SSI Advocate (Short-Term)

NAMI San Diego • El Cajon, CA

7d

About The Position

This position is a short-term, grant-funded project that is expected to end June 30, 2026.
NAMI San Diego & Imperial Counties (National Alliance on Mental Illness) is a nonprofit organization that provides free education, support services, and advocacy to improve the quality of life of everyone affected by mental illnesses.
NAMI San Diego Clubhouses operate under the Clubhouse International Model for psychosocial rehabilitation, with the goal of empowering adults living with mental illness to live vocationally meaningful and socially satisfying lives. Our program provides a uniquely supportive and collaborative Clubhouse setting where Members (program participants) and staff work together to operate all aspects of the organization in an atmosphere built on principles of mutual respect and caring.
As an integral part of the Clubhouse team, the SSI Advocate provides application assistance and education to individuals living with mental illness who are seeking to apply for SSI/SSDI benefits. The SSI Advocate works in partnership with the San Diego BH SSI contractor Program to track application progress, obtain additional documentations, and summit SSI/SSDI applications within a timely manner. The SSI Advocate actively contributes to Clubhouse programming by attending Clubhouse meetings, social events, and other activities designed to foster unique Clubhouse relationships. The SSI Advocate helps members connect with supportive resources within the community and may be required to provide transportation using company vehicles. To be successful in this position, the SSI Advocate must have excellent organizational and time management skills and be able to effectively communicate with all stake holders. This position is located at East Corner Clubhouse.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required. Bachelor's degree in mental health, human resource field, or other related degree, preferred.
• Professional or personal experience working with individuals with individuals with mental illness and/or substance use disorders and with unhoused populations
• A strong, positive viewpoint towards mental health is essential
• Demonstrated ability and desire to work as part of a team
• Values and supports a workplace that honors the community's unique demographic
• Encourages an environment that promotes fairness and belonging for all
• Willingness to support NAMI San Diego & Imperial County mission and values
• Must have a satisfactory driving record.
• Able to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing.
• Proficient in computer software (Microsoft Office, Word, Excel) and web navigation.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Reliable and consistent attendance.

Nice To Haves

• Fluency in English and Spanish preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide Supplemental Security Income (SSI) application assistance and advocacy services as a component of the Clubhouse program including support with the initial applications, reconsideration, and appeals.
• Create and maintain an SSI/SSDI profile for each individual application, including release of information, application progress, and supportive documentation.
• Coordinate and collaborate with SD County BHS SSI Advocacy and Training Contractor program to determine client eligibility, track application progress, obtain additional documentation, and application process.
• Manage multiple responsibilities and diverse personalities, while maintaining a positive and energetic attitude throughout the day.
• Promote self-sufficiency by identifying and reinforcing member strengths, assessing appropriate support, and assisting members to access community resources.
• Support Clubhouse programming as needed, by working side-by-side with members to build meaningful relationships and perform Clubhouse operations.
• Participate in Clubhouse social programming, where evening and weekend coverage may occasionally be required.
• Complete all training courses in a timely manner as required by NAMI SD/IC in accordance with our program contract, including the SD County BHS approved SSI Advocacy Training.
• Other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED