Description
General Summary
Under the direction of the 2-1-1 Program Supervisor along with the day to day support from the Lead Information and Referral Specialist, the position of Information & Referral Specialist provides confidential, appropriate, unbiased health and social service information, referral and advocacy to the general public by telephone, email, mail, SMS Messages (Text), and in person; performs preliminary screening for eligibility for public and community services; assists callers with access issues; tracks gaps in services, and ensures that accurate information is available to all interested parties.
Essential Functions
- Screens callers for services, accurately records transaction information, refers to appropriate resource, and advocates for caller to secure services from public and private community agencies as needed.
- Responds to telephone inquiries concerning the availability of services provided by public or community resources.
- Schedules and performs follow-up surveys /calls via phone per protocol.
- Tracks gaps in service; captures changing information on resources and eligibility requirements to ensure accurate information is available to all agencies, callers, and assigned staff.
- Researches answers to new questions and requests for unknown services.
- Provides specific, detailed information to the public about accessing public private community resources for health and social services consistent with standards set by AIRS (Alliance of Information & Referral Systems).
- Collects and enter caller information into 2-1-1 information electronic record systems in compliance with contract and reporting requirements stipulated by funding partners.
- Advocates for individuals experiencing difficult or lacking ability needed to make effective contact with agencies, programs, and services.
- Works closely with staff in other 2-1-1 call centers, LifeWays, and crisis programs to ensure strong coordination and effective service.
- Works toward achieving program dashboard (quality assurance) goals.
- Represents 2-1-1 and LifeWays effectively to agencies and groups in person and on the telephone.
- Serves as a backup for Information and Outreach Specialist, as needed.
Requirements
Required Education/Certification/Licensure
- High School Diploma, or equivalent.
- CRS (Certified Community Resource Specialist) upon hire.
- Mental Health First Aid Training, upon hire.
- MiBridges Navigator, upon hire.
- Must have reliable transportation. *
*LifeWays vehicles are provided to employees with a valid MI motor vehicle operator’s license for the purpose of transporting consumers. Personal vehicles may be used for company business when drivers meet the following: valid MI motor vehicle operator’s license and proof of personal vehicle insurance in accordance to guideline.
Preferred Education / Certification/Licensure
- Associates degree with an emphasis in human or social services.
Disclaimer
The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job. The job description will be reviewed periodically as duties and responsibilities change with business necessity.