VA Benefits Navigator

VA Benefits Navigator

Position Summary :

The VA Benefits Navigator is a peer, with lived experience , who assists individuals experiencing homelessness to access mainstream benefits that they are eligible for;

like job training, health insurance, Social Security Disability, food stamps, etc. Hiring preference will be given to Veterans.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities :

Assist Clients directly or on their behalf to facilitate access to benefits and services such as primary medical care, social services, housing, entitlements, and benefits;

assist clients with any necessary paperwork, compiling eligibility documentation required by other service providers, and other tasks required to connect clients to needed services

Engage in outreach efforts with clients including phone calls, emails, outreach letters, and home visits when clients miss an appointment.

Build rapport with current clients at the overnight shelter to build a caseload

• Transport and support Clients with specific needs, mental health limitations, or other barriers to appointments or offices as needed to complete their applications for benefits and services
• Educate and monitor Clients on issues related to applying for benefits and services
• Connect with community resources to arrange job fairs, employment services, and job placement projects.
• Work collaboratively with case managers to receive referrals for advocacy services, and follow up with case managers about progress on goals
• Maintain an up-to-date record of services as dictated by documentation standards
• Serve as a programmatic representative with outside agencies; conduct necessary outreach efforts
• Coordinate the provision of HIV and mental health treatment services with case managers and / or counselors of Clients
• Attend all-staff meetings, supervision and mandatory trainings
• Participate actively in team efforts, as assigned
• Special Projects as assigned
• Other duties as assigned

Specific Knowledge, Skills, Abilities :

• Authentic interpersonal capacity for empathic understanding and nonjudgmental attitude when engaging with Clients with mental health problems
• Computer knowledge
• Strong knowledge of local resources and application processes for benefits
• Experience applying for mainstream benefits successfully
• Experience working with diverse communities, including LGBT, substance users and communities of color

Education, Qualifications, Certifications, Trainings, Licenses :

• High School graduate or equivalent
• SOAR certification (SVDP will provided if the successful candidate is not certified)
• Peer Support Certification preferred
• A combination of education, training and experience that results in demonstrated proficiency to perform the work may be substituted
• Commitment to the Mission, Vision and Values of St. Vincent de Paul Louisville
• Successfully pass any required pre-employment background and drug screening
• Valid Driver’s license and clean driving background

Reporting to this position : None

St Vincent de Paul, Louisville (SVDP) is one of the longest serving social charities in Louisville. Through our homeless shelters, supportive housing programs, professional case management, clinical services, after-school programming, Open Hand Kitchen, Food Pantry, and retail thrift stores, we house, feed, and support those in need with compassion and dignity.

Benefits / Additional Information :

In addition to a sense of purpose and pride that comes from serving others, eligible employees enjoy paid holidays,

paid leave, paid Life / Short / Long Term Insurance as well as access to SVDP’s Section 125 Health and 401(k) Retirement Plans.

SVDP will conduct a thorough background investigation as part of its application process. Investigations are not limited to but will include review and verification of the following : previous employment, character references, motor vehicle reports, personality and aptitude testing, drug screening, and a comprehensive criminal background check.

Apply online : https : / / www.svdplou.org / careers / or Email cover letter and resume to : [email protected]

SVDP is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity, Affirmative Action employer and absolutely committed to diversity. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.