Hispanic Outreach Program

Many Hispanics in Summit County face language, cultural, economic, and legal barriers that limit their ability to receive much needed services. There is a lack of bilingual mental health professionals or staff at the local area hospitals and the lack of bilingual and culturally sensitive services makes it very difficult for Hispanics to obtain basic human services. The Hispanic Outreach Program of Catholic Social Services of Summit County assists with the acceptance of the growing Hispanic population in Summit County and some surrounding areas. The Hispanic population learns about and has access to the various community services and in the process, the institutions involved with the clients become better educated about the cultural issues of the Hispanic people.

The caseworker’s duties include but are not limited to: facilitating organizational development for the Hispanic community of Summit County; connecting people with government, human, and social services and coordinate services; assist in enrolling children in school; arrange for transportation; provide interpretation and translation services with agencies, criminal justice system, medical providers, mental health professionals, and other individuals or organizations as necessary; coordinate efforts for job training and employment; provide guidance in daily living for basic needs, housing, utilities, clothing, furniture, and food; arrange for information and referral; advocate for people served; interact with other supportive groups or individuals.