Description

WHO WE ARE: Founded in 1966, CRLA's mission is to fight for justice and individual rights alongside the most exploited communities of our society. Through a network of regional offices and cross-cutting programs, CRLA provides legal services to tens of thousands of low-income people annually. Our work impacts farmworkers, indigenous populations, individuals with disabilities, immigrant populations, LGBTQ+ communities, women, children, and low-income families in rural areas.

• Position: Community Worker - Immigration Initiative
• Experience: 6+ months
• Application Deadline: Open until filled
• Location: CRLA Modesto Office
• Term of Employment: Regular, Full Time (37.5hrs/week)
• Other: FLSA Non-Exempt, Union Position

Reporting to the Directing Attorney for the Immigration Initiative, the Community Worker will perform initial screenings for eligibility, interviews to determine the nature of the legal problem/s, conduct community outreach and presentations, and will seek DOJ accreditation to provide representation in affirmative Immigration matters.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Client Interviews: Engage with clients to determine their eligibility for immigration benefits, helping them gather the necessary documentation and information for their applications.
• Application Assistance: Provide support throughout the application process, which includes assisting with form completion, gathering supporting documents, and submitting applications in a timely manner.
• Case Management: Maintain a caseload of clients, ensuring timely follow-ups on their applications, while keeping detailed records of all interactions and progress.
• Advocacy: Act as an advocate for clients in their interactions with government/local agencies, and other service providers.
• Connecting Clients to Services: Help clients access additional support services such as healthcare, mental health services, housing assistance, and transportation.
• Legal Representation: Provide representation in administrative interviews and other settings appropriate for non-lawyers and help with the preparation of simple documents using standard forms.
• Community Outreach and Education: Provide legal information and skills training to individuals and groups to help our clients understand and assert their legal rights and responsibilities.
• Collaboration with other agencies: Maintain CRLA liaison with community organizations and groups to ensure that CRLA resources address client community needs.
• Program Compliance: learn rules and regulations, ensuring accurate record-keeping and documentation.
• Travel: Travel as needed, may be required to work outside the office on occasion
• Other Duties: Additional tasks may be assigned by the Supervisor as needed.

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS :

• Communication Skills: Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential, especially when working with diverse client groups, including those in crisis, seniors, people with disabilities, people of color, the homeless, non-English speakers, service providers, government employees, and community partners.
• Teamwork & Independence: The ability to work both independently and as part of a team is important. Being able to manage pressure with empathy and professionalism is key.
• Organizational and Case Management: Strong verbal, written, organizational and case management skills are needed
• Trauma informed: Experience with providing services with a trauma informed lens.
• Applicants must have car and car insurance.

HIGHLY DESIRABLE:

• Experience with working with marginalized or vulnerable populations.
• Experience working with immigrants.
• Experience working or volunteering with social service or non-profit organizations.
• Strong personal work ethic, initiative, and ability to organize time, manage diverse activities, and meet critical deadlines with minimal supervision.
• Bilingual (English & Spanish) or other language spoken by CRLA clients