Outreach Specialist-Citywide (81454)

HomeFirst•San Jose, CA

1d•$31 - $31

About The Position

Established in 1980, HomeFirst™ is a nonprofit organization passionately working to end homelessness. We serve the Bay Area community through low-barrier programming and systems leadership – meeting each person where they are by offering support and resources that address immediate and long-term housing needs. With 45 years of experience, we view housing as a fundamental human right and understand that solving homelessness requires a collaborative effort. HomeFirst Citywide Outreach is designed to connect street and encampment homeless individuals to shelter, services, and housing. The target populations for this program are vulnerable, chronically homeless individuals living on the streets or in encampments throughout San Jose. Program staff will provide a consistent presence on the roads and other outdoor locations throughout San Jose to build rapport and trust with unsheltered homeless residents. The program aims to connect clients to services resulting in permanent housing.

Requirements

Knowledge of highly-utilized locations in San Jose where the homeless congregate and camp
Ability to walk long distances and on rough terrain (such as trails to creek-side encampments and high-traffic areas)
Ability to lift and carry outreach supplies (usually in a backpack, up to 30 lbs.)
Understanding of and sensitivity to the needs of the homeless
Commitment to increasing the housing stability and self-sufficiency of the homeless
Strong verbal and written skills; knowledge of multiple languages is desirable
Good problem-solving skills and the ability to prioritize multiple tasks
Ability to work with people of diverse social backgrounds and professional rank
Demonstrated effective communication skills
Knowledge and understanding of community resources and human services
Initiative, flexibility, and the capacity to respond effectively in all situations
Good collaboration skills and the ability to work independently with limited supervision
Ability to work as part of a diverse team
Basic computer skills, including knowledge of MS Office applications and the internet
Clean driving record
Valid CA driver's license and legally required insurance; reliable transportation
High school diploma or GED
Having personal or professional experiences with homelessness

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or related field is a plus

Responsibilities

Provide street and encampment-based outreach to the homeless in San Jose.
Provide information and referrals to community services, such as employment counseling, health care, mental health services, etc.
Transport clients, in an agency vehicle, to the BRC shelter or other appropriate destinations. Provide UPLIFT requests for those who qualify.
Conduct VI-SPDATS assessments to determine client vulnerability, self-sufficiency, and appropriate housing or service program referral and placement.
Complete all appropriate data collection, Salesforce, HMIS data entry, paperwork, and tracking of activities within two business days.
Respond to the Homeless Helpline calls/emails for assistance within one business day.
Assist clients with accessing public benefits and assistance as appropriate.
Connect or refer clients to services provided at the BRC shelter service center.
Make timely and accurate decisions in emergencies or crises with particular awareness of the need for the safety of all clients, staff, or volunteers involved.
Provide street-based case management to the unhoused population.
To provide access to emergency shelter, meals, showers, and laundry services to unsheltered homeless individuals.
Staff the Hotline weekly and monitor/update the Outreach bed list.
Provide excellent customer service when staffing HomeFirst Homeless Helpline.
Weekend and after-hours support are required when requested by the City.
Utilize supervision appropriately, maintaining open lines of communication and providing updates on activities regularly.
Know and follow agency and program policies and procedures.
Properly report any suspected cases of abuse.
Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

HomeFirst provides comprehensive benefits, including 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage and additional wellness options like chiropractic care, mental health support, pet insurance, and an Employee Assistance Program.
We offer a 401(k)-retirement plan with generous matching, life and disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, commuter benefits, and workers’ compensation.
Employees enjoy 12 holidays, sick leave, and PTO starting at 15 days annually, increasing with tenure, plus 4 hours of civic engagement leave annually to volunteer.

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