Community Health Outreach Educator

About the role

The Community Health Outreach Educator at Planned Parenthood of Greater New York serves as a critical bridge between marginalized populations and the healthcare system, focusing specifically on Black, Latinx, and LGBTQIA2S+ communities. In this capacity, the hire will own the design and execution of outreach initiatives that promote health equity, accessibility, and systemic change. They will act as an advocate, educator, and cultural broker, ensuring that services are not only available but also welcoming and relevant to those who have historically been excluded. The role requires building deep, trusting relationships founded on humility, compassion, and a commitment to reducing health disparities. Ultimately, the Community Health Outreach Educator will foster inclusive environments where individuals feel safe seeking care and resources.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Analyze community needs and preferences within LGBTQ+ and Black communities to shape relevant and responsive outreach strategies.
• Design and implement educational workshops, health events, and interactive activities that advance health equity, awareness, and cultural inclusivity.
• Cultivate and sustain relationships with community members, local organizations, and grassroots leaders to strengthen access to sexual and reproductive health services.
• Champion the rights and well-being of LGBTQ+ and Black individuals by actively identifying and dismantling systemic barriers to quality care.
• Execute outreach programming across region 2 north, utilizing diverse community venues such as food pantries, laundromats, salons, and community-based organizations.
• Partner with community stakeholders to deepen collaborative efforts and reinforce a culture of inclusion and mutual support.
• Navigate cultural differences with humility and self-reflection to build authentic trust and rapport with participants from varied backgrounds.
• Deliver compassionate, non-judgmental support that ensures every individual interacting with the program feels safe and respected.
• Monitor and evaluate local, regional, and national resources to ensure community members receive timely and beneficial services and information.
• Maintain the accuracy and integrity of PPGNY's LGBTQ+ affirming referral directory in coordination with community engagement staff.
• Identify appropriate providers and services that align with client needs and facilitate seamless internal and external referrals.
• Proactively collaborate with internal and external partners to connect LGBTQ+ clients to navigation services, including insurance enrollment and specialized care.
• Act as the primary point of contact for LGBTQ+ clients, family members, and partner organizations regarding information, feedback, and communication.
• Co-develop and deliver training on LGBTQ+ healthcare access in partnership with LGBTQ+ Outreach staff for external agencies and PPGNY personnel.
• Support the planning, scheduling, and implementation of outreach and education programs from initial concept to execution.
• Prepare all workshop materials and ensure meticulous data collection and accurate reporting for program evaluation.
• Represent the department at internal and external meetings, coalitions, and community gatherings to advance PPGNY's mission.
• Work closely with colleagues to promote educational and advocacy opportunities and streamline referral pathways.
• Maintain proficiency in Salesforce and other reporting platforms to ensure thorough documentation and timely data submission.
• Complete all required documentation and reports in accordance with deadlines and organizational standards.
• Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability by taking on additional responsibilities in response to programmatic and grant-related demands.
• Contribute to cross-functional initiatives and special projects that support broader program goals and deliverables.
• Engage in continuous learning through participation in internal and external training opportunities to meet all role requirements.
• Uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethics in all interactions with clients, partners, and team members.
• Advocate for resource equity and ensure that underserved populations receive the support they need to achieve optimal health outcomes.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age and legally authorized to work in the United States.
• Must possess a high school diploma or equivalent; a bachelor's degree in a related field is preferred but not required.
• Must have the right to work authorization without sponsorship now or in the future.
• Must be willing to undergo a New York State criminal background check, including fingerprinting, as required by state law.
• Must be able to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 or a valid medical or religious exemption as mandated by Planned Parenthood of Greater New York.
• Must be comfortable working with diverse populations, including but not limited to Black, Latinx, and LGBTQIA2S+ communities.
• Must demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills in English to effectively engage with clients and partners.
• Must be able to travel across the seven counties of Fulton, Montgomery, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Warren, and Washington as required for outreach duties.
• Must be able to work full-time hours in accordance with the scheduled needs of the position.
• Must comply with all Planned Parenthood of Greater New York policies, procedures, and ethical guidelines.
• Must successfully complete all required PPGNY training modules on sexual and reproductive health, outreach practices, and facilitation techniques.
• Must meet all training deadlines and maintain up-to-date certification status where applicable.
• Must utilize Salesforce and other documentation platforms accurately and consistently for reporting purposes.
• Must adhere to strict confidentiality and privacy standards when handling client information and community data.
• Must demonstrate cultural humility and a willingness to reflect on one's own identity and biases in professional practice.
• Must be prepared to work in various community settings, including environments that may be challenging or resource-limited.
• Must show reliability, punctuality, and a strong sense of responsibility toward team commitments and client needs.

Practical notes

This position requires travel across the seven counties of Fulton, Montgomery, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Warren and Washington. This is a full-time role.