Veteran's Direct Care Caseworker in Erie, Pennsylvania at Greater Erie Community Action Committee

JOB SUMMARY:

GECAC is seeking a highly organized, compassionate, and self-motivated Veteran Directed Care Caseworker to provide person-centered case management services to veterans enrolled in the Veteran Directed Care (VDC) Program. The VDC Program serves eligible veterans of any age who are at risk of nursing home placement and wish to remain independent in their homes and communities.

The Veteran Directed Care Caseworker is responsible for educating veterans and their representatives about the VDC program; assessing needs; developing, implementing, and monitoring individualized spending plans; coordinating supports and services; and providing ongoing advocacy and guidance. The Caseworker works collaboratively with veterans, caregivers, Fiscal Management Service (FMS) providers, the Veterans Administration Medical Center (VAMC), and community partners to ensure program compliance and successful service delivery.

This position works under the supervision of the Options Supervisor and maintains regular contact with veterans throughout their participation in the program.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conduct initial in-home assessments and reassessments to determine eligibility, service needs, and person-centered goals.
• Educate veterans and caregivers regarding Veteran Directed Care program requirements, participant responsibilities, and available resources.
• Develop, implement, and monitor individualized spending plans based on participant needs and preferences.
• Assist veterans in fulfilling employer responsibilities, including caregiver recruitment, hiring processes, and ongoing workforce management.
• Coordinate and monitor services and supports to help veterans maintain independence and avoid institutional placement.
• Conduct required monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, and annual participant contacts and reassessments.
• Maintain routine communication with veterans, caregivers, Fiscal Management Service staff, VA personnel, healthcare providers, and community partners.
• Review and monitor program expenditures in collaboration with veterans and the Fiscal Management Service provider to ensure compliance with VDC guidelines.
• Maintain accurate client records, assessments, case notes, service authorizations, spending plans, and related documentation within agency databases.
• Prepare required reports and documentation in accordance with agency, funder, and program standards.
• Advocate on behalf of veterans and assist with resolving barriers to care, services, and community supports.
• Participate in outreach activities, community events, staff meetings, and required trainings.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by management to support aging program operations.

REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of HIPAA regulations and confidentiality requirements.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and electronic database systems.
• Knowledge of Medicaid, Medicare, veterans' benefits, and community-based long-term care programs preferred.
• Ability to learn and apply GECAC policies, procedures, and agency database systems.
• Knowledge of community resources and funding opportunities available to veterans, older adults, and individuals with disabilities.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage an independent caseload.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with veterans, families, providers, and community partners.
• Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and make appropriate decisions with minimal supervision.
• Strong advocacy and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to adapt to changing situations and effectively respond during crisis situations.
• Commitment to person-centered service delivery and professional development.

REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSES:

• Valid Pennsylvania Driver's License and reliable transportation required.
• Criminal background clearance required.
• Additional certifications and training may be required in accordance with agency policies and program requirements.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's Degree in Social Work, Human Services, Healthcare, Psychology, Gerontology, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in case management, human services, aging services, disability services, healthcare, or related field preferred.
• Experience working with veterans, older adults, or individuals with disabilities is strongly preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds.
• Ability to walk, climb stairs, and access participant residences and community locations.
• Ability to travel independently throughout the GECAC service area.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

• This is a hybrid position consisting of field-based, remote, and office work.
• Frequent travel is required to conduct assessments, home visits, reassessments, and participant monitoring activities.
• Approximately 50% of work time may be spent conducting community and in-home visits, including travel time.
• Remaining duties include case documentation, spending plan development, service coordination, fiscal monitoring, reporting, and participant follow-up activities.
• Must maintain a flexible work schedule to meet participant and program needs.
• Participation in required trainings, meetings, and professional development activities is mandatory.