ABOUT THE AFGHAN SUPPORT NETWORK:

The Afghan Support Network is the first culturally specific nonprofit organization that has been formed to target the needs of Afghan refugees and the Afghan-American community in the greater Portland area. 

OUR MISSION: To empower Afghans in the Portland Metro through advocacy, services, and resources.

OUR VISION: A future in which all Afghans prosper and contribute to the well-being and success of their community.

JOB SUMMARY:

The Community Engagement Specialist (CES) is responsible for providing culturally and linguistically appropriate wrap-around case management services to recently arrived Afghan refugees in Oregon. The CES will work with services providers, resettlement organizations, partner nonprofits & CBOs, government organizations and community members to ensure Afghans are receiving the services and resources they need to succeed in America. The position would work on ASN’s HRSN services and is also responsible for engaging in community outreach and engagement activities to ensure Afghans are connected and supported by the larger receiver community. The position reports directly to Community Advancement Director & would work from ASN Head-office, Beaverton.  

REQUIREMENTS:

• Fluency in English, Dari, and Pashto required 
• Valid Driver’s License and safe driving record
• Must be able to pass an extensive background investigation
• Some weekend and evening work may be required

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide comprehensive, culturally, and linguistically appropriate wrap-around case management services to clients. Case management includes support around housing, access to benefits, children’s placement in schools, coordination with health and mental health resources, connection to employment programs, and provision of basic needs.
• Conduct home and site visits as needed.
• Serve as an advocate and cultural liaison for clients and mainstream service providers.
• Provide interpretation and translation as able and as needed.
• Organize or provide transportation for clients to attend scheduled appointments.
• Facilitate clients’ access to eligible state or federal benefits and services.
• Provide role modeling to clients on self-regulation and on how to make appointments, to advocate for the needs of themselves and their children, and to become self-sufficient in accessing services and resources in the community.
• Protect clients’ privacy and follow agency and funder confidentiality policies.
• Maintain up-to-date client records in case files, in ASN’s client database, and in any funder-required client databases.
• Engage in outreach and community engagement activities and stay involved with community gatherings and ensure clients integration within the community.
• Work with volunteers and community groups willing to support clients.
• Adhere to all ASN and funder policies and procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

JOB SPECIFIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associate degree in human services or equivalent field, or equivalent work or life experience required.
• Experience working with young children and their families.
• Experience in case management or social work preferred.
• Knowledge of local refugee, and immigrant communities, community leaders, and organizations preferred.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills, including keen listening ability and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to work well in a team setting, as well as independently; ability to be flexible and adapt well to different dynamics in a fast-paced work environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, and Outlook. 
• Communication and customer service skills sufficient to deal effectively with the public, vendors, and staff, using written and/or verbal communication. 
• Time, project management, and problem-solving skills; Adapt to frequent changes in workload.

Benefits:

The Afghan Support Network offers a competitive benefits package that supports the well-being and work-life balance of our employees.

• 12 paid holidays per year

• Generous paid time off and sick leave policies

• Comprehensive medical and dental insurance fully covered by ASN

• 401(k) retirement plan

• Supportive and inclusive work culture recognized as one of the Best Places to Work in 2024

• Opportunities for professional growth and community impact

HOW TO APPLY:

Interested candidates should email their resume and a cover letter outlining their qualifications and interest in the position to hello@asnpdx.org. Please include “CES application” in the subject line.

The Afghan Support Network is committed to diversity and equal opportunity, encouraging applications from all individuals, including those from refugee and immigrant communities.