Benefits Assistor

Description

SEVCA’s mission is to empower and partner with individuals and communities to alleviate the hardships of poverty, provide opportunities to thrive, and eliminate root causes of poverty in southeastern Vermont. Our core values serve as the foundation for how we work with our communities and each other:

• •Respect & Kindness: We treat everyone with dignity and compassion
• •Accountability: We do what we say we will do
• •Equity & Justice: We strive for fairness and celebrate diversity
• •Learning & Growth: We embrace change and invest in growth
• •Collaboration: We work together – across SEVCA and with our community
• •Service Excellence: We put people and community first

Position Summary

The Benefits Assistor helps income-eligible individuals and families in Windham and Windsor Counties understand, apply for, and maintain the public benefits they qualify for. This may include health coverage, food assistance, and other essential support programs. This position exists to meet growing demand for dedicated, ongoing benefits navigation that goes beyond what Family Services staff can provide alongside their crisis response and case management caseloads. The Benefits Assistor works closely with other members of the Family Services team, serving as the primary point of contact for clients whose needs are complex or ongoing. This role is central to SEVCA's mission of helping people cope with and move beyond the hardships of poverty. This is a full-time, non-exempt position that is eligible for all benefits.

Primary Responsibilities

• •Obtain and maintain Benefit Assistor certification through the Vermont Department of Vermont Health Access (DVHA)
• •Provide education, enrollment assistance, and health insurance navigation for Medicaid and other Vermont Health Connect programs to SEVCA clients
• •Provide education, application assistance, and outreach for hunger relief programs such as 3SquaresVT (SNAP), Farm to Family Coupons, and Crop Cash
• •Assist clients in applying for and maintaining other benefits programs, including fuel and utility assistance, as needed
• •Serve as the primary point of contact for clients with complex or ongoing benefits needs
• •Advocate for clients with various agencies to apply for and access essential and supportive services, and coordinate efforts with other agencies on the household's behalf
• •Meet with households in a variety of settings outside the office, including their homes and other community locations
• •Travel as needed within Windham and Windsor counties to meet with clients
• •Refer and connect clients to additional SEVCA supports and services
• •Participate in team meetings, case consultations, training opportunities, quality improvement initiatives, and community collaborations to strengthen services and improve client outcomes
• •Work collaboratively with Vermont 211, the Vermont Community Action Partnership, and other organizations providing Benefit Assistor services to maintain consistent data collection, reporting, and overall quality of service
• •Maintain accurate and timely case documentation in accordance with SEVCA policies and funder requirements
• •Other duties as assigned

Job Standards/Accountability

Success in this position is measured by: timely maintenance of DVHA Benefit Assistor certification; accurate, complete, and timely case documentation; the number of households assisted with benefits applications and enrollment; effective coordination and internal referrals to other SEVCA staff and services; and positive client outcomes in accessing and maintaining eligible benefits.

Working Conditions

Work for this position is primarily conducted in the office, in clients' homes, and at community locations throughout Windham and Windsor Counties, and requires regular local travel. The ability to physically navigate these various environments is required. The work involves sitting for extended periods of time, using a computer and other office equipment. It may require occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds, occasional bending, stooping, or reaching for items. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Requirements

• •Bachelor's degree in social work, human services, psychology, sociology, or a related field preferred
• •Minimum of two years of experience in case management, social services, or a related human services field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• •Eligible to obtain and maintain Benefit Assistor certification through the Vermont Department of Vermont Health Access (DVHA)
• •Knowledge of community resources and counseling/social work practices with high-risk populations
• •Understanding of poverty, fair housing, and Vermont landlord/tenant law
• •Effective verbal and written communication skills; bilingual abilities are a plus
• •Excellent organizational skills and ability to maintain accurate documentation while protecting confidential information
• •Proficient in Microsoft Office and standard computer/database applications
• •Ability to interact effectively with a diverse population, including landlords and other social service providers
• •Demonstrated commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment
• •Strong interest in and commitment to the needs of individuals and families with low income
• •Valid driver's license, favorable driving record results, access to dependable transportation, and a willingness to travel within SEVCA's service area

SEVCA is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to recruit a broad pool of candidates for open positions, and to hire and promote qualified individuals whose personal experiences, characteristics, and talents reasonably reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. Our equal employment opportunities apply to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. We encourage applications from women, minority groups, veterans, and people with disabilities. Qualifications for positions are determined by the duties and responsibilities of the position itself.