Community Health Worker Intern

Under the supervision of the Director of Senior Services, the Community Health Worker Intern provides support, information, and referrals to seniors (and their caregivers) who are residents or receive services from the City of East Providence. This position will focus on meeting the 1000 hours of work experience needed to become certified as a Community Health Worker in Rhode Island. The position is located at the East Providence Senior Center.
Desired Knowledge, Experience, and Skills:

Experience in the field of aging and knowledge of the challenges faced by older adult populations and their caregivers.
Understanding of HIPPA regulations.
Portuguese and/or Spanish langauage skills (preferred).
Working knowledge of computer and internet communication; operation of standard office equipment, including multi-line telephone, photocopier, facsimile and personal computer using standard word processing and database software.

Duties and Responsibilities:

CHW Intern will work toward CHW certification to gain information and experience in the support of older adults, their caregivers and adults with disabilities.
Provide information, support and referrals to older adults and their caregivers.
Assists older adults and caregivers with system navigation of Medicare/Medicaid, subsidized housing, assisted living, long term care facilities, nursing homes, transportation, end of life planning, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, adult day services, and independent living etc.
Identify and address barriers faced by diverse populations such as language and transportation.
Assists older adults with filling out applications such as those needed for financial, housing and food assistance.
Maintains confidentiality.
Manages, receives, and stores all protected health information in compliance with HIPPA.
Communication of up-to-date information regarding Covid-19 including vaccines, boosters and testing; Assistance with on-line scheduling of vaccines and testing appointments.
Organize and recruit at risk older adults, caregivers and people with disabilities to evidence-based health and wellness programs.
Planning and organizing of activities that reduce social isolation.
Develops and maintains relationships with partner organizations to meet the needs of older adult residents, Senior Center members and caregivers.
Attend workgroups and committees as assigned.
Documents interactions, contacts and program attendance of residents and members.
Attendance of weekly team staff meetings.
Works as a team member with Senior Center staff and city employees to provide positive customer service to older adults and their caregivers in East Providence and others who live in surrounding cities and towns who are members of the East Providence Senior Center.
Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements:

High School diploma or GED
Must have completed the 70 hours of education requirement towards certification as a Community Health Worker (CHW) in Rhode Island.

Examination Weight:

100% Oral