Community Outreach Worker (EFNEP) - University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign•Chicago, IL

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Community Outreach Worker (EFNEP) position with University of Illinois Extension is responsible for teaching classes and providing information to local community members, both adults and youth, on basic nutrition, physical activity, and food purchasing for individuals and families in need. The primary goal is to assist EFNEP eligible families in making positive health changes. This role involves significant community engagement and collaboration with team members and other local agencies to support program goals and client needs.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
One (1) year (12 months) of experience (paid or unpaid) in work related to the job.
Ability to take and pass the Certified Food Protection Manager course within the first year of employment and maintain certification every five (5) years.

Nice To Haves

Valid driver’s license.
Knowledge of the local community and ability to travel to community locations in a timely manner.
Ability to interact and engage with all individuals and groups.
Outgoing and self-driven.
Ability to build rapport and connection with clients empathetically.
Willingness to effectively communicate and validate client feelings.
Show kindness.
Willingness to learn and understand new material.
Ability to communicate effectively in person and digitally (texting, phone calls, emails, video conferencing).
Strong people skills and teamwork.
Basic skills in using computer software and apps.

Responsibilities

Teach programs for youth and adults using EFNEP curriculum and materials.
Gather and shop for program materials, prep food, and lead basic cooking and physical activities at community sites.
Develop relationships and provide approved nutrition education materials and resources to community members and organizations.
Promote EFNEP and Extension opportunities in targeted communities.
Collaborate with team members to plan and monitor unit and EFNEP goals.
Refer EFNEP clients to other local agencies and Extension staff based on additional needs.
Collaborate with team members to identify potential community partners serving low-income families.
Participate in committees and teams to provide feedback for EFNEP program improvement.
Collect information from program participants for reports.
Complete required monthly and quarterly reports.
Participate in local, regional, and statewide professional development opportunities and staff meetings.
Comply with all University of Illinois Extension and USDA policies and procedures.
Perform other duties that contribute to the mission of University of Illinois Extension programming.
Assist unit staff with gathering program participant demographic information for civil rights reporting compliance.