Basic Needs Counselor

Basic Needs Counselor

01/2016

Basic Needs Counselor

Department:Social Services – Basic Needs

Supervisor:Basic Needs Manager

Status:Full-time/ Exempt

Summary: Under the overall direction of the Deputy Executive Director of UCM, with immediate supervision provided by the Basic Needs Manager, the Basic Needs Counselor will be responsible for the following tasks:

Principal Functions:

a.Interview clients to determine need. Assess immediate emergency needs and assist persons in accessing available services. These services will include federal, state and county programs as well as those of UCM.

b.Discuss goals and problems with clients to develop individualized plans. Encourage clients to cooperate with UCM staff in carrying out agreed plans. Work in concert with staff to assist client in successful completion of same.

cAuthorize services and benefits following Basic Needs Policies & Procedures

d.Networking and public relations. Network with private and public agencies in the community concerning service and program availability. Advocate on behalf of low and low-moderate income people.

e.Information and referral. Assist persons in achieving independence and at the same time provide additional consultation and support when needed.

f.All other duties as required for the safe and efficient operation of UCM.

GENERAL AREAS

  1. Adherence to and support of UCM’s Mission and Values. This includes a proven ability to exercise empathy and positive regard in providing services to clients.
  1. Ability to work cooperatively with peers and supervisors.
  1. Ability to maintain professional relationships with clients, children and families and other agency representatives.
  2. Quality of work. This includes consistent exercise of promptness, accuracy and sound judgment, meeting required outcomes and the ability to perform all aspects of the job description.
  1. Dedication. This includes the desire determination and ability to provide comprehensive services to clients, children, and families.

ADMINISTRATIVE DUTIES

  1. Complete intakes for all services rendered. Record services, outcomes and client notes as required into data base.
  1. Adhere to UCM Personnel Policies and Procedures and help maintain the UCM "Statement of Philosophy" as written in the Personnel Manual.

c.Keep receptionist and supervisor informed of whereabouts throughout the day.

  1. Attend monthly all staff meetings.
  1. Attend Social Services Unit Meetings.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

  1. Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience in social work or a related field.
  1. Have strong interviewing and intuitive skills.
  1. Familiar and sympathetic regarding cultural mores.
  1. Demonstrate excellent English skills in written and verbal communication.
  1. Strong computer skills and familiar with all other business equipment.
  1. Able to meet U.S. Department of Justice requirements for Employment Eligibility Verification.
  1. Physical expectations: have physical stamina to fulfill all work requirements during assigned working hours.
  1. Able to meet U.S. Department of Justice requirements for Employment Eligibility Verification.

Equal Opportunity Employer

______

Employee NameEmployee Signature Date