Broome County Outreach Community Health Worker

REACH PROJECT INC•Binghamton, NY

4d•$25 - $26

About The Position

REACH provides low-threshold, harm reduction-oriented primary care through a multidisciplinary, integrated practice to advance its mission of ensuring health equity for people experiencing stigma in the healthcare system. The Community Health Worker (CHW) extends this mission into surrounding communities by providing engagement and support services to individuals who may benefit from connection with REACH or other community services. This position serves Broome County and reports to the Community Outreach and Case Management Supervisor. The CHW is a regular contact for people needing or benefiting from outreach and engagement services. The role includes linking individuals to healthcare and social support services; providing culturally appropriate community health education, assessment, and case management; responding promptly to requests for assistance; and advocating for connections to appropriate services. The CHW builds positive, supportive relationships and works as part of multidisciplinary teams with REACH providers and community service organizations.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least two years of experience working with clients in human services.
At least one year of experience in outreach services, case management, and/or housing navigation and support.
Valid driver’s license.
Satisfactory driving record with no recent moving violations, suspensions, or major infractions.
Experience navigating local medical and social support systems.
Exceptional communication skills.
Knowledge of local and regional community health services.
Strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently, exercise creativity, and attend to detail.
Ability to manage multiple simultaneous responsibilities and adjust priorities accordingly.
Ability to maintain confidentiality of medical, financial, and legal information.
Ability to complete work assignments accurately, independently, and in a timely manner.
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
Ability to handle difficult situations professionally.
Commitment to harm reduction, health equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Nice To Haves

Lived experience is preferred.
Certified Recovery Peer Advocate certification is desired.

Responsibilities

Promote REACH’s mission, vision, and values.
Provide culturally appropriate support services to community-based individuals.
Work with community-based organizations and the REACH outreach team to assess and address individual needs, including social determinants of health.
Help people access information and formal or informal support systems, including web and print materials.
Assist with developing and implementing the organization’s Syringe Service Program (SSP), including documentation and reporting methods, promotional materials, ordering harm reduction supplies, inventory management, and distribution.
Assist with Broome County non-violent outreach and crisis support initiatives.
Help individuals learn to use public transportation independently and accompany participants to medical appointments as needed.
Provide in-house transportation services when appropriate.
Provide non-clinical crisis support after hospitalization, incarceration, or other distressing occurrences.
Educate, engage, and refer individuals with substance use disorder and co-occurring mental health diagnoses regarding recovery approaches, formal recovery supports, and treatment options.
Provide mental health screenings as needed under the supervision of licensed behavioral providers; training is provided as necessary.
Assist with social services applications, processes, and renewals to help assure access to services.
Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings, including daily patient care pre-visit huddles and regular or collaborative meetings with community service providers.
Maintain focused and appropriate progress notes in a timely manner.
Provide case management and/or intensive case management services in residential settings.
Collaborate with the outreach department to staff current outreach grants and initiatives appropriately.
Act as a professional collaborator in the community and workplace.
Provide outreach in collaboration with a supervisor and/or REACH outreach nurse to extend REACH’s mission and services to individuals or community groups interested in and eligible for REACH services.
Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor.