Counselor, Part-time - Woods Mullen Shelter (Homeless Services Bureau)

Boston Public Health Commission•Boston, MA

5h•Onsite

About The Position

The Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) is dedicated to protecting, preserving, and promoting the health and well-being of all Boston residents, with a special focus on the most vulnerable. The BPHC aims to create a thriving Boston where all residents can lead healthy, fulfilling lives, free from the impacts of racism, poverty, violence, and other systems of oppression. All staff and leadership are expected to commit to fostering a culture of antiracism and advancing racial equity and justice across all bureaus, programs, and offices. The Homeless Services Bureau, established in 1983, offers emergency shelter, workforce development, and housing services to individuals experiencing homelessness, with the objective of making homelessness in Boston rare, brief, and a one-time occurrence. As one of New England's largest shelter providers, the bureau operates two 24/7 emergency shelters, serving over 5,000 homeless individuals annually with essential services including food, beds, lockers, emergency clothing, healthcare, case management, and housing assistance. Utilizing a housing-first framework, trauma-informed care, restorative justice, and health equity principles, the bureau strives to help individuals transition from homelessness to stable housing as quickly as possible.

Requirements

Associate of Science Degree OR High School Diploma / GED and 1 year of related experience.
Experience working with diverse ethnic, racial, and low-income populations required.
Able to follow directions and work harmoniously with staff and guests.
Strong written and verbal skills required.
Promote health equity, inclusion, and diversity within the BPHC, department and community.
Knowledge of or willingness to learn about the role of public health in addressing racism, the social determinants of health, and inequities in health outcomes as well as strategies to advance racial justice and health equity.
Valid, active Massachusetts (MA) driver's license and good driving record required. Applicants who do not possess a valid MA driver's license are eligible for hire but must obtain a valid, active MA driver's license within the first six (6) months of employment and thereafter maintain such license as conditions of employment.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with addicted and mentally ill populations preferred.
Computer literacy preferred.
Bi-Lingual/Spanish speaking preferred.

Responsibilities

Ensures overall safety of guests and shelter environment. Performs rounds throughout the unit. Searches clients for contraband upon arrival in unit.
Intervenes to de-escalate conflict situations, anticipating potential conflict situations and intervening prior to crisis.
Develops positive professional relationships with guests to facilitate care.
Maintains stable environment by ensuring compliance with rules and individual service plans.
Monitors and serves meals, coordinates food and other supplies, and supervises clean up after meals. Monitors and distributes linen and clothing supplies for guests.
Attends required meetings and training sessions.
Provides phone coverage, as necessary.
Performs various administrative tasks such as maintaining accurate records, recording log notes and data entry.
Working to help BPHC become an antiracist organization by meeting or exceeding the standards set by the BPHC Anti-Racism Policy.
Performs other duties as required.