General Position Purpose Statement:

The Community Health Worker (CHW) serves as a trusted liaison between Native American and Alaska Native individuals, families, communities, and healthcare systems. The CHW promotes health equity by providing culturally responsive outreach, health education, advocacy, care coordination, and support services. This position plays a vital role in improving access to healthcare, social services, prevention programs, and wellness resources for urban Indigenous populations served by the Nebraska Urban Indian Health Coalition.

Essential Responsibilities and Duties:

Community Outreach and Engagement

• Conduct outreach activities within Native American and Alaska Native communities to increase awareness of available health and social services.
• Build trusting relationships with community members, tribal partners, healthcare providers, and community organizations.
• Assist with recruitment and participation in health promotion programs, screenings, and community events.
• Represent NUIHC at community meetings, health fairs, and cultural events.

Health Education and Support

• Provide culturally appropriate health education on topics such as diabetes prevention, nutrition, behavioral health, substance use prevention, maternal health, chronic disease management, and other wellness initiatives.
• Support individuals in understanding healthcare recommendations and treatment plans.
• Facilitate group education sessions, workshops, and wellness activities.
• Distribute educational materials and resources.

Care Coordination and Navigation

• Assist clients in accessing healthcare services, behavioral health resources, housing assistance, transportation, food security programs, and other community supports.
• Help clients schedule appointments and navigate health systems.
• Provide referrals and follow-up services to ensure connection with needed resources.
• Advocate for clients to reduce barriers to care.

Client Support and Case Management

• Conduct assessments to identify client needs and social determinants of health.
• Develop action plans with clients to support health and wellness goals.
• Maintain regular contact with participants to encourage engagement and follow-through.
• Document client interactions and referrals in accordance with program requirements.

Data Collection and Reporting

• Maintain accurate and timely records, reports, and program documentation.
• Assist with data collection efforts, outcome tracking, and grant reporting requirements.
• Protect client confidentiality and comply with HIPAA regulations and organizational policies.

Cultural Responsiveness

• Promote Indigenous values, traditions, and culturally informed approaches to health and wellness.
• Demonstrate respect for cultural practices and community knowledge.
• Support NUIHC's mission to improve the health and well-being of urban Native populations.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Community Health Worker certification or willingness to obtain certification within six months.
• One (1) year of experience in community outreach, public health, social services, healthcare, or a related field preferred.
• Experience working with Native American and Alaska Native communities preferred.
• Knowledge of health disparities, social determinants of health, and community resources.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office applications.
• Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and ability to travel locally.

Preferred Qualifications

• Community Health Worker Certification.
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Public Health, Social Work, Human Services, Health Education, or a related field.
• Experience with grant-funded programs and data collection.
• Familiarity with urban Indigenous health issues and culturally grounded health promotion practices.

Required Competencies

• Cultural humility and sensitivity.
• Relationship building and community engagement.
• Advocacy and client-centered service delivery.
• Effective communication and active listening.
• Problem-solving and resource navigation.
• Professionalism, integrity, and confidentiality.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to travel throughout the service area.
• Ability to participate in community outreach events and presentations.
• Ability to sit, stand, walk, and lift up to 25 pounds occasionally.

Benefits

• Competitive wage
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• Professional development opportunities
• Community-centered and mission-driven work environment

Nebraska Urban Indian Health Coalition Mission Alignment

The Community Health Worker supports the mission of the Nebraska Urban Indian Health Coalition by promoting equitable access to healthcare, strengthening community connections, honoring Indigenous cultures, and improving the overall health and wellness of Native American and Alaska Native communities.