Outreach Specialist

Matrix Human Services•Ferndale, MI

9d•$52,000 - $64,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Matrix Human Services is dedicated to Educating Children, Supporting Families, and Rebuilding Neighborhoods in Detroit. The High Impact Outreach Program aims to connect individuals living with HIV who are not currently in care back into the continuum of care. This role utilizes a low-barrier model to build relationships with individuals who may not be ready or willing to engage in services. As part of a mobile team, the Peer Specialist will employ motivational strategies to support individuals in taking steps towards accessing HIV care services. The role involves conducting mobile, street, and venue-based outreach in various community settings, identifying optimal locations and times for outreach based on community knowledge. The Specialist will also engage with individuals seeking care in emergency departments or those hospitalized due to non-adherence to antiretroviral therapies, responding to medical provider requests and following up post-discharge. Immediate needs such as food and hygiene kits will be addressed, and strong relationships with internal and external partners will be established and maintained to facilitate connections to HIV care and support services.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required.
Experience working with individuals living with HIV and/or experience as a recipient of HIV prevention/care services.
Good verbal and written skills.
Understanding of the functions of patient advocacy and knowledge of rules and regulations concerning HIPAA and client confidentiality.
Well-organized and demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks and adapt to changing priorities.
Computer literate, proficient in Microsoft Outlook, able to learn and effectively utilize client software database.

Nice To Haves

Community Health Worker certification preferred. If not certified, training must be completed within twelve months of hire.

Responsibilities

Conduct mobile, street, and venue-based outreach in neighborhoods, parks, drug houses, bath houses, and other venues where communities at high risk for HIV reside and gather.
Use knowledge of the community to identify locations and times for outreach.
Meet with individuals seeking care in emergency departments and those who have been hospitalized due to non-adherence to antiretroviral therapies.
Respond to requests from medical providers to meet with individuals and follow-up with them upon discharge.
Address immediate physiological and safety needs through distribution of food, hygiene kits, phones, etc.
Establish and maintain good working relationships with internal and external partners to ensure appropriate connections to HIV care and support services.
Maintain professional boundaries with clients.
Understand the functions of patient advocacy and knowledge of rules and regulations concerning HIPAA and client confidentiality.
Keep accurate documentation of outreach activities and referrals to HIV care services, ensuring all documentation is completed fully and within designated time frames.
Maintain awareness of community changes which could impact service delivery.
Conduct community outreach and network with community members and service providers, developing new venues and program partnerships.
Maintain professional conduct with colleagues and facilitate effective interaction in one-on-one situations and in meetings.
Participate in ongoing trainings to increase skill level.
Perform other duties as assigned.