Family Services Worker in Springfield, Vermont at Southeastern Vermont Community Action Inc

SEVCA's mission is to empower and partner with individuals and communities to alleviate the hardships of poverty, provide opportunities to thrive, and eliminate root causes of poverty in southeastern Vermont. Our core values serve as the foundation for how we work with our communities and each other.

• Respect & Kindness: We treat everyone with dignity and compassion
• Accountability: We do what we say we will do
• Equity & Justice: We strive for fairness and celebrate diversity
• Learning & Growth: We embrace change and invest in growth
• Collaboration: We work together across SEVCA and with our community
• Service Excellence: We put people and community first

Position Summary

The Family Services Worker administers direct client services under both emergency and non-emergency circumstances, providing information and referral, advocacy, and/or available financial assistance in the designated program areas. The position identifies local needs and mobilizes public resources and organizations to address those needs.

Essential Functions

The Family Services Worker:

1. Assesses the client's situation and determines the type of assistance needed; obtains the information and authorization necessary to advocate for and resolve the presenting crisis.
2. Determines income eligibility according to SEVCA intake standards and program-specific guidelines, and assists clients accordingly.
3. Educates and supports clients in accessing resources available through other agencies and in conjunction with SEVCA programs.
4. Educates and encourages clients to use their own resources to seek appropriate services and avoid further crisis; helps clients identify tools and resources to address their own needs.
5. Maintains liaison with community resources and other agencies, and partners with community groups engaged in poverty-prevention work.
6. Maintains and submits required client, grant, and agency documentation to the Family Services Director in a timely manner and in compliance with applicable grant requirements.
7. Defines the needs of low-income clients, incorporating client and community input, to assess the strengths and weaknesses of available client and community resources.
8. Identifies community needs and maintains a consistent presence and schedule at assigned sites to serve clients effectively.
9. Maintains the dignity of, and creates a respectful environment for, low-income clients.

Key Outcomes & Accountabilities

Performance in this role is evaluated against the following standards:

• Direct client service is prioritized; assessments, referrals, and advocacy are delivered promptly and in a manner consistent with SEVCA's service standards.
• Client, grant, and agency documentation is accurate, complete, and submitted within established deadlines; data is entered into agency systems promptly to keep files current.
• Community and agency partnerships are actively maintained, contributing to SEVCA's presence and effectiveness across the communities served.
• SEVCA is represented positively and professionally to clients, partner agencies, and the public; public or media communications are routed through the Family Services Director for review.
• Issues arising outside the norm are communicated promptly to the Family Services Director, Family Services Coordinator, or Executive Director, as appropriate.
• The Family Services Team is engaged as a full, active, and collaborative participant.

Other Functions

1. Performs other duties requested and/or approved by the Family Services Coordinator, Family Services Director, or Executive Director that are consistent with the functions of this position, the Family Services Department, and SEVCA's mission, goals, and priorities.
2. Attends trainings and meetings of relevant agencies and organizations as requested by the Family Services Director or other designated staff.
3. Promotes SEVCA and its services through presentations, workshops, and community educational activities.
4. As feasible, conducts home visits or meets clients at other sites when a client is unable to reach a SEVCA office.
5. Promotes positive public information to counteract and reduce the stigma of poverty.

Working Conditions

Travel to outpost sites, training sessions, workshops, presentations, and meetings is required. Travel to clients' homes may be required on rare occasions. A flexible schedule is sometimes necessary to attend evening workshops or give presentations in the community.

Eligible candidates will meet possess the following criteria:

1. High school diploma and experience in a human services-related field; a bachelor's degree in Human Services, Social Work, or a related field is desirable.
2. Demonstrated sensitivity to the challenges faced by low-income individuals.
3. Ability to work flexible hours and with a diverse variety of people.
4. Excellent oral and written communication skills.
5. Experience with Windows, Microsoft Office, and database systems.
6. Ability to work independently as well as part of a team to ensure quality services to individuals and groups.
7. Working knowledge of the community and its resources.
8. Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
9. Valid driver's license and ability to travel regularly within the designated service area.