Massachusetts Jobs

FLORENCE/MULTIPLE WIC SITES - PLEASE SEE WEBSITE FOR FULL JOB DESCRIPTION - WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor The WIC program improves food security and health for women and gender-diverse parents and their children up to age 5 and improves pregnancy and post-partum outcomes. The Breastfeeding Peer Counselor is a paraprofessional support person who gives basic breastfeeding information and encouragement to WIC pregnant and breastfeeding participants. ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS Has breastfed at least one baby within the last 5 years (does not have to be currently breastfeeding) Supportive of breastfeeding and able to help other mothers enjoy a positive experience. Required to have reliable telephone and ability to make phone calls from home to WIC clients. Required to work at least 5 hours/week. SKILLS REQUIRED ? Ability to work effectively with diverse cultural groups and socio-economic backgrounds. ? Basic computer skills: using a mouse, email, Microsoft office, Excel ? Strong verbal (in-person and phone) and written communication skills ? Good organizational skills and attention to detail ? Good customer service skills, relating to persons of diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, and communicating in a professional, courteous, and tactful manner. ? Understanding of data capture and tracking methods. ? Sensitivity to cultural and socioeconomic diversity and the needs of individuals with low incomes. ? Demonstrated commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive working environment. ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Attends breastfeeding training classes to become a peer counselor. 2. Receives a caseload of WIC participants and makes routine periodic contacts with all participants assigned. 3. Gives basic breastfeeding information and support to new mothers/parents, including telling them about the benefits of breastfeeding, overcoming common barriers, and getting a good start with breastfeeding. She also helps participants prevent and handle common breastfeeding concerns. 4. Counsels WIC pregnant and breastfeeding participants by telephone, home visits and/or hospital visits at scheduled intervals determined by the local WIC program. 5. Counsel participants in the WIC clinic. 6. Is available outside of the WIC clinic and the usual 8-5 working schedule to new mothers/parents who are having breastfeeding problems. 7. Respects each participant by keeping their information strictly confidential. 8. Keeps accurate records of all contacts made with WIC participants. 9. Refers participants, according to clinic-established protocols, to: WIC nutritionist or breastfeeding coordinator. Lactation consultant. Mother\'s physician or nurse. Public health programs in the community. Social service agencies. 10. Attends and assists with prenatal classes and breastfeeding support groups. 11. Attends monthly staff meetings and breastfeeding conferences/workshops as appropriate. 12. Reads assigned books and materials on breastfeeding that are provided by the supervisor. 13. May assist WIC staff in promoting breastfeeding peer counseling through special projects and duties as assigned. 14. Provide ongoing support to WIC sites. 15. Remote work available complying with the agency\'s policy. 16. Comply with agency and funders? reporting and documentation requirements. 17. Attend regularly scheduled supervision meetings, team meetings, mandatory agency trainings, and participate in professional development activities. 18. Performs related work as required. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of Criminal Offender Record check (C.O.R.I.) prior to hire and every three years. Evidence of a good driving record and ability to be covered under Community Action\'s non-owned and hired vehicle policy.