Sharon Bell
Springfield,NY
Summary
Seasoned social services professional with extensive experience in eligibility determination, employment engagement, and case management. Skilled in assisting individuals and families to achieve economic independence and self-sufficiency through comprehensive service delivery, needs assessment, and referral coordination.
Overview
32
32
years of professional experience
Work History
Job Opportunity Specialist (JOS)
Human Resources Administration, Department of Social Services
11.2021 - 04.2022
- I interviewed participants and referred them to appropriate services to promote self-sufficiency
- Recorded and summarized referral information for administrative follow-up
- Assessed and provided emergency assistance to address crises (e.g., rent arrears, homelessness, utility shut-offs, domestic violence)
- Issued emergency Medicaid and EBT cards, referrals, carfare, and budget letters as needed
- Delivered exceptional customer service by taking action on active cases and documenting all pertinent data
- Explained agency services, eligibility requirements, and regulations for public assistance and related benefits
- Coordinated referrals for childcare, medical, substance abuse, and other supportive services
Associate Job Specialist I
Human Resources Administration, Department of Social Services
08.2002 - 05.2008
- Conducted in-depth interviews and directed participants to employment and training services
- Evaluated participant needs and processed emergency assistance to prevent or resolve crisis situations
- Developed individualized plans to enhance employability and promote long-term self-sufficiency
- Maintained accurate case records and prepared summaries for administrative review
Eligibility Specialist III
Human Resources Administration, Department of Social Services
01.1990 - 07.2002
- Processed applications for Family Assistance, Safety Net, and emergency “one-shot deal” cases
- Conducted eligibility interviews and determined qualification for public assistance, SNAP, and Medicaid
- Assessed employability and developed individualized self-sufficiency plans
- Managed all aspects of case maintenance, including eligibility updates, service coordination, and employment referrals
- Worked collaboratively with clients to remove barriers to employment and ensure continued eligibility
Education
Bachelor of Science - Public Administration
The University of Phoenix
Phoenix, AZ09.2025
Skills
- Case Management & Client Advocacy
- Eligibility Determination & Public Assistance Programs
- Employment Readiness & Participant Engagement
- Crisis Intervention & Emergency Assistance
- Strong interpersonal & communication skills
- Knowledge of Social Service Regulations and Policies
- Record-Keeping & Documentation Accuracy
Timeline
Job Opportunity Specialist (JOS)
Human Resources Administration, Department of Social Services
11.2021 - 04.2022
Associate Job Specialist I
Human Resources Administration, Department of Social Services
08.2002 - 05.2008
Eligibility Specialist III
Human Resources Administration, Department of Social Services
01.1990 - 07.2002
Bachelor of Science - Public Administration
The University of Phoenix