Public Benefit Specialist

PUBLIC BENEFIT SPECIALIST (4 POSITIONS).

The Full -time Public Benefits Specialist is responsible for providing in-language education, navigation, and case management to support low-income, limited English-speaking immigrant community members to access a full range of public benefits and related services, which includes ongoing case management and support.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES :

Provide intake, assessment, and navigation to support eligible immigrants and refugees to apply for a full range of public benefits, including Medicaid, All Kids, SNAP, Benefits Access, VTTC applications, and CEDA applications (LIHEAP, PIPP, etc.

including support for other community social services.

• Conduct ongoing case management and hold virtual and on-site meetings with community members and their family members to develop client-directed service plans and periodic follow-up appointments to assess progress toward goals.
• Responsible for day-to-day client scheduling and delivery of public benefits services and associated case management for social services including assist individuals in understanding the public benefits they are eligible for.
• Conduct intensive interviews to determine eligibility / re-eligibility for financial, medical and / or food assistance benefits along with other social services.
• Explain program requirements, application procedures, and services available.
• Advocate and mediate with DHS and other agency staff to help community members understand eligibility criteria, problem-solve, and maintain benefits once received.
• Effectively communicating with the patient to obtain documents that must accompany the application.
• Maintain an active case load of public benefits and case management applicants and conduct appropriate follow-up to ensure that all benefits are received and utilized.
• Assist community members in creating emergency preparedness plans and accompaniment to access public services when needed.
• Perform on-going case management to provide service and problem-solving assistance.
• Keep daily records of client phone calls, accurate and thorough client files, and case notes, enter data into the SSPB data sheet, Salesforce, and use Charity Tracker to ensure we meet our grant objectives.
• Manage data integrity and governance in the Counselor MPACT PRO, Salesforce, and other required database systems.
• Works closely with social services and case management staff to determine start dates for benefits based on determinations that a client meets functional requirements for certain cash and long-term services and support programs.
• Identify and develop community resources to expand public benefits and health programs, including resources for undocumented community members.
• Attend and participate in required educational programs and staff meetings.
• Track and monitor progress of applications to ensure they are approved, and individuals receive benefits.
• Actively participate in all funder trainings and workshops.
• Attend public education workshops regarding important immigration, health issues facing the community, and public benefits to enroll individuals in public benefits.
• Provide general information to community members on community resources, immigration relief options, know-your-rights information, public benefits and general health / nutrition development through tabling, canvassing, and presence in the community.
• Process and prepares timely reports on clients for periodic outcome reviews and program audits for ENH staff and funders as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS :

• Commitment to immigrant rights and social, economic, and racial justice.
• A belief in communities’ ability to support each other, organize, and achieve desired goals together.
• Bachelor’s Degree preferred or demonstrated and significant experience in working with immigrant communities and understanding public benefit services and their interaction with the immigration system.
• Written and oral fluency in English and Spanish required.
• Ability to prioritize and juggle multiple projects simultaneously and independently, often under pressure and in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to stay organized, manage a high volume workload, and work under strict deadlines.
• Sensitivity to the needs and legal issues affecting people of diverse backgrounds.
• Excellent professional judgment and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and case management software preferred.
• Demonstrated commitment to social justice and sensitivity to challenges of the immigrant community.
• The availability to work a flexible schedule that will include evening and weekend hours required.
• Reliable transportation is required in order to travel between work sites, partner agencies, workshops, and outreach events.

TEAM MEMBER BENEFITS

• Compensation of $21.00 / hour.
• Work / life integration :
• Generous paid time off.
• Full Time employee.
• 12 accrued sick days per year.
• 3 personal days.
• Paid birthday off.
• 8 paid holidays, including Juneteenth.
• In addition to above paid holidays, paid week off between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day.
• Vacation :
• Year 1 8 days.
• Year 2 13 days.
• Year 3 + 20 days.
• Access to alternative and flexible work schedules and personal leave, where possible.
• Two-weeks fully paid Parental Leave, for eligible employees.
• Time off for school conferences and activities as well as bereavement leave.
• Professional Development :
• Employer-sponsored learning and development programs.
• Paid day off annually for personal professional development.
• Tuition Assistance & Debt Relief Program, as budget allows.
• DEI Council-sponsored education and engagement series.
• Wellness support :
• Employer-sponsored health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Employer-paid life insurance.
• Voluntary life and AD&D and short and long-term disability.
• Flexible Spending Accounts for medical, vision and dependent care.
• 403b with employer match.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Yoga, Zumba and Book Club, when onsite.

CBU STATUS : Union / Non Exempt.

Erie Neighborhood House is dedicated to creating a workforce that promotes and supports diversity and inclusion. We provide equal employment opportunities to all individuals without discrimination.

Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact us at [email protected].

NO TELEPHONE CALLS PLEASE!

MUST BE A MEMBER OF AFSCME OR JOIN AFTER 30 DAYS.

ERIE NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

ACCREDITED BY NAEYC & NATIONAL AFTER SCHOOL ASSOCIATION.

RECOGNIZED BY DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE.

About Erie Neighborhood House :

Since 1870, Erie Neighborhood House has provided the most comprehensive support immigrant and low-income families in Chicago need to thrive and has constantly evolved to meet their needs.

Today, Erie House is a modern social services nonprofit with programming and resources for children & youth, mental health & community wellness, adult education & training, legal services, and more.