Summary: Case Worker 1 will respond to client phone calls, screening clients to determine eligibility for grants, assisting with referrals to public and local community programs. Client related matters are usually able to be resolved with short-term interventions. Learning basic community resources and referral processes. New to case management databases. Seeking regular/daily guidance from Case Worker 3. A Case Worker 1 role is intended to determine eligibility and assist those who are having a shortfall on meeting their monthly rent and facing possible eviction, and or security deposit when relocating due to a hardship. The Case Worker also assists those who are having a shortfall on meeting their utility bill, or have fallen behind and possibly even facing disconnection. Case Worker 1 should be able to screen and assist with whatever grant/programs that we may have in that particular family center and refer to other agencies if needed. Sustainability moving forward and hardship are crucial in making sure this isn’t a chronic situation and the Case Worker 1 is able to offer the client the tools needed to be more independent without needing services again otherwise, this would only be a band aided situation. There are on occasion cases that don’t fit criteria that may be funded due to the circumstances of the situation, which will always be cleared and approved by the Program Coordinator.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Reflect the mission and vision of Catholic Charities in every encounter with and on behalf of clients and staff.
- Participates in assigned meetings and trainings as related to program. Represent Catholic Charities at regular monthly meetings with State and County officials to report on activities and to advocate for the needs and best interest of the clients.
- Completes all paperwork and reports in a timely manner. Review and enter on appropriate spreadsheets, all clients that are assisted with funds, in keeping track of funding source. Records client information and services provided into data base.
- Food Pantry-Ordering food, preparing food bags and scheduling appointments for clients, stocking shelves and completing monthly reports, required by food bank. Files are updated with each visit and kept in filing cabinet.
- Responding to incoming phone calls in a compassionated and professional manner. Interviews identified clients to assess need for emergency services, and current need for linkage to other community resources.
- Assessment: Assesses financial need, including expenses, financial resources and ability for various public services and supports. Assesses client’s ability to follow through with a plan, including ability to make contacts with other agencies, such as BSS or other network agencies, independently or whether assistance or direct advocacy is required. Assesses adequacy of client documentation for particular funding requirements. Screens for possible presence of additional problem areas, such as substance abuse that could require additional assessment and follow up, and informs Program Coordinator.
- Makes necessary contacts to verify client information. Maintains confidentiality of all client information and services provided at all times, in accordance with the policy of Catholic Charities and state and federal laws.
- Participates in the implementation and ongoing development and continuous improvement of the program.
- Ensures immediate and thorough communication to Program Coordinator of program problems and provide recommended resolution to identified problem.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
- Maintains a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating in a manner that fosters good relationships with customers, clients, external colleagues and management.
Supervisor Responsibilities: None
Qualifications:
- Knowledge of entitlement programs and program regulations, federal, state and community resources and expertise in navigating these resources.
- Commitment to the mission of Catholic Charities.
- Ability to relate directly but, compassionately with people in emergency situations.
- Must possess strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Personal transportation required.
- Has a thorough understanding of all relevant community resources and eligibility or has immediate and ready access to this information.
- Workable knowledge of office software, especially Microsoft Suite and Outlook.
Education and/or experience:
- Entry Level/Minimal to no experience; direct supervision
Language skills:
- Bilingual preferred (English w/Spanish)
- Good Oral communication skills required.
Ability to write clearly and proficiently for completion of documentation
