Community Health Worker (CHW

Role Summary

The Community Health Worker (CHW) at FBWC plays a vital role in supporting survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault by helping them navigate the healthcare system, reducing barriers to care, and serving as a liaison between healthcare providers, social service agencies, and community partners.

The CHW provides direct support to individuals and families residing in the shelter by addressing physical, emotional, and mental health needs while promoting safety, wellness, and self-sufficiency. Responsibilities include connecting residents to healthcare services, providing health education, coordinating referrals, assisting with follow-up care, advocating for clients, and supporting outreach initiatives.

• Assist survivors of domestic violence and/or sexual assault in accessing healthcare services and community resources.
• Help residents understand and navigate the healthcare system.
• Assist with completing health-related applications and forms, including health insurance enrollment, healthcare assistance programs, and other social service applications.
• Accompany residents to medical and social service appointments when needed.
• Assist residents with obtaining prescribed medications from local pharmacies.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary staff to develop individualized care plans that address health goals and reduce barriers to care.
• Conduct basic health screenings, including blood pressure checks, glucose monitoring, and mental health assessments.
• Provide health education through individual sessions, support groups, classes, and community events on topics such as:
• Physical and mental health
• Nutrition
• Diabetes
• Maternal and child health
• Cancer prevention
• Family planning
• HIV/STI prevention and services
• Self-care
• Safety planning
• Build and maintain collaborative relationships with healthcare providers, community organizations, and social service agencies to ensure coordinated care.
• Schedule and facilitate primary and preventive healthcare appointments and provide referrals to community resources.
• Maintain a clean, organized shelter clinic and monitor inventory of over-the-counter medications and medical supplies.
• Provide trauma-informed, client-centered advocacy and emotional support.
• Utilize crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques when appropriate.
• Conduct ongoing follow-up with clients using motivational interviewing and goal-setting techniques.
• Participate in regular staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.
• Participate in the Hospital Accompaniment Response Team (HART) as assigned.
• Complete a minimum of six (6) continuing education hours annually related to the position.
• Successfully complete the Office of the Attorney General (OAG)-approved Sexual Assault Training Program (provided in-house).
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• High school diploma or GED.
• Current CPR certification.
• Valid Texas driver's license with current automobile liability insurance.
• Ability to pass a criminal background check and drug screening.
• Certification as a Texas Community Health Worker (CHW) or an equivalent credential.
• Strong organizational, documentation, data entry, scheduling, and record management skills.
• Willingness to travel throughout the Greater Harris and Fort Bend County areas as needed.

• College coursework or degree.
• Experience working with survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, or other trauma-informed populations.

• Bilingual in English/Spanish or another relevant language.
• Knowledge of health disparities and the unique needs of underserved communities.
• Experience working with diverse populations, including children, older adults, LGBTQ+ individuals, and individuals experiencing homelessness.
• Familiarity with local healthcare systems and community resources.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams.
• Sound judgment, professionalism, and the ability to maintain appropriate boundaries while responding compassionately to clients.
• Ability to follow direction, prioritize responsibilities, and adapt to changing situations.

• Work is performed primarily in a domestic violence shelter environment and may involve exposure to emotionally challenging situations.
• Must be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and adapting quickly to changing priorities.
• Demonstrate and uphold FBWC's SPIRIT Core Values:
• Service
• Passion
• Integrity
• Respect
• Innovation
• Teamwork
• Maintain a victim-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed approach when working with clients.
• Comply with HIPAA regulations, state mandatory reporting laws, and all confidentiality requirements.
• Flexible schedule with occasional evening and weekend responsibilities as needed.