Outreach Specialist – PATH Grant Funded

Valley Healthcare System Inc • Columbus, GA

2d

About The Position

Under the direction and guidance of the Outreach Team Leader, this position is responsible for assisting clients experiencing severe persistent mental illness (SPMI) to move from homelessness into permanent housing. The Outreach Specialist will identify clients and assist them with accessing permanent housing, move in activities, and will provide stabilization services (case management) to all clients though the extent of assistance will vary according to the client’s needs.

Requirements

• Minimum two years’ experience in human services and/or case management.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; organizational, conflict resolution and computer literacy.
• Proficient in the latest Microsoft Office Environment (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and HMIS (preferred).
• Prior experience and understanding of causes of homelessness; experience working with landlords, local rental markets and/or housing sales.
• Knowledge of Housing First, fair housing practices, and VAWA.
• Cooperative, friendly, and helpful attitude with clients and co-workers. Ability to work closely with other employees to ensure a positive, constructive environment within the program or department, and throughout the agency.
• Ability to thrive in a flexible, fast-paced and growth-oriented environment, while maintaining a sense of humor and a positive, solution-oriented approach.
• Ability to complete basic math as well as review and interpret reports and graphs.
• Understanding of and commitment to the mission, vision, and goals of Valley Healthcare System, Inc.
• Staff members must provide their own transportation and proof of a valid driver’s license and current automobile insurance.

Responsibilities

• Implementing best practices in client-centered outreach and case management through trauma-informed and harm-reduction protocols.
• Outreach to individuals experiencing both homelessness and SPMI/substance abuse that are not already being served or are underserved by existing community service delivery systems.
• Encouraging clients to accept placement and opportunities to stabilize their lives.
• Collaborating with other homeless services providers and community resources to facilitate access to the Continuum of Care services including basic needs (including food, clothing, shelter, hygiene, and laundry), housing assistance, substance abuse education and treatment, legal assistance and health information.
• Assisting with assessment of potential program participants as referred by Coordinated Entry System to the Homelessness Prevention Rapid Rehousing and Permanent Supportive Housing programs, emphasizing the engagement of homeless individuals experiencing SPMI/substance abuse
• Recruit private landlords to participate in renting to clients.
• Collaborate with local housing authorities, VA supportive housing programs, and other homeless service providers to maximize opportunities for all clients.
• Assist clients to develop and/or complete an Individualized Service Plan including:
• Realistic goals with concrete steps which will ensure housing stability which address employment/income, money management strategies and any other identified service needs.
• Providing a list of safe, affordable housing resources to clients for housing search
• Determining needs around utility deposits, furniture moving assistance, etc.
• Coordination of move in activities to secure needed household items.
• Provide advocacy and negotiation with landlords/rental managers to facilitate tenant acceptance.
• Provide and/or coordinate activities to ensure that clients understand their rights and responsibilities as tenants.
• Teach clients steps and communication tools to advocate for themselves in seeking and maintaining housing (including advocating for eligible benefits)
• Refer client to other community resources to achieve goals - and follow up to ensure referrals were completed.
• Track and document client progress
• Use Case Coordination meetings to share client progress and get support in working with high barrier clients.
• Educate clients about the housing program, your role and their role.
• Participating in meetings related to job and outreach/clients.
• Evaluation: The evaluation of work performance, including specific duties, responsibilities, demeanor, and work ethics, will be ongoing and implemented by the Outreach Team Lead.

Benefits

• 100% Employer-Paid Medical Coverage and Long-term Disability Coverage
• No-cost Dental and Vision Services at our Clinics – Additional Dental, Vision, and Short-term Disability Coverage is available for purchase at a reduce cost.
• 403(b) retirement plan
• Competitive salary
• Generous paid time off and holidays

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees