Community Resource Specialist

Community Resource Specialist

The Community Resource Specialist (CRS), under the supervision of the Human Services Director, provides support to residents by helping them navigate social service systems, accessing resources, and ensuring comprehensive service delivery. This full-time position involves relationship-building, general support, and guiding residents through the complexities of the service system. The Community Resource Specialist is also responsible for providing updated resources through the biweekly Community Provider Connection calls and serving as a representative at community outreach events to promote the Community Resource Hub.

General duties include:

• Responding to inquiries from residents seeking social services and community resources via phone, email, in-person, and online platforms.
• Building and maintaining trusting relationships with residents, providing ongoing support to help them access resources that meet their needs.
• Facilitating referrals to local, regional, and state programs, ensuring timely service delivery.
• Serving as a representative for the City of Norwalk at community outreach events, educating the public about the Community Resource Hub and available services.
• Participating in the biweekly Community Provider Connection calls, providing updated resources to local service providers and organizations.
• Researching, maintaining, and updating an accurate directory of community resources and services to ensure residents are informed and can easily access assistance.
• Tracking and documenting all service interactions, referrals, and follow-ups in the city's information system.
• Assisting residents in understanding eligibility criteria for services and navigating complex social service systems.
• Offering ongoing support and guidance to residents, especially those seeking services for the first time.
• Collaborating with internal city departments, such as public health, fair rent, and others, to ensure comprehensive service delivery to residents.
• Proactively seeking out current resources, helping promote these resources to the Norwalk community, and providing resource content for social media platforms to keep residents informed.
• Performing other duties as assigned by the Human Services Director.

Supervised by:
Receives general supervision from Human Services Director.

Note:

The above is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It is not meant to be all-inclusive of every task or responsibility.

• Ability to work with individuals of all racial, ethnic, and income backgrounds.
• Strong knowledge of local resources and experience referring residents to appropriate services.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and internet navigation.
• Strong customer service and interpersonal skills, including effective follow-up and case management.
• Cultural competence in understanding and addressing the needs of diverse populations.
• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities and prioritize tasks effectively.

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Associate's degree preferred.
• Two years of experience in the social service or non-profit sector with direct experience working with diverse populations.
• Bilingual in Spanish, Haitian Creole strongly preferred.
• A valid driver's license is required.

License or Certificate:
Valid driver's license. Availability to work flexible schedules, including evenings as needed. This position is a Grade 8.

The City of Norwalk is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.

The City of Norwalk provides an outstanding benefits package including a Managed Health Care Program, Participation in 401A Retirement Account, Life Insurance, Dental Coverage, Deferred Compensation Plan, Vacation, Holiday and Sick Time.