Case Manager - aka Client Advocate (internally)

Family Bridges•Oakland, CA

33d•$30 - $34

About The Position

At Family Bridges, we empower individuals, families, and seniors to achieve wellness, stability, and independence through culturally competent care. We are currently seeking a part-time or full-time Case Manager (internally titled Client Advocate) to join our Housing and Community Services team. This program is dedicated to serving unhoused individuals and those at risk of homelessness by restoring hope and inspiring change through meaningful, transformative relationships. Our goal is to make a positive impact by building connections that empower individuals and communities to thrive. JOB SUMMARY: The Client Advocate (CA) provides direct, trauma-informed, culturally competent support to unhoused individuals, justice impacted individuals and those at risk of homelessness. In this role, the CA assesses client needs and develops individualized service plans; guides clients through emergency shelter placement, housing applications, and transitions to permanent housing; and assists with enrollment in healthcare, public benefits, and community resources. CA advocates on behalf of clients with external agencies, maintains accurate case records, and collaborates with multidisciplinary team members to ensure holistic, wrap-around care. Driven by respect, compassion and equity, CA empowers clients to overcome barriers, build life skills for lasting stability, and achieve long-term stability. The CA is directly supervised by the HCS Program Manager, and ultimately responsible to the HCS Sr. Program Director.

Requirements

Associate's degree in social work, psychology, sociology, or a related field and/or 2 years' equivalent experience.
Minimum of 2 years' experience in case management, homeless services, or a closely related area working directly with unhoused populations or clients in homelessness prevention programs.
In-depth knowledge of public benefits programs (e.g., Medi-Cal, CalFresh, SSI/SSP) and local housing resources.
Demonstrated use of restorative approaches such as harm reduction, motivational interviewing, theoretical change models, trauma-informed care, non-violent communication, crisis intervention, and emotional regulation.
Demonstrated ability to assess client needs, develop individualized service plans, and monitor progress.
Proficiency with case management databases and systems (e.g., Alameda County HMIS, Salesforce).
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including documentation and client advocacy with the ability to effectively engage culturally diverse populations and maintain a professional demeanor.
Proficiency with Google Suite, Microsoft Suite, and/or Slack applications, including spreadsheets, word processing, calendars, and messaging tools.
Demonstrated ability to take initiative, develop creative solutions, and execute tasks in an organized and timely manner.
Strong attention to detail, with the ability to multitask, prioritize, and work both independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment.
Valid California driver's license, reliable transportation, and ability to travel within service area.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's or Master's degree in social work, psychology, counseling, public health, or a related field and/or 4 years' equivalent experience.
3+ years' experience in case management, homeless services, or a closely related area working directly with unhoused populations or clients in homelessness prevention programs.
Advanced proficiency with Alameda County HMIS, Salesforce, or similar client-management systems.
Demonstrated success in securing permanent housing placements and navigating landlord/tenant processes.
Fluency in additional languages (e.g., Mandarin, Vietnamese, Spanish).
Established network with local housing providers, emergency shelters, and public agencies.
Experience with outreach in encampments or street-based settings.

Responsibilities

Conduct comprehensive assessments to identify clients' housing, health, and support needs.
Develop and implement individualized service plans outlining goals, timelines, and required resources.
Guide clients through emergency shelter intake, housing applications, and placement processes.
Assist with enrollment in public benefits (e.g., Medi-Cal, CalFresh, SSI/SSP) and community resource/support programs.
Advocate for clients with landlords, shelter providers, government agencies, and healthcare systems.
Monitor client progress, adjust service plans as needed, and ensure continuity of care.
Maintain accurate, timely case notes and documentation in the agency's database and other required systems (e.g., Alameda County HMIS).
Facilitate referrals to mental health, substance-use treatment, employment services, and other wrap-around supports.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary team members (e.g., outreach workers, mediators, coordinators ).
Participate in regular case conferences and contribute to program evaluation and improvement.
Provide crisis intervention, conflict resolution, and safety planning when necessary.
Conduct community outreach and build partnerships with service providers and local stakeholders.
Perform additional duties as assigned by supervisor to support evolving program and organizational needs.