Community Services Navigator

Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities of SW WA•Vancouver, WA

18h

About The Position

A Community Services Navigator helps Washington residents understand and access supports by providing information, screening for eligibility, and guiding applicants through the WA Cares Fund process. The role conducts assessments, assists with applications, coordinates services with partner agencies, and offers person centered options counseling to connect individuals with the resources that best meet their needs. Navigators maintain accurate documentation, follow state and agency policies, participate in outreach and team activities, and adapt to changing client and program needs to ensure equitable access to long term care services.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in relevant field (e.g., social work, human services) and two years of experience (paid or volunteer) providing direct human services. Consideration may be given to a relevant combination of both education and experience.
Possession of a valid driver’s license and minimum state-required vehicle insurance and have use of reliable transportation.
Ability to simultaneously talk on the phone and type.
Ability to research and propose solutions to a variety of problems presented by clients.
Ability to document services, review and write on paper forms.
Ability to interview clients and others in person and over the telephone to elicit information and obtain client information.
Ability to work independently in the field.
Ability to de-escalate and provide support to callers in crisis.
Knowledge of community resources for older adults, adults with disabilities and caregivers.
Ability to work effectively as a team member with a wide range of diverse staff and community members and to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
Ability to communicate verbally in the English language in face-to-face one-on-one settings, in group settings, by personal computer, or using a telephone.
Ability to communicate effectively with clients using translator or relay services.
Ability to produce written documents with clearly organized thoughts using proper English sentence construction, punctuation, and grammar.
Computer and software skills including Word, Excel and database systems; ability to operate general office equipment; work at a desk using phone and computer for up to eight hours a day.
Ability to travel to and from clients’ homes and other community events and agencies in Southwest Washington which might not be ADA accessible.

Responsibilities

Provide information by phone, email, mail, and in person to the public, healthcare providers, and community organizations about programs and resources for older adults, adults with disabilities, and family caregivers.
Conduct eligibility screening and/or application assistance for multiple programs, services, and benefits; make and follow up on referrals as needed, including connecting individuals to alternative resources if WA Cares is not pursued.
Provide short-term assistance to WA Cares applicants and beneficiaries needing help obtaining services or benefits, including support with forms, benefit navigation, advocacy, referrals, and follow up.
Schedule and conduct WA Cares Fund eligibility assessments in applicants’ homes or over the phone and conduct additional screenings to determine service needs and eligibility.
Interpret assessment findings to guide access to WA Cares services and provide person centered options counseling that results in successful connection to desired services and supports.
Work with other agencies to coordinate client services, resolve client problems, and advocate for applicants while helping them navigate complex systems.
Maintain accurate documentation in computer databases and agency files.
Follow program rules and regulations as directed by Washington Administrative Code (WAC) and state policies, and maintain a clear understanding of, and comply with, all agency policies and procedures.
Develop, maintain, and communicate knowledge of WA Cares Fund program electronic systems.
Participate in team meetings and trainings as required or appropriate, providing input on system issues, service gaps, and barriers to access.
Conduct outreach to promote WA Cares and other agency programs and services, including hosting resource tables at community events and presenting to small audiences.
Build collaborative relationships with community partners to strengthen referral pathways and improve access to long term care supports.
Adapt workflows to address emergencies, coverage needs, and changing client circumstances.
Other duties as assigned