Public Benefits Coordinator

Description

Since 1870, Erie Neighborhood House has provided the most comprehensive support immigrant and low-income families in Chicago need to thrive and has constantly evolved to meet their needs. Today, Erie House is a modern social services nonprofit with programming and resources for children and youth, mental health and community wellness, adult education and training, legal services, and more. Through these programs, we empower the people we work alongside to build powerful communities.

Erie Neighborhood House, a progressive social service agency serving the Chicago metropolitan area and dedicated to promoting a just and inclusive society. Erie Neighborhood House is seeking a full-time temporary Site Coordinator who is responsible for the day-to-day operations of migrant support and volunteer coordination for migrants in collaborating shelter sites. 

Position Summary:

The Public Benefits Coordinator is responsible for facilitating access to public assistance programs and services, ensuring individuals and communities receive the support they need. This non-managerial position focuses on advocating for beneficiaries, streamlining processes, and maintaining up-to-date knowledge of relevant public benefit programs. 

Key Responsibilities. 

• Serve as a liaison between clients and public assistance agencies to ensure understanding of available benefits.
• Advocate for clients to navigate bureaucratic processes and address challenges in accessing benefits.
• Assess individuals' eligibility for various public assistance programs based on established criteria.
• Stay informed about changes in eligibility requirements and communicate updates to clients.
• Guide clients through the application process for benefits such as Medicaid, SNAP, VTTC, EBT, Mom and Babies, and other relevant programs. 
• Assist in the completion of necessary documentation and forms/applications. 
• Collaborate with community organizations and social service agencies to expand resource networks for clients
• Maintain an updated database of available resources and referral pathways.
• Conduct outreach programs to inform the community about available Public Benefits.
• Provide educational materials and workshops on eligibility criteria, application procedures, and program changes.
• When necessary, manage caseload, ensure file compliance, ensure timely follow-up on applications and resolving issues.
• Document interactions, updates, and outcomes accurately for reporting purposes in Salesforce and any other client management systems. 
• Stay informed about local, state, and federal policies affecting Public Benefits.
• Advocate for changes that enhance accessibility and effectiveness of public assistance programs.

Requirements

• At least 2 years of demonstrated and significant experience in working with immigrant communities and understanding public benefit services and their interaction with the immigration system
• Trained Interpreter Preferred (Spanish)
• Written and oral fluency in English and Spanish required
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to prioritize and juggle multiple projects simultaneously and independently, often under pressure and in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to stay organized and work under strict deadlines
• Sensitivity to the needs and legal issues affecting people of diverse backgrounds
• Excellent professional judgment and interpersonal skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and case management software preferred
• Demonstrated commitment to social justice and sensitivity to challenges of the immigrant community.
• The availability to work a flexible schedule that will include evening and weekend hours required.
• Bachelor's degree in social work, public administration, or related field preferred
• Travel required for outreach activities, training, and program registration events

We are looking for a candidate who has excellent interpersonal skills, strong leadership skills that promote a sense of community, and the ability to develop rapport with individuals across multi-cultural backgrounds. 

TEAM MEMBER BENEFITS 

• Compensation of $24hr; 40 hours/week
• Work / life integration 
  • Generous paid time off  

(examples below for 40 hour employment) 

• 12 accrued sick days per year 
• 3 personal days 
• Paid birthday off 
• 8 paid holidays, including Juneteenth 
• In addition to above paid holidays, paid week off between Christmas Eve and New Year's Day 
• Vacation 
  • Year 1 = 8 days 
  • Year 2 = 13 days 
  • Year 3 + = 20 days 
• Professional Development 
  • Employer-sponsored learning and development programs 
  • Tuition Assistance & Debt Relief Program, as budget allows 
  • DEI Council-sponsored education and engagement series  
• Wellness support 
  • Employee Assistance Program 
  • Yoga, Zumba and Book Club, when onsite 

Union Status: Union / Non - Exempt 

Erie Neighborhood House is dedicated to creating a workforce that promotes and supports diversity and inclusion. We provide equal employment opportunities to all individuals without discrimination. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact us at hr@eriehouse.org. 

NO TELEPHONE CALLS PLEASE!

MUST BE A MEMBER OF AFSCME OR JOIN AFTER 30 DAYS

ERIE NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

ACCREDITED BY NAEYC & NATIONAL AFTER SCHOOL ASSOCIATION

RECOGNIZED BY DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE; 

UNITED WAY MEMBER