DEBRA J. HIRSCH
Hamilton
Summary
Dedicated community health professional with 15+ years of experience helping individuals and families access essential services, including healthcare, early childhood support, and community-based programs. Skilled in client advocacy, needs assessment, and navigating complex systems. Extensive background in working with diverse and underserved populations, with strong communication skills and training in motivational interviewing and mental health support. Passionate about improving access to community services and empowering individuals to make informed decisions.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Contract Employee-Client Relations/Accounting Clerk
Wheelhouse Marine Services
01.2023 - Current
- Provide administrative and coordination support in a fast-paced environment
- Maintain clear communication and organization across service tasks
Contract Employee – End-of-Life & Postpartum Doula
Madison County Rural Health
01.2023 - Current
- Support individuals and families through critical healthcare transitions
- Educate and guide clients in understanding care options and available services
- Connect families with healthcare and community resources
- Advocate for client needs while maintaining strict confidentiality
Program Manager / Site Coordinator
Connected Community Schools
03.2022 - 06.2023
- Coordinated services connecting families to health, social, and educational resources
- Built partnerships with community organizations to improve access to services
- Assisted families in navigating systems and completing applications for support programs
- Managed program operations and ensured compliance with guidelines
Healthy Families Support and Assessment Specialist
Community Action Partnership for Madison County
09.2007 - 03.2022
- Conducted in-home visits, assessing family needs and connecting them to healthcare and social services
- Guided families through applications and access to benefits and community programs
- Educated clients on health, development, and available resources
- Maintained detailed, confidential records in compliance with program standards
- Built trusting relationships with high-need and underserved populations
- Break in service: January 2016 – January 2017
Education
High School Diploma -
Morrisville-Eaton Central School
Morrisville, NY06-1991
Skills
- Community Outreach & Engagement
- Client Advocacy & Resource Coordination
- Needs Assessment & Intake Support
- Motivational Interviewing
- Cultural Competency & Trauma-Informed Care
- Confidentiality & Compliance
- Strong Documentation & Case Management
Certification
- Family Development Credential (FDC)
- Mental Health First Aid Certified
- Motivational Interviewing Training
- Certified Lactation Counselor (previously certified)
- Child Development Credentials (previously held)
- Extensive training in family support, assessment, and service coordination
KEY STRENGTHS FOR NAVIGATOR ROLE
- Proven ability to build trust with individuals and families in sensitive situations
- Strong experience explaining complex systems in clear, understandable terms
- Skilled at helping clients complete applications and access services
- Deep knowledge of community resources and referral networks
- Compassionate, non-judgmental approach with a focus on empowerment
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Committed to improving health equity and access to care
- Highly organized, dependable, and detail-oriented
- Experienced working with diverse populations across rural communities
Timeline
Contract Employee-Client Relations/Accounting Clerk
Wheelhouse Marine Services
01.2023 - Current
Contract Employee – End-of-Life & Postpartum Doula
Madison County Rural Health
01.2023 - Current
Program Manager / Site Coordinator
Connected Community Schools
03.2022 - 06.2023
Healthy Families Support and Assessment Specialist
Community Action Partnership for Madison County
09.2007 - 03.2022
High School Diploma -
Morrisville-Eaton Central School