Benefit Services Outreach Advocate

General Description / Position Summary:

The position of Benefit Services Outreach Advocate is responsible for all direct benefits outreach efforts. This position is responsible for assisting potential Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and other clients in eligibility prescreening and application assistance. Benefit Services Outreach Advocates will strive to foster a positive image of the SNAP Program, be efficient in the execution of outreach efforts, and ensure the highest quality service to prospective clients and partner agency outreach sites.  

Essential Job Functions:

1. Responsible for all direct outreach activities at various sites in the Las Vegas Valley primarily to increase access to and participation in the SNAP Program.

• Provide all potential SNAP, EAP (Energy Assistance Program), Medicaid and Medicare Part D clients with eligibility prescreening and application assistance, and coach them on the types of information needed to complete the application process and receive benefits.
• Conduct SNAP interviews as required for the approval of benefits.
• Upload client applications to the Division of Welfare and Supportive Services website to help ensure a timely determination.
• Distribute all relevant promotional materials and advertising.
• Provide ongoing customer relations with partner agency outreach sites and work with sites on any issues related to SNAP policies and procedures and effective outreach/marketing strategies to ensure the best use of time and agency resources. 
• Work with the BSO Manager and/or supervisor to identify issues that need to be resolved in a timely manner. 
• Work with the BSO Manager to identify areas of program improvement and work to implement changes in program policies and procedures. Provide weekly progress reports of progress, status, and accomplishments.
• Update and quality-check entries in the master SNAP log, which contains SNAP applicant information submitted by the field advocates.
• Maintain SNAP application files and ensure their secure storage. 

      2. Attend community events as needed to assist attendees with SNAP and EAP applications and referrals to other services.

      3. Perform marketing and advertising duties at affordable housing complexes around the valley to inform residents about  upcoming outreach visits.

     4. Maintain a positive work environment by conducting all communications with clients, visitors, colleagues, co-Advocates, an supervisors in a professional, friendly, and helpful manner.

      5. Maintain a clean driving record.

      6. Perform other job functions as requested or assigned.

      7. Regular and consistent attendance.

      8. Manage confidential information.

Qualifications and Abilities:

• Ability to speak, write, and read in Spanish is a plus
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• Ability to take direction well, using good listening skills
• Ability to work independently
• Ability to work a variable schedule, including some evenings and weekends as needed
• Strong organizational skills and ability to multi-task
• Excellent basic computer skills (Microsoft Office, especially Excel and Outlook; and general internet proficiency)
• Accurate data entry and quality control
• Excellent public relations and customer service skills
• Effective public speaking and presentation skills
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Ability to perform as an effective team member
• Valid driver’s license, proof of driving record 
• Ability to provide own transportation to sites and events
• Maintain a clean, well-groomed appearance
• Excellent history of attendance and on-time performance
• Ability to pass a criminal background check and drug screening (including cannabis) 

Working Conditions

• Outreach activities, especially at community events, are often conducted outdoors, possibly in hot, cold, or otherwise inclement weather. 
• At community events and other outreach sites, advocates must regularly transport supplies such as tables, tablecloths, flyers, and other collateral, and unload and reload the items into their vehicles. 
• Marketing tasks are often carried out at apartment complexes that do not have elevators and require the climbing of stairs.
• Office tasks generally require several hours of viewing a computer screen.

Education:

High School diploma or GED

SNAP Application Assistance and Initial Interview Certification.

Experience:

At least one year of related experience working in a nonprofit organization related to customer service is preferred.  

Performance Standards:

Satisfactory performance is accomplished when:

Outreach Advocate provides effective and personalized SNAP program eligibility prescreening and application assistance in coordination with scheduled outreach activities that results in increased access and participation in the SNAP Program.

SNAP Outreach Advocate demonstrates self-directed, disciplined, cooperative coordination and tactful approach in completing all work duties and in relating/reporting to supervisors, staff, community partners, and clients.

The SNAP Outreach Advocate supports the mission and goals set forth by Three Square, Nevada State Welfare’s Program Manager, and additional grantors as appropriate, by recognizing and reporting all pertinent information to ensure the most effective SNAP Outreach and any improvements to enable adjustments in planning.

The SNAP Outreach Advocate demonstrates the importance of a positive first impression as a first priority when presenting oneself, Three Square, the SNAP Program, and the Nevada State Welfare and Social Services Division. The SNAP Outreach Advocate exhibits a positive, professional image, attitude, and work product.

The SNAP Outreach Advocate demonstrates active compliance with Three Square policies and procedures.

The SNAP Outreach Advocate uses time and scarce resources to the best advantage of Three Square.

The SNAP Outreach Advocate meets work schedule requirements and/or provides proper notification for absence or tardiness.

This job description does not list all the duties of the job. You may be asked to perform other duties. You will be evaluated in part based on your performance of the tasks listed in this job description. Three Square Food Bank has the right to revise this job description at any time. The job description is not a contract for employment.