General Assistance Advocate Worker

Job Description:

The position is under the supervision of the Family Services Director and Tribal Administrator.  The general assistance worker is responsible for the case management of tribal General Assistance (GA) Program and other public assistance. The worker coordinates with local and State Income Support Divisions and other divisions that provide public assistance to clients. 

Duties:

Interviews applicants and evaluates general assistance needs

Determines eligibility requirements for tribal general assistance based on NM Standards of Needs

Completes Application for Services, Individual Services Plans (ISP) and evaluating behavioral and educational goals, etc.

Maintains confidential client records and case files

Documents case activities and services in client files

Helps clients to apply for public assistance such as TANF, SNAPS (food stamps), State General Assistance, LIHEAP, Social Security disability/survivors' benefits, Medicaid/Medicare, etc.)

Works with the Attorney and Counselor at Law for social security disability and SSI claims and worker’s compensation claims for clients who are denied services.

Serves as an interpreter in Tribal Court for child support cases

Networks with community helping agencies for referrals regarding behavioral health and/or mental health services

Develops outreach contact on behalf of and in support of clients and family members for services

Help clients to obtain food, clothing and other needs from Road Runner food banks, St. Felix Pantry, Good Neighbor Fund for PNM, Help NM, St. Vincent DePaul, etc. 

Provides interpretation and advocacy for clients applying for public assistance

Provides transportation for clients to obtain outside resources

Follow up with client progress or services

Participates in staff meetings, community groups and other group meetings such as Social Services Quarterly meetings and case coordinated meetings on a monthly basis.

Works closely with Child Welfare Worker for child abuse/neglect referrals

Assist with evening parent session, as needed.

Provides assistance to families with elders needing alternative placements or services

Attend trainings, conferences and/or meetings related to social services, child welfare, child abuse/neglect, case management, etc.

Additional Responsibilities: 

This position description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties performed by this employee.  He or she will be required to follow any other instructions or to perform any other duties requested by his or her supervisor such as follow up on client referrals or conducting child welfare checks.  Knowledge of the principles, practices and techniques of executing social services work and delivering services to the target population. Ability to interpret laws and regulations applicable to General Assistance benefits and other public assistance. 

Qualifications:

Education:  HS Diploma or equivalent coursework in human and behavioral sciences, specialized training related to position; AA in Social Work or BSW is desirable. 

Experience/Basic Knowledge: 3 years or more work experience in human services, social services or related field; 3 years or more in working with a tribe or tribal organization in a social work/human services field. 

Required Licenses/Certifications: Prefer a valid driver’s license, Certified Peer Support Worker (CPSW) and Family Development Certification

Physical Requirements: Ability to operate a computer. Ability to sit and stand for long periods. Bends and stoops regularly.

Preferences: Keres speaking is desirable; San Felipe Preference and Veteran’s Preference; must pass the background check. 

Working Conditions:

The nature of the case work has an emotional and psychological effect on individuals and staff.  The work environment must provide some means of staff morale and wellness.