Program coordinator- champ
Posted: June 2025
To Apply: Send cover letter and resume to Rachel Haseley, CHRO: rhaseley@elderjusticeny.org
Location: Center for Elder Law & Justice - 438 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14202
Salary Range: Starting at $50,000
Center for Elder Law & Justice is looking to fill a full time Program Coordinator – CHAMP (Community Health Access to Addiction and Mental Healthcare Project)
About CELJ:
Center for Elder Law & Justice (CELJ) is a civil legal services organization fighting for justice, primarily for low-income older adults, in 10 counties in Western New York. Our attorneys stop illegal evictions, save clients homes from foreclosure, put a stop to elder domestic violence, fight for public benefits, work with our local immigrant & refugee populations, and represent grandparents and other kinship care relatives in custody and neglect petitions in family court. We also advocate for systems-wide policy changes, commenting frequently on changes to regulations and working with local elected leaders on legislation that will impact the poor and vulnerable older adults in our area. We believe that independence and dignity are the hallmarks of justice.
Essential Functions:
Direct Assistance (Individual Case Support)
Provide one-on-one assistance to individuals navigating insurance issues related to mental health and substance use disorder (SUD) treatment.
Help consumers access covered benefits, resolve billing disputes, file appeals/complaints, and understand parity laws.
Coordinate closely with internal legal units for case referrals as needed.
Community Outreach & Education.
Schedule, promote, and conduct presentations and outreach events throughout WNY.
Educate community members, advocates, and providers about CHAMP and consumer rights.
Collaborate with CELJ’s communications team to create and distribute outreach materials.
Program Administration & Reporting
Track service delivery, outreach activities, and outcomes in alignment with CHAMP guidelines.
Participate in program trainings and meetings, including mandatory Albany-based orientation and monthly sessions.
Collect client success stories (with consent) to support program visibility and advocacy.
Collaboration & Policy Impact
Identify and report trends and systemic issues experienced by consumers.
Contribute to broader advocacy efforts by providing client-centered feedback to policymakers and CSS.
Preferred Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in public health, social work, human services, or a related field preferred. Equivalent experience considered.
Experience working with individuals affected by mental illness and/or SUD.
Strong communication skills and a commitment to health equity and culturally competent service delivery.
Knowledge of health insurance systems (Medicaid, Medicare, commercial) a plus.
Experience in community outreach or education preferred.
Must have valid driver's license and ability to travel throughout WNY.
Excellent writing, speaking and organizational skills and the ability to communicate effectively with clients, healthcare providers, community organizations, attorneys, and the public
Ability to work efficiently and accurately while exhibiting patience and diplomacy
CELJ offers a competitive benefits and compensation package, including:
Generous vacation and sick time
Employer covered health, dental & vision
Fourteen holidays a year, plus two half-day holidays
Summer hours between Memorial Day and Labor Day
Payment of license fees and association dues
Encouragement of professional development
To Apply: Send cover letter and resume to Rachel Haseley, CHRO, rhaseley@elderjusticeny.org
CELJ is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Employer recruits without regard to sex, race, sexual orientation, or gender identity, and any such candidates are strongly encouraged to apply