Community Resource Specialist

About the role

Under the supervision of the Human Services Director, the Community Resource Specialist provides support to residents by helping them navigate social service systems, accessing resources, and ensuring comprehensive service delivery. This full-time position involves relationship-building, general support, and guiding residents through the complexities of the service system. The position will coordinate with local, regional, and state service providers and community agencies to ensure residents are aware of and receive timely and appropriate information and assistance. The Community Resource Specialist is also responsible for providing updated resources through the biweekly Community Provider Connection calls and serving as a representative at community outreach events to promote the Community Resource Hub.

Responsibilities

• Respond to inquiries from residents seeking social services and community resources via phone, email, in-person, and online platforms such as City Resource Referral Form, UniteUS®, etc.
• Build and maintain trusting relationships with residents, providing ongoing support to help them access resources that meet their needs.
• Facilitate referrals to local, regional, and state programs, ensuring timely service delivery.
• Serve as a representative for the City of Norwalk at community outreach events, educating the public about the Community Resource Hub and available services.
• Participate in the biweekly Community Provider Connection calls, providing updated resources to local service providers and organizations.
• Research, maintain and update an accurate directory of community resources and services to ensure residents are informed and can easily access assistance.
• Track and document all service interactions, referrals, and follow-ups in the city's information system.
• Assist residents in understanding eligibility criteria for services and navigating complex social service systems.
• Offer ongoing support and guidance to residents, especially those seeking services for the first time.
• Collaborate with internal city departments, such as public health, fair rent and others, to ensure comprehensive service delivery to residents.
• Proactively seek out current resources, help promote these resources to the Norwalk community and provide resource content for social media platforms to keep residents informed.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Human Services Director.

Qualifications

• Ability to work with individuals of all racial, ethnic, and income backgrounds.
• Strong knowledge of local resources and experience referring residents to appropriate services.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and internet navigation.
• Strong customer service and interpersonal skills, including effective follow-up and case management.
• Cultural competence in understanding and addressing the needs of diverse populations.
• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities and prioritize tasks effectively.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Associate's degree preferred.
• Two years of experience in the social service or non-profit sector with direct experience working with diverse populations.
• Bilingual in Spanish, Haitian Creole strongly preferred.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Availability to work flexible schedules, including evenings as needed.