Soar Benefits Specialist

Community Alliance - Omaha, NE

Full-time - Mid Level

Omaha, NE

Social Assistance

About the position

The SOAR Benefits Specialist plays a crucial role in assisting individuals with mental illness in navigating the application process for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). This position focuses on facilitating access to benefits for individuals experiencing homelessness, particularly those with co-occurring mental illness and substance use disorders. The specialist will screen for service eligibility, collect necessary medical documentation, and write detailed summaries to support applications, while also coordinating with various agencies and community resources.

Responsibilities

• Assist individuals with mental illness in navigating the SSI/SSDI application process.
• Screen individuals for service eligibility based on program criteria.
• Collect medical records and assessment information to expedite applications.
• Write detailed medical summaries documenting mental illness severity and functional limitations.
• Communicate and coordinate application progress with SSA and Nebraska DDS.
• Identify and assist individuals in obtaining community resources and services.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Human Services or related field, or two years post High School coursework in a Human Services field plus two years relevant experience/training.
• Demonstrated knowledge and skills in mental health and substance use rehabilitation and recovery principles.
• Ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing.
• Proficiency in creative writing and report writing.
• Basic knowledge of characteristics and needs of persons with serious mental illness.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience working with high schoolers.
• Valid driver's license and good driving record.

Benefits

• Disability insurance