Community Wellness Specialist

Buffalo Urban League•Buffalo, NY

3d•$23 - $23

About The Position

The Community Wellness Specialist supports the Buffalo Urban League’s partnership with the Community Mental Health Promotion and Support (COMHPS) program. The program provides emotional support, wellness activities, screenings, and referrals to licensed mental health professionals when needed. It serves community members with emerging or subclinical mental health needs and aims to establish, maintain, and improve individual and community mental health and wellness. The specialist promotes mental health and wellness by engaging individuals and families, providing emotional support, facilitating wellness activities, conducting screenings and needs assessments, and connecting people with appropriate professional or community resources. The role also represents the program in the community, supports families through education, and maintains accurate and secure client records.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least one year of experience in a mental health, public health, or human services setting.
Proficiency in data entry and database management, with the ability to learn and use the reporting system.
Strong verbal and written communication skills for engaging diverse populations and presenting effectively.
Empathy, active listening, and the ability to build trusting relationships with individuals and families.
Valid driver’s license and insurance, and access to reliable transportation.
Ability to work independently, take initiative, and direct one’s own work.
Availability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as needed.
Demonstrated cultural competence and inclusivity when working with diverse populations.
Strong work ethic, emotional intelligence, and a client-centered approach with commitment to follow-through.
Ability to collaborate with peers and community partners in a team-oriented environment.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other digital tools for data management and communication.

Nice To Haves

Associate or bachelor’s degree in Mental Health, Human Services, or a related field.
Multilingual abilities.

Responsibilities

Facilitate in-person and virtual outreach activities to engage diverse individuals and families.
Advocate for clients to help ensure they access necessary services and support.
Develop and distribute educational materials about the COMHPS program and its services.
Organize and lead wellness activities focused on stress reduction, emotional resilience, and community well-being.
Deliver presentations to community groups on mental health awareness, coping strategies, and wellness practices.
Represent the program in the community, network, and build partnerships with local organizations.
Collaborate with community stakeholders to expand the program’s reach and address clients’ diverse needs.
Conduct family-focused educational sessions about mental health challenges and coping strategies.
Offer emotional support to families navigating mental health-related concerns.
Provide brief individual emotional support and facilitate group support sessions for people experiencing stress, anxiety, or other mental health challenges.
Use motivational interviewing techniques to encourage client engagement and participation in wellness activities.
Conduct needs assessments to evaluate clients’ mental health and wellness needs.
Provide screenings and refer clients to licensed mental health professionals or other appropriate resources.
Enter and manage client data in databases and spreadsheets.
Meet reporting requirements and maintain secure, organized records.