Community Resource Advocate - Somali Speaker

Reports to: Housing Program Manager

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Employment Type: Part-time

Compensation: $19-$22

Hour Status: 20 hours

Location: Faribault

Job Summary: The position of Community Advocate will support an organizational culture of a community-based, person-centered, and trauma-responsive environment. The position will respond to the unique needs of participants accessing services through our Resource Center and in the community.

Primary Job Responsibilities: CAC’s success depends on the ability of its staff and volunteers to adjust and adapt as they dynamically meet the needs of the community. Job responsibilities include but are not

limited to:

• General Community Advocacy:

  • Conduct intake to reflect the strengths, needs and challenges identified by individuals and families*
  • Provide appropriate service coordination in response to intake, either through services within CAC or on a referral basis (this may include, but is not limited to: Housing resources, emergency financial assistance, safety planning, county social services, emergency food access, clothing, youth scholarships, transportation, etc.)*
  • Identify service barriers and work to remove them through engagement with the community and by linking participants to formal and informal supports
  • Utilize crisis intervention and conflict resolution skills to support families in need, and maintain safety and security of resource center*
  • Collect data and maintain accurate records for statistical, evaluation and funding purposes, maintaining confidentiality and participant informed choice*
  • Assist participants with requests for financial assistance. Ensure request forms are completed. If a financial request is not approved, assist participants in accessing other community resources.
• MNSure Certification:
  • Obtain MNsure certification through CAC
  • Guide participants in understanding, applying for, and maintaining health insurance coverage.*
• Housing Resource Assistance:
  • Complete housing assessments with individuals or families experiencing homelessness*
  • Connect individuals and families with emergency shelter resources within CAC or externally, as well as short-term hotel placements*
  • Ensure prompt case notes, documentation, and data quality within HMIS (Homeless Management Information Systems) and other organizational data and case management systems*

• Attend team meetings

General Responsibilities:

• Demonstrate commitment to the agency’s mission: “To promote a healthy, caring, and just community for all people through resources, advocacy and volunteer effort.”*

• Employ trauma-responsive, person-centered care practices to create a safe and healing space, build relationships, foster agency and invest in the long-term wellbeing of participants*
• Utilize crisis intervention and conflict resolution skills to support individuals and families in need*
• Follow all mandated reporting laws for vulnerable adults as well as child abuse and neglect*
• Attend and actively participate in regularly scheduled organization and team meetings and trainings

Work Environment and Physical Demands: While performing the duties of this job the employee is regularly required to walk, stand, bend, kneel, use hands to write, and sit for prolonged periods at a desk working on a computer. Employees are subject to a moderate noise level.

Qualifications: CAC is committed to finding the right person for the position, ideal candidates will possess many of the following qualities:

Required qualities:

• Working knowledge of social services and community resources for participants*

• Bilingual in English and Somali (fluent)*
• Excellent interpersonal skills, including both verbal and written communication*
• Experience working alongside diverse populations
• Highly organized and effective in a dynamic fast-paced environment*
• Excellent ability to multi-task and troubleshoot issues*
• Ability to work independently and as a member of a team
• Passion for equity and social justice
• Ability to pass all required background and MVR checks*

Preferred qualities:

• Bachelor’s degree in human services or related field OR 2 years of experience in related field

• Strong knowledge of mental health and/or substance use disorders
• Familiarity with Rice County organizations and resources
• Proficient in Google Suite and Microsoft Office (PowerPoint, Word, and Excel)

Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations:

• Must possess and maintain a valid Minnesota driver’s license

• Must possess Personal Auto Insurance

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. *denotes and essential job function

Compensation: The position is designed as a part-time, 20 hours/week, non-exempt position with a starting rate of $19-22/hour. CAC offers flexible work arrangements, professional development opportunities and a chance to creatively build and implement innovative ideas.

Equal Opportunity: CAC is an equal opportunity organization. CAC believes that the most efficient and effective workplaces include employees from diverse backgrounds. We strive to create a work environment where all employees and individuals, regardless of race, creed, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, public assistance status or veteran status, can succeed and make an impact in the community.