Community Outreach Specialist

As a Community Outreach Specialist at Vanna Health, your responsibilities will include conducting outreach to individuals in various community settings, engaging with them to understand their personal goals, and addressing their social, behavioral, and physical health needs. You'll promote recovery-oriented thinking and assist in care coordination, ensuring that every member receives the support they need to thrive.

To qualify for the Community Outreach Specialist role at Vanna Health, candidates should have a minimum of 2 years of experience working with individuals experiencing serious mental illness, particularly in Philadelphia. A high school diploma or equivalent is necessary, and while certifications like Certified Peer Specialist or Community Health Worker are advantageous, they are not mandatory at the initial stage.

Essential skills for the Community Outreach Specialist position at Vanna Health include strong communication abilities, empathy, creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. A willingness to learn software like Gmail, Google Suite, and Slack is also important, as is the capacity to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.

Yes! Vanna Health provides comprehensive training for Community Outreach Specialists, particularly in areas such as physical health coaching. This ensures that you are well-equipped to support our members in achieving their health goals with the utmost confidence and professionalism.

Vanna Health offers a competitive benefits package that includes full medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401K plan, flexible spending options, and paid time off that encompasses vacation, personal, and sick days. Additionally, you'll receive company-paid holidays, ensuring a balanced work-life dynamic.

When conducting community outreach, I would first identify key locations where individuals are likely to be found, such as shelters and healthcare facilities. I'd approach outreach with empathy and understanding, engaging individuals in dialogue to identify their needs and goals. Building trust is paramount, so I would take the time to listen actively and connect them to the necessary resources.

In handling a difficult interaction, I would focus on remaining calm and composed. I would practice active listening to fully understand the individual's concerns and validate their emotions. By employing de-escalation techniques and expressing empathy, I would aim to guide the conversation toward a more productive outcome.

To promote recovery-oriented thinking, I would involve individuals in the goal-setting process, ensuring that their desires and aspirations are at the forefront. I would provide encouragement and share success stories to inspire confidence. It's crucial to help individuals recognize their strengths and capabilities, ensuring they see recovery as an achievable goal.

Success as a Community Outreach Specialist would be defined by the growth and progress of the individuals I support. Seeing community members achieve their goals and improve their overall well-being would be the ultimate measure. Additionally, the ability to cultivate strong relationships and support networks within the community is crucial.

I have experience with health-related documentation through previous roles where maintaining records was critical. I understand the importance of accurate and timely documentation for tracking member engagement and coordinating care. I am comfortable with electronic health records and adhere to all privacy protocols.

Collaboration with a team of clinicians and specialists is vital for effective outreach. I would prioritize clear communication, sharing insights from my interactions with community members, and actively participating in team meetings. By valuing each team member's expertise and fostering a supportive environment, we can collectively enhance the impact on our members.

My experience with individuals suffering from serious mental illness includes direct support roles where I provided emotional and practical assistance. I have learned to advocate for their needs while empowering them to engage in their treatment and recovery journey. My focus has always been on building trust and fostering a sense of autonomy.

If a member refused help, I would respect their decision while ensuring they know support is available if they choose to accept it later. It’s important to maintain the relationship and continue to express my willingness to help in a non-invasive manner. Building rapport is crucial for them to feel safe and open up in the future.

Staying motivated and resilient in a challenging role is key. I make it a point to practice self-care and seek support from my team when needed. Engaging in reflective practices helps me process my experiences, and celebrating small victories keeps my morale high as I contribute positively to my community.

In a previous engagement, I worked with a member who was facing housing instability. By actively listening to their needs and challenges, I connected them to resources for temporary housing while coordinating transportation to essential appointments. This collaborative effort not only addressed their immediate needs but also paved the way for more sustainable solutions.