LGBTQ+ Outreach & Engagement Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: LGBTQ+ Outreach & Engagement Specialist
Organization: In Our Own Voices, Inc. (IOOV)
Location: Albany, NY
Employment Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Director of Health Services

Organizational Mission

In Our Own Voices, Inc. (IOOV) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the physical, mental, spiritual, political, cultural, and economic survival and growth of LGBTQ+ people of color. As one of the few comprehensive LGBTQ+ POC agencies in the United States, IOOV leads with cultural humility, equity, and justice at the core of every program and service we provide.

Position Summary

The LGBTQ+ Outreach & Engagement Specialist is a frontline role responsible for conducting culturally responsive outreach, education, and HIV/HCV testing services to marginalized LGBTQ+ communities, with a focus on Women who have Sex with Women (WSW), Young Men who have Sex with Men (YMSM), and Transgender, Gender Non-Conforming, and Non-Binary (TGNCNB) individuals of color.

This position blends public health outreach with peer engagement, community event participation, and client-centered support to help reduce health disparities and improve access to care.

Key Responsibilities

Outreach, Testing & Education

• Conduct in-person and virtual outreach to WSW, YMSM, and TGNCNB individuals, especially in underserved communities.
• Provide HIV and HCV testing, counseling, and referrals using trauma-informed, culturally competent approaches.
• Develop, adapt, and distribute health education materials tailored to the needs of diverse LGBTQ+ communities.

Community Engagement & Collaboration

• Participate in community health fairs, barbershops, salons, nightlife venues, and college campuses to reach priority populations.
• Build and maintain collaborative relationships with community partners, local businesses, and service providers to expand outreach efforts.
• Represent IOOV at relevant coalitions, advisory groups, and events.

Client Services & Follow-Up

• Ensure clients are linked to appropriate care and support services, including PrEP, STI screening, case management, and mental health services.
• Conduct follow-ups to support client retention and health engagement.

Documentation & Compliance

• Accurately document outreach efforts, client interactions, testing results, and follow-up activities in accordance with IOOV and funder protocols.
• Submit timely and complete monthly reports and data extracts.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

• Associate’s degree in health education, human services, or a related field (Bachelor’s degree preferred).
• At least 1 year of professional experience working with TGNCNB, WSW, and/or YMSM communities.
• At least 1 year of experience in HIV prevention, sexual health education, or human services outreach.
• Demonstrated cultural competency and comfort engaging diverse LGBTQ+ communities in public settings.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.
• Valid NYS driver’s license and reliable transportation.

Preferred

• Bilingual (Spanish/English) strongly preferred.
• Certified in HIV/HCV testing or willingness to complete certification within the first 90 days.
• Experience working in nightlife, college, or grassroots community settings.

Key Skills & Attributes

• Deep understanding of intersectionality, health equity, and LGBTQ+ cultural dynamics.
• Skilled in community-building and establishing trust with historically marginalized populations.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Comfortable providing services in both structured settings and nontraditional venues.
• Proficient in data entry, reporting, and digital communication platforms.

In Our Own Voices, Inc. (IOOV) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the needs of LGBTQ+ communities, with a focus on people of color. Our mission is to enhance the health, wellness, and overall quality of life for LGBTQ+ individuals through advocacy, support services, and community-building activities. We offer a wide range of programs, including health services, mental health support, youth services, and cultural events, all aimed at fostering a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment. At IOOV, we are committed to promoting social justice and empowering marginalized communities to thrive.

Company Description

In Our Own Voices, Inc. (IOOV) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the needs of LGBTQ+ communities, with a focus on people of color. Our mission is to enhance the health, wellness, and overall quality of life for LGBTQ+ individuals through advocacy, support services, and community-building activities. We offer a wide range of programs, including health services, mental health support, youth services, and cultural events, all aimed at fostering a safe, inclusive, and equitable environment. At IOOV, we are committed to promoting social justice and empowering marginalized communities to thrive.