What are the responsibilities and job description for the Community and Overdose Outreach Specialist position at Counseling Services Of Lancaster?
Community and Overdose Outreach Specialist
Organization: Counseling Services of Lancaster
Reports To: Prevention Director
Job Type: Full-time | Exempt
Work Hours: Varied (37.5 hours work week)
Position Summary
The Community and Overdose Outreach Specialist is responsible for the development, implementation, and coordination of prevention programs and strategies aimed at reducing the risk of substance abuse and promoting healthy behaviors within the community. This role will work closely with individuals, families, schools, and local organizations to provide education, resources, and support to prevent alcohol, drug, and tobacco use. The Outreach Specialist will also assess community needs, conduct outreach efforts, and work collaboratively with other agencies (Lancaster Sheriff’s Office) to support a comprehensive prevention strategy. In addition, through the COAP program, this role provides outreach, intensive case management, and long-term engagement services, collaborating with community partners, service providers, and local organizations to deliver supportive services. Across all functions, the promotion of a recovery-oriented, trauma-informed approach to support client engagement and continuity of care is fundamental.
Key Responsibilities
Program Development & Implementation (25%):
o Design, implement, and evaluate substance abuse prevention programs tailored to the needs of the local community.
o Develop and deliver prevention workshops, presentations, and educational sessions on topics such as drug and alcohol awareness, healthy decision-making, and coping skills.
o Use evidence-based practices to create prevention strategies that address risk and protective factors associated with substance abuse.
o Ensure all prevention strategies are being met on a consistent basis
Community Engagement & Outreach (25%):
o Coordinate referrals and services with internal teams and community partners, including medical care, housing, employment, education, treatment, and mental health resources
o Build and maintain relationships with community organizations, schools, local governments, law enforcement, and other stakeholders to promote collaborative prevention efforts and be an advocate for clients.
o Conduct outreach and awareness campaigns to increase public knowledge and understanding of substance abuse issues.
o Serve as a resource and advocate for individuals and families affected by substance abuse.
o Provide overdose prevention tools to clients, community members, and care givers.
Training & Support (15%):
o Provide training and technical assistance to other professionals, volunteers, and community leaders in substance abuse prevention strategies.
o Educate and support families in identifying risk factors for substance abuse and implementing strategies to strengthen protective factors.
Compliance & Documentation (10%) :
o Develop and update individualized documentation based on client needs and recovery goals.
o Maintain consistent client engagement through in-person visits, phone calls, texts, follow-ups, and re-engagement efforts for clients.
o Maintain accurate, timely documentation in compliance with organizational, state, and federal regulatory requirements, including OSUS, DPH, CARF, and DHHS
o Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of prevention activities, participant information, and outcomes.
o Submit reports and documentation as required by funding agencies or organizational leadership.
·Assessment & Data Collection (10%):
o Conduct comprehensive COAP assessments of client needs, strengths, and progress.
o Conduct community needs assessments to identify substance abuse trends, gaps in services, and target populations for prevention efforts.
o Collect, analyze, and report data related to prevention activities and outcomes.
o Monitor the effectiveness of prevention programs and make adjustments as necessary to ensure program goals are met.
Professional Development & Supervision (10%)
o Engage in regular supervision.
o Attend ongoing training, workshops, and continuing education opportunities to strengthen skills.
o Ensure compliance with all confidentiality, legal, and ethical standards.
Other Duties as Assigned (5%)
o Provide additional support to the department or agency as needed to meet organizational goals.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in public health, Psychology, Social Work, or related field.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills are a must.
- Understanding of the impact of substance use and mental health on community wellness.
- Valid driver’s license.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including some evenings and weekend events.
Performance Standards & Expectations
· Strong organizational and time-management abilities with attention to detail.
· Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced, community-facing environment.
· Commitment to confidentiality, professionalism, and high ethical standards.
· Ability to work independently and collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams.
· Maintains dependable attendance and punctuality.
· Actively supports peers and contributes to a collaborative, team-oriented environment.
· Receptive to and applies constructive feedback.
· Represents Counseling Services of Lancaster professionally in all settings.
Comments: This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the job and the general nature and level of work performed by the job holder. However, this job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of qualifications, skills, efforts, duties, responsibilities or working conditions associated with the position.
Pay: $40,000.00 - $45,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Do you have a driver's license?
- Are you willing to accept a salary between $40k-$45k a year?
- Are you willing to meet clients in their home?
Education:
- Bachelor's (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $40,000 - $45,000