Community Resource Specialist

Who We Are

Ascencia is a nonprofit homeless services agency based in Glendale, California, dedicated to helping individuals and families across L.A. County move from homelessness to permanent housing. Through street outreach, emergency shelter, case management, mental health care, and more, we provide compassionate, comprehensive support. With a 97% housing retention rate, our success reflects the dedication of our staff, volunteers, and community partners who make stability possible for those we serve.

Benefits

• 401(k) and 401(k) matching
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

Job Description

The Community Resources Specialist provides Glendale Library, Arts & Culture patrons with information and direct support to access community resources. This role bridges the gap between library users and social service agencies by offering information, making referrals, and helping individuals navigate complex systems. The position also supports library personnel in responding effectively to patrons experiencing mental health challenges or homelessness.

Position Type: Full-Time

Pay Rate: $29.00

Reports To: Director of Programs

Duties and Responsibilities

Administrative

• Collaborate with City of Glendale Library, Arts & Culture personnel to assist patrons in need of social services.
• Receive training from the California State Library and participate in a statewide library community of practice.
• Participate in the City of Glendale’s Continuum of Care team.
• Assist in conducting a community needs assessment.
• Help library staff develop MOUs with local social service organizations.
• Maintain accurate client-related recordkeeping and reporting systems as required by contracts.
• Ensure timely submission of complete and accurate program reports.
• Model best practices for engaging individuals with mental illness.
• Attend Ascencia all-staff meetings on the 2nd Thursday of each month from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.

Client Services

• Provide patrons with community resource information and referrals for services at all eight Glendale Library, Arts & Culture locations (primarily based at the Downtown Central Library).
• Educate and model intervention techniques for library personnel to effectively engage challenging patrons.
• Conduct regular walkthroughs to identify and engage patrons in need of services, connecting them to area providers.
• Represent Ascencia at community, coalition, and library-related meetings.
• Strengthen partnerships between the library and social service agencies.
• Intervene and assist in de-escalating interactions between individuals and library staff when needed.
• Provide coaching and guidance to library staff on best practices for client engagement.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work or related field required; Master’s Degree preferred.
• Minimum four years of social service experience working with homeless individuals and families.
• Knowledge of outreach techniques, local resources, and the Continuum of Care for unhoused individuals.
• Strong problem-solving and interpersonal skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and documentation systems.
• Familiarity with the HEARTH Act and co-occurring disorders (substance use and untreated mental illness).
• Understanding of Housing First and Harm Reduction models.
• Must have own transportation and meet insurance carrier requirements for agency driving approval.
• Valid driver’s license and proof of active auto insurance required.
• Bilingual in Armenian or Spanish preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.
• Frequent standing, walking, and engaging in outreach activities.
• Ability to respond quickly to emergencies or crises in the community.
• Use of computer and phone for documentation and communication.

Other Conditions

This job description is not intended to be a complete list of responsibilities or tasks. Duties may change at any time based on the needs of the organization.

EEO Statement

Ascencia is an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, disability status, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.