Outreach Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Opportunity for advancement
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule

For 40 years, Haitian Centers Council (HCC) has served as a trusted community resource for underserved and vulnerable populations, including immigrants, seniors, and low-income individuals. HCC provides free educational programs, healthcare linkages, prevention services, and social support to the Caribbean community regardless of economic status. Guided by the needs and voices of those it serves, HCC has spent four decades fostering a stronger, more resilient community by promoting equity, addressing health and racial disparities, and collaborating with community partners. At its core, HCC believes that wellness begins with self-care and the creation of safe, inclusive environments where everyone can thrive.

Program Overview

The Targeted Prevention and Support Services (TPSS) Program aims to reduce HIV transmission and improve sexual health outcomes among the general population through community-based outreach, education, screening, and linkage to care. Services are delivered using evidence informed, harm-reduction, and culturally responsive approaches that promote access, equity, and engagement.

Purpose of the Position

The Outreach Specialist is responsible for implementing TPSS program activities through direct community outreach, rapid testing services, facilitation of group-level interventions, and linkage to prevention and care services. The role supports early identification of HIV and HCV risk, promotes biomedical prevention strategies, and ensures timely documentation and program compliance.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Community Outreach & Engagement

• Conduct community outreach a minimum of three (3) times per week, with a focus on the general population.
• Identify and prioritize outreach efforts in areas with high HIV infection rates using program data and NYC ETE dashboard.
• Engage community members through street outreach, community events, health fairs, and mobile health unit activities.
• Provide education on HIV, HCV, STI prevention, sexual health, and risk reduction strategies.
• Distribute prevention materials and promote awareness of available services.
• Work at least one (1) Saturday per month to support outreach and testing efforts.
• Work at least one (1) evening per week to support outreach activities or agency wide programming.

Testing & Screening Services

• Provide rapid HIV and Hepatitis C (HCV) testing.
• Conduct pre- and post-test counseling in accordance with NYSDOH and agency protocols.
• Ensure informed consent, confidentiality, and accurate completion of all testing documentation.
• Complete DBS confirmatory testing as needed and provide follow-up support.

Interventions & Group Activities

• Co-facilitate group level interventions in collaboration with program staff.
• Assist with recruitment, facilitation, and participant engagement for group interventions.
• Support structured group sessions focused on HIV prevention, sexual health, and linkage to care.

Referrals & Linkage to Care

• Refer clients for PrEP, PEP, STI testing, and HIV/HCV medical care, as appropriate.
• Educate clients on biomedical prevention options and assist with navigation to care.
• Support warm handoffs and follow-up to promote successful linkage to services.

Mobile Health Unit Responsibilities

• Support the maintenance and operation of the mobile health unit, including:
• Daily temperature checks
• Accurate mileage logs and vehicle reports
• Completion of van inspection forms
• Ensure the mobile unit is stocked, clean, and compliant with safety and program standards.
• Report mechanical or safety concerns promptly.

Data Entry, Documentation & Quality Assurance

• Ensure all outreach, testing, and service data is entered accurately by the end of each business week.
• Perform self-audits of testing forms to ensure completeness, accuracy, and compliance with program and funder requirements.
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA, NYSDOH, and agency policies.
• Participate in internal quality improvement activities.

Training & Professional Development

• Attend a minimum of twelve (12) trainings per contract year.
• Participate in supervision, staff meetings, and professional development activities.
• Remain current on HIV/HCV prevention guidance and TPSS program updates.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Associate’s degree or higher in a human service related field (e.g., social work, public health, psychology, health education, or a related discipline) is strongly preferred 
• Valid New York State driver’s license is required . 
• Minimum of three (3) years of proven outreach experience, preferably within HIV/STI prevention and public health. 
• Willingness and ability to work late evenings and weekends as required. 
• Experience conducting or supporting rapid HIV and/or HCV testing preferred. 
• Strong knowledge of HIV prevention strategies, harm reduction, and community engagement best practices. 
• Excellent organizational, documentation, and time-management skills. 
• Proficiency in basic computer applications and electronic data systems for documentation and reporting. 
• Bilingual ability is a plus.