Community Wellness Navigator

Why Join United Way of Central Florida?

Imagine a role where your heart for people and your ability to build trust directly improve someone’s access to healthcare, stability, and essential services.

At United Way of Central Florida (UWCF), we are committed to strengthening our community by removing barriers to care and ensuring that every resident has access to the support they need to thrive. As a Community Wellness Navigator, you will serve on the frontlines of impact -- guiding Polk County residents through healthcare enrollment and connecting individuals and families to vital resources.

This is a dynamic, community-based role ideal for someone who enjoys meaningful conversation, problem-solving in real time, and being out in the community making a tangible difference every day.

Position Overview

The Community Wellness Navigator serves as a frontline, community-facing professional who connects Polk County residents to the Polk HealthCare Plan and other essential health and social services.

This role requires independent judgment, strong interpersonal skills, and a deep commitment to service, supporting residents in navigating healthcare enrollment, accessing basic needs, and understanding available community resources.

Through direct service delivery, outreach, education, and collaboration, the Navigator advances community well-being, improves access to care, and supports population-level health outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Guide eligible residents through the Polk HealthCare Plan application and enrollment process with clarity and individualized support
• Provide direct navigation services connecting individuals and families to healthcare, food assistance, housing, transportation, childcare, and other social services
• Maintain accurate, timely, and complete documentation of all interactions, enrollments, referrals, and follow-ups within UWCF systems
• Conduct proactive outreach and education throughout Polk County to increase awareness of available services
• Represent UWCF at community events, enrollment fairs, and outreach activities, confidently engaging with individuals and groups
• Collaborate closely with team members and community partners to strengthen referral pathways and coordination of care
• Participate in team goal setting and contribute to achieving departmental benchmarks and Polk County Indigent Healthcare performance requirements
• Support special initiatives and pilot efforts that enhance access to care and improve the resident experience
• Assist with event setup and community-based activities, including transporting and setting up materials

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in health & human services, social work, public health, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience)
• Experience in community outreach, healthcare navigation, social services, customer service, or sales with strong public engagement required
• Experience working with diverse and multicultural populations strongly preferred
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of, or ability to quickly learn, local health and human service resources in Polk County
• Strong interpersonal and active listening skills with the ability to build trust and rapport
• Excellent communication skills, both one-on-one and in group settings
• Strong organizational, time-management, and problem-solving abilities in fast-paced environments
• Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) and comfort learning new systems; SharePoint familiarity a plus
• Demonstrates professional judgment, discretion, and commitment to confidentiality and ethical service delivery

Work Schedule & Environment

• Full-time, hourly (non-exempt)
• Frequent travel throughout Polk County
• Regular outdoor work in varying Florida weather conditions
• Occasional evening or weekend outreach events

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 35 pounds, including event materials and tents
• Ability to walk or stand for extended periods during outreach events
• Ability to push, pull, and transport equipment
• Ability to lift arms overhead for event setup
• Ability to work outdoors in varying environmental conditions year-round

Disaster Response

All UWCF employees are considered disaster response workers and may be expected to support emergency response efforts when activated, following personal and family safety.

Compensation & Benefits

This role pays $22.50/hour and includes a comprehensive benefits package with:

• Health and Life Insurances
• Paid time off and holidays
• Retirement savings plan
• Professional development opportunities

Inclusion at UWCF

United Way of Central Florida is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe diverse voices strengthen our mission and culture. All employment decisions are based on merit and business need.

UWCF is a drug-free workplace. Candidates must pass a drug screening prior to employment.

Join Our Team

If you are compassionate, community-minded, and energized by helping people navigate complex systems with clarity and dignity, we encourage you to apply.

Please submit your resume to: hr@uwcf.org