Monona County Outreach Specialist

Outreach / Family Development Specialist

West Central Community Action seeks an Outreach/Family Development Specialist for the Monona County Office in Onawa, Iowa. The Outreach/Family Development Specialist is responsible for organizing, maintaining and managing a county-wider outreach office to serve low-income individuals and families. This position conducts annual interviews and completes a Basic Intake Form for households meeting income eligibility, as defined by the U.S. Poverty Guidelines.

The interview and intake process are used to assess client needs and coordinate access to appropriate services and resources.

In alignment with the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) goals, this position supports efforts to reduce poverty, promote financial self-sufficiency, and strengthen families through comprehensive, family-centered services. The Outreach/Family Development Specialist facilitates service coordination by providing information, referrals, and recruitment for agency and community programs that address identified needs and empower families to reach their highest potential.

• Current valid and active driver's license and current and valid auto liability insurance are required for position.
• Maintain a county-wide database of all families receiving services.
• Provide client access to emergency food services located within Monona County Outreach or other service as needed.
• Maintain and organize emergency clothing room located at Monona County Outreach.
• Process applications for WCCA-sponsored programs, verify income and provide appropriate household budgeting and counseling.
• Receive applications for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) & Energy Crisis Intervention Payment (ECIP).
• Work collaboratively with a variety of services and programs to coordinate client needs, develop and maintain relationships with other public and private organizations to support coordination efforts.
• Recruit, train and utilize community volunteers to support office operations.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Ideal candidate will have strong interpersonal skills necessary to engage effectively with clients, volunteers, staff and community partners.
• Staff member must be able to interpret and apply rules, regulations, policies and procedures governing programs serving low-income families.
• Ability to move, bend and lift approximately 50 pounds.

Bachelor's of Arts/Science with an emphasis in Social Work, Human Services or other related degree are preferred. Will consider or accept a combination of related experience and education in lieu of a completed Bachelor's Degree. HS Diploma or GED is required for this position.

Benefits include:
Health, dental and life insurance, long-term disability, EAP, 13 paid holidays, vacation & sick pay, IPERS and 403(B) retirement programs.

This position may be eligible for the Federal Loan Forgiveness Program. Go to westcentralca.org to find out more about West Central Community Action and to apply online.

All staff are required to complete a Background Check which includes Sex Offender Registry Check, Adult and Child Abuse Registry Check and a Criminal Background Check.