Resource Navigation Specialist (full-time)

Requirements

• Empathic, ability to follow through, and reliable with the creativity and ability to navigate challenging situations and circumstances
• Previous experience working with guests
• Ability to build an in-depth knowledge of Action House programming and local resources
• Demonstrated, strong working knowledge of MIBridges and other government and community resources
• Strong knowledge of homelessness in the community and housing resources, including homeless verification letters, HUD, and how, where, and when to refer guests who are unstably housed
• Advanced training on and knowledge of motivational interviewing, mental health first aid, de-escalation, etc.
• Understands stages of change and is able to meet clients where they are at
• Demonstrated ability to set boundaries and to practice self-care
• Deep understanding of government IDs/ID document applications
• Strong customer service skills with the proven ability to work with diverse populations
• Interest in social services/human services, previous experience preferred
• Strong, active listening skills and ability to offer empathy
• Skilled in conflict resolution (CPI) and crisis management
• A team player with a flexible and creative approach within a friendly, yet demanding, work environment
• Ability to handle a variety of constituencies, manage multiple tasks simultaneously and thrive in a complex environment with multiple priorities

Benefits

Additional Information

As a Resource Navigation Specialist, you'll be responsible for responding to and reaching out to our guests and neighbors in need who are accessing our programs, including Food Club, Financial Wellness, and Outreach, with a caring hand to help support and connect them to internal and external resources. You'll often serve as the first point of contact for our guests and will help them navigate Community Action House's many programs and resources, as well as general resources in our area. Most of our guest interactions are the triage for our services, acting as the initial intake to then refer guests into our services or connect them with external services. The Resource Navigation Specialist works with guests and community members to connect them to Action House programs and services, as well as external resources to help remove barriers for our guests. This role connects with guests and evaluates needs onsite and at satellite locations, while assisting with intake paperwork and making internal and external program referrals. This position will require the empathy and ability to support people facing a variety of circumstances, with a passion for resource connection, and a strong attention to detail. We are looking for kind and creative problem solvers who have the capacity to help others navigate challenging times with dignity while living Our Values. Start Date: as soon as possible About Community Action House Since its founding in 1969, Community Action House has been the focal point of community efforts to provide critical support and pathways out of poverty for our neighbors in need. Our community-powered work takes a client-centric approach that meets people wherever they are at and offers services that enhance ownership and agency. Our work is organized in three interconnected areas: Food Access, Resource Navigation, and Financial Wellness. Welcome, excellence, and collaboration are some of our core values. (www.communityactionhouse.org) In October 2021, we launched our new 'Food Club & Opportunity Hub' to expand efficient, impactful healthy food assistance with the on-site integration of other pathway programs. More recently, we announced a partnership with Dwelling Place to help address the affordable housing crisis here in Holland. In July 2023, we publicly launched our expansion of Lakeshore Food Rescue. (www.lakeshorefoodrescue.org) In April 2026, we are launching our second Resale Store in Holland, MI. Our first Resale Store has proven that it can generate consistent, flexible funding that directly supports our work-while also providing practical resources for the people we serve. A second store allows us to scale that success. It's a high-impact use of community assets: turning donated goods and volunteer engagement into reliable income, reducing our dependence on fluctuating grants and charitable contributions. (https://www.communityactionhouse.org/resale-expansion) Organizational budget: $14M+ (inclusive of $7-8M of in kind support) Agency Size: 80 staff and 3,000+ annual volunteers Our Values Who we are. Who we aspire to be. What drives us. What unites us. > Radically Welcoming > Guest-Centered > Lead with Kindness > Curiosity-Driven > Always Improving > Collaborative by Design > Contagious Commitment > One Team If you're excited to collaborate on our mission, grow your skills, and be part of a team that deeply cares, we'd love to hear from you.

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