Soar Benefits Specialist

Community Alliance - Omaha, NE

Full-time

Omaha, NE

101-250 employees

Social Assistance

About the position

The SOAR Benefit Specialist is responsible for assisting individuals with mental illness in navigating the application process for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). This role is crucial in facilitating access to these benefits, which are essential for meeting the recovery needs of the individuals served. The primary focus of these services is on individuals who experience homelessness, particularly those with co-occurring mental illness and substance use disorders. The Specialist will work closely with clients to ensure they understand the application process and receive the support they need to successfully apply for these benefits. In this position, the Specialist will screen individuals for service eligibility based on program criteria and priorities for service. They will collect medical records and assessment information from multiple sources to expedite the application process. Writing detailed medical summaries is a key responsibility, as these documents must accurately document the severity and duration of the individual's mental illness and the resulting functional limitations that hinder their ability to obtain gainful employment. Regular communication and coordination with the Social Security Administration (SSA) and Nebraska Disability Determination Services (DDS) are essential to keep clients informed about their application progress. Additionally, the Specialist will identify other community resources that may benefit the individuals served and assist them in obtaining these services through referrals and coordination with other behavioral health, social service, and homeless service providers. This role requires a compassionate approach and a strong commitment to supporting individuals in their recovery journey.

Responsibilities

• Screen individuals for service eligibility based on program criteria and priorities for service.
• Collect medical records and assessment information from multiple sources to expedite the application process.
• Write detailed medical summaries documenting the severity and duration of the individual's mental illness and the resulting functional limitations in obtaining gainful employment.
• Communicate and coordinate application progress on a regular basis with Social Security Administration (SSA) and Nebraska Disability Determination Services (DDS).
• Identify other community resources of benefit to the person served and assist the individual in obtaining services through referral and coordination with other behavioral health, social service, and homeless service providers.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Human Services related field, or two years post High School course work in a Human Services field plus two years relevant experience/training of a professional nature.
• Demonstrated knowledge and skills in mental health and substance use rehabilitation and recovery principles, service delivery, and behavior intervention/management practices on direct service level.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing.
• Must be proficient in creative writing and report writing.
• Basic knowledge of characteristics and needs of persons with a serious mental illness, including persons with co-occurring mental illness and substance use disorders.
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with diverse individuals and groups.
• Possession of valid driver's license and good driving record.

Benefits

• Flexible scheduling
• Health insurance
• 401k
• Paid holidays