Outreach Community Health Worker
REACH PROJECT INC·City of Ithaca, New York
REACH PROJECT INC·City of Ithaca, New York
The Community Health Worker provides engagement and support services to individuals needing access to healthcare and social services. Responsibilities include managing the Syringe Service Program, providing non-clinical crisis support, and facilitating linkages to community health resources.
Promote the mission, vision, and values of REACH. Provide culturally appropriate support services for community-based individuals. Work with other members of both community-based organizations and members of the REACH outreach team to assess and address the needs of individuals including their social determinants of health. Facilitate patient awareness and access to information including formal and informal support systems, web, and/or print materials. Assist with the development implementation of the organization's Syringe Service Program (SSP), including documentation and reporting methods, promotional materials, ordering harm reduction supplies, inventory management and distribution. Assist with Tompkins County non-violent outreach and crisis support initiatives. Work with individuals to utilize public transportation independently and accompany participants to medical appointments as needed. Provide in-house transportation services when appropriate. Provide non-clinical crisis support after hospitalization, incarceration, and other occurrences that might cause distress. Educate, engage and refer individuals with substance use disorder and co-occurring mental health diagnoses about the various modes of recovery, formal recovery supports, and options for treatment. Provide mental health screenings as needed under the supervision of licensed behavioral providers (training provided as necessary). Assist with social services applications, processes, and renewals; assuring access to services. Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings including but not limited to daily patient care pre-visit huddles with REACH and/or regular or collaborative meetings with other community service providers. Maintain appropriate and focused progress notes in a timely manner. Provide case management and/or intensive case management services within residential settings. Work in collaboration with the entire outreach department to appropriately staff all current outreach grants and initiatives. Operate as a professional collaborator within our community and workspace. Provide outreach services in collaboration with supervisor and/or REACH outreach nurse for the purpose of extending REACH mission and services to individuals and/or community groups or otherwise interested in and eligible for any or all REACH services. Other duties as assigned by supervisor Benefits: This position is full-time, benefits eligible. The salary range for this position is $24.82/hour. REACH is dedicated to health equity. We are committed to hiring and developing well-qualified staff who reflect the racial, ethnic, social, and cultural diversity of the people we wish to serve. Because REACH is dedicated to health equity, we are committed to hiring and developing well-qualified staff who reflect the racial, ethnic, social, and cultural diversity of the people we wish to serve. People of color, people with LGBTQ identities, and people with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply.QualificationsQualifications: A high school diploma or equivalent. A minimum of two years’ experience working with clients in human services. A minimum of one year experience in outreach services, case management and/or housing navigation and support. A valid driver's license is required. Satisfactory driving record with no recent moving violations, suspensions, or major infractions. Experience with navigation of local medical and social support systems. Persons with lived experience preferred. Certified Recovery Peer Advocate certification desired. Exceptional communication skills.
Knowledge of local and regional community health services. Strong organizational and interpersonal skills. Ability to work independently, exercise creativity, and be attentive to detail. Ability to manage multiple and simultaneous responsibilities and to adjust priorities accordingly. Ability to maintain confidentiality of all medical, financial, and legal information. Ability to complete work assignments accurately, independently and in a timely manner. Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing. Ability to handle difficult situations in a professional manner. Commitment to harm reduction, health equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Requires a high school diploma and at least two years of experience in human services, with one year specifically in outreach or case management. A valid driver's license and a commitment to harm reduction and health equity are essential.
Market context
Behavioral health roles in New York are often in steady demand, especially for clinicians who can support diverse age groups and handle assessments or admissions. These positions can be competitive because employers commonly look for independent licensure, while also considering associate-level candidates with clear growth toward full licensure. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your licensure status and assessment experience before applying.