Referral Specialist, Department of Indian Work

Deadline: August 26, 2020

Position Purpose

The purpose of this position is to assist our program participants in gaining access to and connections with programs, goods, services, and educational opportunities that will help them meet their basic needs and then help them make progress towards their economic mobility goals.   This work will include Bridge to Benefits screening to help our clients gain access to the public benefits they are entitled to; MNSure assessment to gain access to health insurance; and information about and warm referrals to other social service agencies, both in the American Indian community and in the larger community (shelter resources, housing resources, job training programs, legal aid clinics, health clinics, financial planning clinics, and more). This position requires a high level of motivation, attention to detail, excellent oral and interpersonal communication skills and the ability to use an electronic data system.

Position Functions/Relationships

This person reports directly to the Director of the Department of Indian Work and is daily supervised by the Emergency Services Coordinator. This person works with the staff of the Department of Indian Work and Interfaith Action of Greater Saint Paul.

Accountabilities

This position requires knowledge of food distribution, data systems, referral sources and work with families in poverty.

  • Ability to interact with food shelf participants with respect and efficiency.
  • Ability to engage in outreach for the food shelf and speak to individuals and groups about hunger and the efforts of the DIW to provide food and clothing resources.
  • Ability to follow funding guidelines, maintain accurate records, and provide statistics for reports. This includes use of an electronic database for client records and electronic inventory control.
  • Ability to use computer (Word, Windows, Excel, etc.) for communication and record-keeping.
  • Ability to refer clients to additional resources in the community, using electronic websites (e.g. Bridge to Benefits) and to follow-up on referrals to track success.
  • Familiarity with community-based resources like SNAP, United Way 211, AIFC, LSS, Minnesota Food Helpline, etc. This includes participation in advocacy efforts related to eliminating hunger and food scarcity.
  • Ability to assist with food shelf services as needed.
  • Ability to work effectively without direct supervision and to function well as a team member.
  • Ability to work collaboratively on inter-agency projects.
  • Ability to develop resource catalog and update as needed
  • Performs other duties as may be assigned from time to time by the Director of the Department of Indian Work.

Other Qualifications

  • Familiarity with and previous experience working in the American Indian community is desired
  • Experience in social service work and knowledge of community-based social services
  • Some college-level studies preferred
  • Ability to work and relate to people effectively in a multicultural work environment within a faith-based non-profit setting.

Classification

This is a non- exempt, part-time position 24 hours/week at $14/hour. Interfaith Action is an Affirmative Action Equal Opportunity Employer. Please send resumes to Peter Olsen at Polsen@interfaithaction.org