Burmese Speaking Community Advocate

EMBARC (Ethnic Minorities of Burma Advocacy and Resource Center) is a 501(c)(3) established in 2012 by and for refugees to expand their world of possibilities through advocacy, education and community development. EMBARC seeks to serve as a voice for refugee communities in Iowa and to advocate for their needs.

Overview

The Burmese Community Advocate is responsible for empowering and serving the refugee community by engaging with clients who do not speak English to support their access to systems and resources. This person will provide interpretation and translation, conduct community outreach, connect families to resources, and provide direct services. This position is open for in-person full-time.

Responsibilities

Duties of the Burmese Community Advocate include, but are not limited to:

• Provide interpretation and translations for programs and clients - This will include audio recordings for educational resources
• Assist Program Coordinators/Managers to identify, organize, and implement appropriate outreach and community building strategies related to the Parent Navigator program, Crisis & Advocacy program and unemployment/employment program
• Assist Program Coordinators/Managers in development, coordination and evaluation of various projects under the direct supervision of program manager
• Conduct intake and assessment of client’s needs and barriers and monitor, measure, and document clients progress toward goals
• Initiative ongoing communication with clients to ensure proper continuation of care and understanding of program enrollment/expectations
• Help clients navigate and increase access to community resources and services in a culturally and linguistically appropriate manner
• Attend trainings and engage in professional development opportunities
• Cultivate community partnerships and resources
• Represent EMBARC at meetings, panels, and outreach/education events
• Provide critical feedback on meetings, trainings, and curriculum in order to ensure resources are culturally appropriate/accessible
• Engage in other relevant activities including development, volunteer engagement, office and project support. Perform other job-related duties such as flu clinics and/or other community outreach and cultural events; etc.
• Ongoing and timely collection of data and case notes

Qualifications

• Bilingual in Burmese and English
• High school diploma or GED or equivalent combination of education and experience providing support services to families in need
• Passion and commitment to social justice, human rights, and serving the refugee community
• Commitment to professional and personal growth
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain meaningful relationships based on trust, understanding, patience, and cultural sensitivity
• Must be able to handle private/sensitive information and maintain professional and strict levels of confidentiality
• Ability to analyze, plan, and problem solve effectively
• Ability to multi-task with attention to detail
• Ability to work well independently and collaboratively as part of a team
• Excellent interpersonal skills, self-motivated, committed to excellence
• Willingness to learn new skills and expertise in the advancement of your position

Additional Requirements

• Able to use technology essential to job responsibilities (computer software, data information systems, fax, and internet)
• Must pass a language assessment and video recording
• Valid driver's license, auto insurance, and a good driving record
• A reliable mode of transportation is required
• Must pass an extensive background check, including but not limited to criminal history, child and elderly abuse reports, and sex offender registry
• Some evening/weekend hours may be required for outreach or events, with flexibility to adjust regular schedule
• Some state-wide travel may be required

Expected Hours of Work

EMBARC office hours are held Monday-Friday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. This position would not be expected to be in office at all times - in office time may be determined based on the availability of clients the advocate is supporting. All positions require primarily in-person work.

EMBARC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic background, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, or disability.

Pay: $39,000.00 - $44,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $39,000 - $44,000