Northeast Kingdom Community Action (NEKCA) services the three counties in the heart of Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom. This region is known for rolling mountains, spectacular views, and some of the most beautiful lakes in North America. Outdoor recreation thrives here in the Kingdom, including cycling, skiing, hiking, golf, fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, and four-wheeling.

NEKCA’s staff consist of a hardworking team dedicated to the clients we serve while supporting one another in the work that we do.

Join the NEKCA team to experience the many benefits that we offer including:

• Health care coverage
• Dental care coverage
• Vision coverage
• Life/Short Term Disability/AD&D
• Retirement Plan
• Vacation
• Sick time off
• Paid holidays
• Employee Assistance Program

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The Outreach - Foodshelf Specialist will be primarily responsible for the daily functioning of our food shelf. Duties will include all ordering, maintaining food shelf grant documentation, and stocking and organizing. Outreach specialist will be responsible for representing NEKCA in the NEK on all food related initiatives.

The outreach Specialist will also be expected to support clients with their needs in the food shelf and the outreach department.

The Outreach Specialist will also keep abreast of community resources and benefits/policies that affect low-income people. Will also be responsible for all aspects of working within the Outreach department in a team effort approach.

• Demonstrate competency in all five areas of NEKCAs Core Values. Demonstrate respect for all NEKCA clients, the choices they make and the challenges they face.
• Manage flow of applicants to minimize waiting time
• Assess clients in crisis to determine immediate needs and develop plan for immediate response
• Maintain all food ordering for marketplace
• Assist households in completing forms for a variety of benefit programs, such as 3sqVT, SFA, Gilman housing, Rental applications. Understand and be able to negotiate Economic Services regulations and other information about government benefits available to assist low-income people.
• Responsible for all grant documentation and data collection
• Represent NEKCA in the NEK with all hunger related initiatives
• Develop and nurture contacts with other community-based organizations, participate in collaborative efforts to develop and expand services. Work collaboratively with other providers to address needs of low-income households
• Work as a team member to support colleagues, programs, and agency as a whole
• Be able to effectively communicate with supervisor and co workers
• Understand all program guidance and policies; incorporate them into daily procedures. Complete all necessary logs, documentation, and client files in accurate and timely manner.
• Maintain building this includes but not limited to shoveling walkways and driveway, putting down ice melt, general cleaning, recycling, and reporting any concerns or major damage.
• Attend and participate in staff, agency, and service provider meetings deemed necessary for job performance. Attend Fuel Program procedure and access computer trainings as needed.
• Provide clients with housing information, determination eligibility and assist with required paperwork
• Coordinate and follow-up with delivery of services to be provided to individuals/families moving towards self-sufficiency
• All other duties assigned by the supervisor consistent with the job description

• Must comply with NEKCA policies if hired.
• Staff will be required to authorize and pass NEKCA’s criminal record check process
• Staff is required to be completely vaccinated against COVID-19 or approved for an exemption prior to starting position
• Excellent punctuality and attendance are essential.
• High school diploma or equivalent required and the ability to read, write and have basic math skills. Additional related education and/or experience preferred.
• Must have home telephone and reliable transportation.
• Six months to one year experience in human services field preferred. Knowledge of community resources including local service providers, state and federal agencies.
• Must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Must be able to maintain good relations with clients, other outreach staff, and members of the community. Must have knowledge of basic computer skills and record keeping, including spreadsheet applications.
• This position is considered a mandated reporter.
• Must be assertive, responsible, and able to work flexible hours. Must be self-motivated, self-initiated and able to demonstrate positive problem-solving skills in stressful situations. Will work independently and as part of the Outreach team.

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NEKCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer & Provider

Applications from women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and people from diverse cultural backgrounds are encouraged. Qualifications for positions within NEKCA are determined by the duties and responsibilities of the position itself.

Persons with disabilities requiring accommodations in the application and interview process may call 802-334-7316 est. 212 or email at jobs@nekcavt.org.

All new and rehired employees and all current employees who have transferred or been promoted to a new position will be placed on a 6-month Trial Service Period.

All NEKCA staff contribute to a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion.