and on time. 
• Organizational skills: Manage and prioritize a caseload, keep accurate records, and ensure follow-through on all tasks and commitments. 
• Resource knowledge: Familiarity with community resources, government programs, and local service providers to quickly connect clients with the right support. 
• Collaboration and teamwork: Ability to work with a variety of community organizations, service providers, and colleagues to ensure a comprehensive approach to client support. 
• Active listening and patience: Ability to fully listen to clients, understand their needs, and show patience as they work through their challenges. 
• Tech-savvy: Comfortable using databases, case management software, and communication tools to track client progress and coordinate with providers. 
• Crisis management skills: Capability to remain calm and composed in high-stress situations, offering support while de-escalating potential conflicts or emergencies. 
• Time management: Ability to juggle multiple tasks efficiently, ensuring all clients are supported without compromising service quality. 
• Knowledge of MS Office Outlook, Excel, Access and Word Processing software.   
• Must be able to attain certification through the Alliance of Information and Referral Systems (Community Resource Specialist) CRS and Aging and Disabilities certificate within 2 years of employment.  
• Other duties as assigned.  

• High school diploma or GED is required for this position. 
• Associate's degree (preferred) from a College or University and/or;   
• Two to three years’ related experience and/or training in Social Services or Human Services. 
• Case management experience or any other relevant certifications are also considered. 

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer. 
• Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.   
• Ability to communicate clearly in person and over the telephone. 
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.  

How to Apply:  
Please submit your cover letter and resume to resume@UWMidlands.org.
United Way of the Midlands is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.