Make a difference in southwest Kansas by becoming an AmeriCorps member who helps people and families experiencing economic distress. This direct service position will work with individuals to:
Address immediate emergency needs.
Secure good quality financial assistance through economic benefits, tax refunds, tax credits, and financial education
Provide support to help people to make better financial choices and achieve a greater level of self sufficiency.
Members will serve as Emergency Assistance Workers under the supervision of Catholic Social Service staff. Watch the video below to learn more about AmeriCorps, then read further for some additional details about this service position. Click here to read reflections from past AmeriCorps members.
Specific Duties for an AmeriCorps Member/Emergency Assistance Worker with Catholic Social Service
Assist with applications for multiple benefits including: tax refunds and credits, the Food Assistance Program (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program – SNAP), state and federally funded health benefits (i.e. Medicaid, Medicare and SCHIP), the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) and the Child Care Subsidy.
Refer individuals and families to other services offered within the community..
Provide financial education sessions either as a group or one on one using "The Money Smart" program.
Participate with community service projects, fairs, and booths where information can be shared about food assistance, financial literacy, and the need for tax assistance counselors.
Complete monthly reports that summarize all activity. Utilize Excel spreadsheets to track individuals served. Administer client satisfaction surveys.
Participate in monthly conference calls, staff meetings, team building exercises with the other staff and members of AmeriCorps and Catholic Social Service.
Necessary Skills and Qualifications
Organized self-starter with independent thinking skills
Ability to work as part of a team and individually
Want to make a difference in southwest Kansas
Personal computer skills and a basic understanding of Microsoft Office and Excel
Preference will be given to individuals who are bilingual, and who have a background or interest in social service and/or accounting.
Members will receive orientation and training in AmeriCorps, Catholic Social Service, free tax preparation and financial education presentations using curriculum developed by the FDIC called “Money Smart.” Two members will be located in the Catholic Social Service office in Great Bend KS. All members will be expected to travel to adjacent counties to offer services as needed.
Established in 1965, Catholic Social Service provides a range of social services for people of all faiths that are designed to strengthen and empower individuals, families and communities throughout the 28 counties of southwest Kansas. We do this through direct service,cooperating agencies, and by providing social ministry support.
AmeriCorps members make a one year commitment to serve 900 hours between October 1, 2011 and September 30, 2012. Members receive a $400/month living allowance, and an education award of $2775. Catholic Social Service provides a positive work environment, a direct social service learning opportunity, a staff mentor throughout the year to provide support and guidance, and opportunities to build your resume and work portfolio. Catholic Social Service and AmeriCorps are equal opportunity organizations.
For more information, please contact Catholic Social Service staff by phone at 620-792-1393. Send resume to: Catholic Social Service, c/o Pattie McGurk, 2201 16th St, Great Bend KS 67530. Applications are available at: Catholic Social Service, 2201 16th Street, Great Bend KS, Resumes are also appreciated.
Members will receive orientation and training in AmeriCorps, Catholic Social Service, free tax preparation and financial education presentations using curriculum developed by the FDIC called “Money Smart.” Two members will be located in the Catholic Social Service office in Great Bend KS. All members will be expected to travel to adjacent counties to offer services as needed.