Benefits Specialist (Chenango / Otsego Counties)

The Benefits Specialist at Hunger Free America is primarily responsible for conducting outreach and assisting residents in Chenango and Otsego Counties with accessing nutrition benefits such as SNAP and WIC. This role involves training Chobani volunteers, performing benefits screening and application assistance, and ensuring applicants receive their benefits promptly. Additionally, the Specialist enters all activities into a database to track client progress and collaborates with various teams to maximize outreach efforts.

To qualify for the Benefits Specialist position at Hunger Free America, candidates should preferably hold a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, although significant experience in anti-hunger initiatives or nutrition benefits access can also suffice. Familiarity with serving low-income communities, strong organizational and communication skills, and a high-energy, self-starter mindset are crucial. Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs is required, and knowledge of Salesforce is a plus.

There is potential for growth within the Benefits Specialist role at Hunger Free America, especially as the organization continues to expand its outreach initiatives. Successful Specialists may have opportunities to take on more advanced responsibilities or leadership roles in volunteer management and program development. Continued employment beyond the initial term may also depend on securing additional resources.

The work environment for a Benefits Specialist at Hunger Free America is dynamic and community-focused. Specialists mainly work out of a host location in either Chenango or Otsego County, while also traveling to various outreach sites. The role encourages engagement with community members and collaboration with volunteers, making it an ideal fit for those who thrive in interactive settings. Flexibility in work hours can also allow for a mix of in-office and remote work.

Hunger Free America offers an extensive benefits package for full-time employees, which includes a strong health insurance plan with fully paid employee premiums, a health reimbursement account, and generous vacation, holiday, and sick time. The organization values diversity and inclusivity, creating a welcoming environment for staff members from various backgrounds.

To effectively prioritize my workload as a Benefits Specialist, I would assess the urgency and importance of each task. I’d start by focusing on immediate outreach opportunities and high-need cases, while also ensuring follow-ups are conducted in a timely manner. Utilizing tools like task lists or project management software would help me stay organized and maintain clear communication with volunteers and team members.

In my previous roles, I have had extensive direct experience engaging with low-income communities by conducting outreach and providing services tailored to their needs. I've learned the importance of empathy, active listening, and cultural competency, which I believe are essential for connecting with community members and ensuring they feel comfortable seeking support.

To train volunteers effectively, I would utilize a hands-on approach that combines presentation of information with real-world scenarios. I’d provide clear training materials, conduct role-playing exercises, and encourage feedback to ensure everyone feels confident in assisting community members. Building relationships and creating a supportive environment for volunteers are also key to encouraging ongoing commitment.

If an applicant is not receiving their benefits on time, my first step would be to communicate directly with them to understand their situation. Following that, I would investigate the reason for the delay, working closely with relevant agencies or departments to resolve any issues promptly. Keeping the applicant informed throughout this process is crucial for maintaining trust and ensuring they feel supported.

I am proficient in Microsoft Office programs, which are instrumental in documenting and managing outreach efforts. Additionally, I have experience with client management systems and databases that help track client progress. Although I have limited engagement with Salesforce, I am eager to learn and adapt to new tools that can enhance efficiency in this role.

To stay informed about changes in nutrition assistance programs, I regularly review government websites, participate in webinars, and attend relevant workshops and conferences. Networking with other professionals in the field is also invaluable for sharing best practices and staying current on policy updates that may impact the communities we serve.

In my last role, I encountered a situation where a significant number of applicants faced delays in their benefits processing. After analyzing the issue, I coordinated with our internal team to streamline our application process and established a follow-up system. This not only resolved the immediate issue but also improved overall efficiency, leading to more timely benefits distribution in the future.

I am drawn to Hunger Free America because of the organization’s commitment to fighting domestic hunger and ensuring that everyone has access to nutritious food. I admire the proactive approach the organization takes with community engagement and volunteerism, and I am excited about the opportunity to make a tangible difference in people’s lives through this role.

My background in community outreach and experience working with non-profit organizations make me a great fit for the Benefits Specialist position. I have a strong passion for social justice and a demonstrated ability to empathize with communities in need. Furthermore, my organizational skills and ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences will help me contribute positively to Hunger Free America's mission.

When facing conflicting priorities, I would evaluate each task’s urgency and importance, using a matrix approach to determine what needs immediate attention. I would communicate openly with my team about my workload, allowing for collaborative problem solving. Flexibility is also key, as I may need to adjust my priorities based on new information or urgent community needs.