RICA Educational Advocacy Specialist-Grant

Job Summary:   The RICA Educational Advocacy (EA) Specialist provides direct service support to children, adolescents, and families through school-based and community-based programming within Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital (LLUCH) RICA and affiliated community partnerships. This position is responsible for delivering educational advocacy, care coordination, outreach, and youth engagement services to an assigned caseload of students and families. Working within a trauma-informed, resilience-focused framework, the EA Specialist supports youth and families in navigating educational, behavioral health, healthcare, and community systems while helping to address social determinants of health (SDOH) that may impact student success and overall well-being. The EA Specialist collaborates with school personnel, families, healthcare providers, and community partners to promote engagement, reduce barriers to care and education, facilitate resource linkage, and support positive academic, behavioral, and social outcomes. This role maintains accurate documentation, participates in multidisciplinary activities, and supports program implementation in alignment with organizational and grant requirements. Performs other duties as needed.  

Education and Experience:   Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Psychology, Education, Human Services, Public Health, Counseling, or related field required.   Experience in outreach, mentoring, advocacy, patient engagement, or care coordination.   Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, or alternative schedules to support programming is preferred.

Knowledge and Skills:    Knowledge of patient advocacy, care coordination, and whole-person care approaches, including social determinants of health (SDOH), youth development principles, and school-based and community programming. Familiarity with Medi-Cal, IEHP requirements, HIPAA, FERPA, mandated reporting, and confidentiality standards. Strong communication skills in English, both verbal and written, with the ability to engage professionally with youth, families, school personnel, healthcare providers, and community partners. Skilled in the use of computers, standard software applications (e.g., Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint), and basic office equipment required for the position. Strong organizational and critical thinking skills, including the ability to manage multiple priorities, problem-solve, and work effectively both independently and as part of a team in fast-paced or high-pressure environments. Sound judgment, attention to detail, and consistent follow-through in completing assigned responsibilities accurately and on time. Sufficient sensory and communication skills to perform essential job functions, including reading documents, participating in meetings, using electronic systems, and engaging in in-person and telephone communication.

Licensures and Certifications:    Valid driver’s license required.   Community Health Worker certification required, or in progress.