Community Support Services Engagement Specialist

Volunteers of America - Greater New York, Inc.

About The Position

This Community Support Services Engagement Specialist will identify, link, and work to maintain engagement with homeless individuals using the Housing First model as well as other evidence-based practices such as Motivational Interviewing. The Community Support Services Engagement Specialist is responsible to provide behavioral health rehabilitation services and supports that is necessary to assist individuals in achieving recovery goals in various life roles such as housing, employment, educational, and/or social domains. Services are provided that improve skills, self-esteem, and a sense of belonging to the larger community. The Community Support Services Engagement Specialist maintains a wellness and recovery-oriented environment by using person-first language, and person-centered and rehabilitation planning to individuals referred by the Middlesex Continuum of Care Committee and who meet the eligibility criteria to receive CSS. Excellent engagement skills with knowledge and practice of motivational interviewing and trauma informed care are essential for this position. The ability to work independently with strong focus, task oriented, non-judgmental, and able to set clear boundaries. Possess excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Requirements

The position requires a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in one of the helping professions, such as social work, human services, counseling, psychiatric rehabilitation, psychology, or criminal justice.
This position shall also have a valid state driver’s license with a safe driving record that meets agency procedures.

Nice To Haves

A minimum of 1 year experience working with homeless services and homeless outreach programs is preferred.
Certification as a psychiatric rehabilitation practitioner (CPRP) may be substituted for one year of experience.

Responsibilities

Contributing to the development, implementation, monitoring, and updating of the individualized rehabilitation plan.
Provide skill teaching to assist individuals in developing the skills in various areas that promotes the achieving and maintaining of valued life roles in the housing, employment, physical health, educational, and/or social domains and allows the individuals to achieve community integration and to remain in an independent living setting of his/her choice.
Document all observations, information, and services into the HMIS and EHR, ensuring each individual is entered within 48 hours of contact.
Performing crisis intervention services as needed.
Provide supportive counseling services to unhoused and formerly homeless but recently housed individuals.
Communicate observations and information about individuals to the Program Manager and clinical team.
Attend scheduled team meetings and clinical supervision. Demonstrates ability and flexibility to work as a team member.
Organize and support socialization activities through use of IMR or other evidence-based practices when indicated on the individual rehabilitation plan.
Participate in individual service coordination activities, including vocational and educational services.
Develop community resources for individuals to obtain affordable housing in the community.