Community Engagement Specialist presso DotHouse Health

Description

SUMMARY:

The Community Engagement Specialist (CES) is a key member of the DotHouse Health Substance Use Disorder (SUD) team. Supported through the MassLeague–Mass General Brigham (MGB) SUD Equity Grant, this position strengthens relationships with community partners, expands awareness of DotHouse Health’s SUD and recovery services, and supports accessible, person-centered approaches to prevention, treatment, and recovery.

The CES will serve as a connector between DotHouse Health and the community—helping to build trust, increase awareness of available supports, and promote access to care for individuals and families affected by substance use.

Requirements

GENERAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and implement a community outreach plan      to connect with local residents, organizations, and key community spaces.
• Represent DotHouse Health at events, forums, and      meetings to share information about SUD and recovery services and      facilitate referrals.
• Build and sustain collaborative partnerships local      social services non-profits, healthcare facilities, carceral facilities,      detox centers, community behavioral health centers, schools, shelters,      faith-based organizations, and other external partners and stakeholders to      support coordinated outreach and education.
• Support community education and outreach related      to substance-use safety, including distribution of naloxone (Narcan) and      other overdose-prevention resources in coordination with the SUD team and      community partners.
• Develop and maintain a community resource directory/map and ensure its integration into patient care and staff awareness.
• Coordinate and/or support workshops, community discussions, or feedback forums that elevate community voice and inform      program planning.
• Identify and engage community leaders to promote education, destigmatization, and wellness around substance use.
• Participate in required grant-related meetings, including monthly community engagement forums and quarterly reporting.
• Document all outreach activities and contribute to evaluation of engagement impact.
• Champion inclusive, person-centered approaches to recovery and access across all DotHouse Health programs.
• Perform other duties consistent with the scope of community engagement work.

Education: 

· Bachelor’s degree preferred. Two additional years of relevant community-based experience may substitute for a degree

Experience: 

· Minimum two years of experience in community engagement, outreach, partnership development, or health/social services.

· Lived or working experience with individuals affected by substance use required.

· Familiarity with Dorchester/Roxbury/Mattapan communities strongly preferred.

Required Skills and Competencies

· Relationship-oriented, approachable, and comfortable with public speaking.

· Demonstrated commitment to inclusive, quality, and accessible care.

· Strong communication, organization, and follow-up skills.

· Able to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.

· Proficiency in Microsoft Office and ability to use data tracking tools.

· Flexible schedule, with availability for occasional evening/weekend events.

 . Valid Massachusetts driver’s license and ability to travel locally .