Outreach specialist

Position: Application and Outreach specialist
Location: City of Rochester

Overview

The Application and Outreach Specialist will play a vital role in Family-Centered Service Program (GROW²) by supporting individuals and families referred to through the Monroe County Department of Social Services (MCDSS) who are applying for or receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Safety Net Assistance (SNA-MOE), or other public benefits.

This position focuses on reducing application barriers, facilitating access to resources, and promoting long-term financial stability. The Specialist will assist families with completing Temporary Assistance applications, gathering required documentation, attending appointments, and connecting with employment and training opportunities that support self-sufficiency.

The Specialist will also serve as a bridge between MCDSS, YWCA, and community-based organizations to ensure holistic, family-centered support services.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities Application Assistance & Case Management

• Provide individualized support to TANF-eligible families in completing and submitting Temporary Assistance applications.
• Assist participants with obtaining required documentation and attending scheduled appointments with MCDSS.
• Follow up on referrals to ensure cases remain active and families meet ongoing eligibility requirements.
• Maintain engagement with participants for a minimum of six months (up to nine months) to monitor progress and outcomes.
• Conduct home visits and/or in-person meetings as needed to ensure accessibility and continuity of care.

Outreach & Engagement

• Collaborate with MCDSS to engage referred participants, focusing on the targeted population.
• Conduct proactive outreach to reduce “no-show” rates for MCDSS appointments and improve documentation compliance.
• Accept and process self-referrals from eligible TANF households.

Resource Navigation & Referrals

• Connect families to local financial, employment, housing, educational, and childcare resources.
• Develop and maintain a working knowledge of Monroe County’s community-based resources and programs.
• Provide warm hand-offs to partnering agencies to ensure comprehensive family support.
• Offer coaching and empowerment-based support to help families identify and overcome barriers to stability.

Compliance & Data Collection

• Maintain a clear understanding of TANF, FA, Safety Net Assistance (SN), and related eligibility criteria.
• Ensure that all enrolled households meet program eligibility guidelines.
• Accurately document participant information, services provided, outcomes achieved, and follow-up actions in accordance with YWCA and MCDSS reporting requirements.
• Prepare regular data reports and case summaries as required by the Family-Centered Services Program.
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions with participants and partners.

Professional Development & Collaboration

• Participate in ongoing training related to trauma-informed care, job coaching, emotional support, and cultural competency.
• Attend YWCA and MCDSS meetings, trainings, and supervision sessions.
• Collaborate with YWCA team members and community partners to share resources, best practices, and referrals.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Associate’s degree in human services, Social Work, Psychology
• Minimum of two years’ experience in case management, social services, workforce development, or community outreach.
• Familiarity with TANF, SNA-MOE, and other public assistance programs strongly preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Demonstrated understanding of poverty-related barriers and the social service system.
• Ability to engage clients using trauma-informed and strength-based approaches.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining collaboration with team members.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, case management databases, and virtual meeting tools.

Physical and

Work Environment Requirements

• Must have reliable transportation and a valid NYS driver’s license.
• Occasional evening or weekend hours may be required.

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