Classification Description
TITLE: Community Resource Advocate
CLASS: Academic Professional
EXEMPT STATUS: Exempt
LEVEL: 1
NATURE AND SCOPE OF WORK
The Community Resource Advocate is responsible for interviewing, assessing, and advocating for at risk and diverse populations for an assigned program. Incumbents in this classification work both independently and cooperatively with other staff members in identifying and resolving specific student needs and assisting students in removing educational barriers which prevent them from continuing in their educational and employment goals.
The Community Resource Advocate is distinguished from the Community Resource Specialist in that incumbents at the Specialist level are responsible for program coordination including planning, developing, and implanting program strategies. The Community Resource Advocate is responsible for working closely with initial assessment and placement of students/clients within a specified program.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES
- Conduct initial student assessments and evaluate results for program suitability. Coordinate schedule of assessment activities and ensure staff members are appraised of current schedule. Provide program information. Identify appropriate classes for students and assist student in registering. Advise students on training related issues.
- Create case management files for students. Provide initial documentation on assessment, referrals, and student discussions. Maintain applicant database. Develop reports for director and staff as requested.
- Advocate for applicants and students by phone and in person. Resolve questions involving eligibility requirements. Interpret program guidelines, processes, and support services. Refer students to community agencies as appropriate.
- Schedule student and program orientation dates. Troubleshoot issues relating to schedules. Participate in Intake/Assessment team activities. Administer and score tests. Identify and recommend service needs.
- Perform related duties as assigned.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Work is typically performed in an office environment
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Physical exertion is not a normal responsibility of this classification.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Associate's degree in Education, Psychology, Social Science, or related field. Experience performing the duties of this job may substitute for the degree requirement on a year for year basis.
Demonstrated experience working with various diverse and at risk populations. Experience working with students or clients in advising and developing goals. Experience assessing student needs and coordinating educational and community based services. Fluency in a second language may be required depending on position.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Demonstrated knowledge of college policies and procedures.
Demonstrated knowledge of services provided by various community based organizations.
Knowledge of program requirements.
Skill in operating a computer and various supporting software packages.
Skill in assessing and mentoring students.
Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects or to change priorities quickly.
Ability to work with an ethnically and culturally diverse population.
Ability to cooperatively identify and resolve problems or issues with students.
Ability to operate a variety of office equipment.
Ability to effectively communicate in oral and written form.