Support Specialist (69423)

General Function

The Support Specialist provides resource navigation, case management, and ongoing support services to individuals, families, youth, and community members through the Community Resource Centers. This position works alongside participants to identify barriers, develop goals, connect to resources, and provide follow-up support that promotes stability and self-sufficiency.

Working within Integrated Community Services (ICS), the Support Specialist collaborates with Community Resource Center staff, volunteers, community partners, and other ICS programs to coordinate services, address community needs, and improve access to resources. This position also represents the Community Resource Centers through outreach and community engagement while fostering a welcoming and respectful environment for participants and visitors.

Principal Activities

• Provide resource navigation, case management, and support services to participants in person, by phone, and through other communication methods.
• Conduct participant assessments to identify strengths, needs, goals, and barriers to stability and self-sufficiency.
• Develop individualized action plans and provide ongoing follow-up, support and coordination of services to assist participants in reducing barriers and achieving identified goals.
• Assist participants with accessing resources, including completing applications, scheduling appointments, gathering documentation, and navigating service systems.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential participant records, case notes, service documentation, and required data in applicable case management and database systems in accordance with organizational policies, program standards, and funding requirements.
• Build and maintain collaborative relationships with community partners to improve access to services and resources for participants.
• Support and participate in community outreach activities, resource fairs, tabling events, presentations, and other public engagement opportunities to increase awareness of Community Resource Center services, Integrated Community Services, and Volunteers of America Western Washington.
• Work collaboratively with Community Resource Center staff, other Integrated Community Services programs, volunteers, and community partners to coordinate services and address participant needs.
• Provide feedback and recommendations to the Site Director regarding community trends, participant needs, service gaps, and opportunities for program improvement.
• Assist in researching community needs and identifying opportunities for new programs, partnerships, services, and volunteer engagement.
• Perform administrative duties including maintaining resource information, preparing reports, processing paperwork, and supporting program operations.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Effect on End Results

Participants receive timely, coordinated, and ongoing support that reduces barriers and promotes stability and self-sufficiency. Effective collaboration and community engagement strengthen access to services, participant outcomes, and awareness of Community Resource Center and Integrated Community Services programs. Accurate documentation, identification of community needs and service gaps, and adherence to program and confidentiality requirements support continuous improvement and organizational effectiveness.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in human services, social services, behavioral health, social work, or a related field preferred. Equivalent education and relevant professional experience will be considered.
• One (1) year or more of experience providing case management, direct support, resource navigation, community outreach, or related services to individuals and families experiencing barriers to stability.
• Experience working with individuals experiencing complex stability barriers and navigating community resources, public benefits, and social service systems.
• Strong interpersonal communication, customer service, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment and problem-solving skills, and collaborate effectively with a team to coordinate services and participant support.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple participants, priorities, and deadlines while maintaining accurate and timely documentation.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 and the ability to learn and effectively use TEAMS, Extended Reach and technology systems.
• Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends as needed.
• Must be able to lift and carry 30+ pounds as required by the position.
• Must be able to climb stairs as needed.