Outreach Worker

The Daily Planet • Richmond, VA

6h

About The Position

About the Role: The Outreach Worker plays a critical role in connecting underserved and vulnerable populations with essential community resources and support services. This position involves engaging directly with individuals and groups in various settings to assess needs, provide information, and facilitate access to healthcare, housing, employment, and social services. The Outreach Worker acts as a trusted liaison between clients and service providers, advocating for client needs and helping to overcome barriers to service utilization. Success in this role requires building strong relationships within the community and collaborating with local organizations to develop effective outreach strategies. Ultimately, the Outreach Worker contributes to improving the well-being and quality of life for individuals by promoting empowerment, inclusion, and access to vital resources.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree or higher in social work, human services, or related field preferred.
• At least one year of experience working in community outreach, social services, or a related area.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to engage diverse populations.
• Reliable transportation to travel within assigned outreach areas.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and demonstrate cultural sensitivity and professionalism.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, public health, or a related discipline.
• Familiarity with cross-organizational databases that support individuals experiencing homelessness.
• Experience working with vulnerable populations such as individuals experiencing homeless, youth, or those with substance use disorders.
• Familiarity with local community resources, social service systems, and healthcare providers.
• Training or certification in crisis intervention, motivational interviewing, or case management.
• Bilingual proficiency, particularly in Spanish or other commonly spoken languages in the community.

Responsibilities

• Conduct outreach activities in community settings such as shelters, clinics, schools, and public spaces to identify individuals in need of support.
• Assess client needs through interviews and observations, and develop individualized plans to connect them with appropriate services.
• Provide education and information about available community resources, programs, and eligibility criteria.
• Advocate on behalf of clients to help them navigate complex systems including healthcare, housing, and social services.
• Maintain accurate records of client interactions, outreach efforts, and outcomes to monitor progress and report to supervisors.
• Collaborate with community partners, service providers, and local agencies to coordinate care and improve service delivery.
• Participate in community events and forums to raise awareness about available resources and promote outreach initiatives.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED