Resident Advocate-Alura (89350)

HomeFirst•San Jose, CA

9d•Onsite

About The Position

The Motel Program will provide interim shelter at five underutilized motels and hotels across the city of San Jose. The Alura Motel Program (AMP) is intended to provide Emergency Interim Housing opportunities and is a referral-based only program with no drop-in services provided to the public. The AMP will support program participants by providing services to include case management, housing problem-solving, meals and other wraparound supportive services. These services are informed by a harm reduction philosophy with an emphasis on educating participants on how to avoid risky behaviors and engage in safer practices, including connection to evidence-based treatment options. All sites may serve single adults and/or families. The Resident Advocate is responsible for the overall day-to-day operation on site and responds to program participants needs on an as needed basis. They facilitate the flow of on-site amenities like access to clinical services, workshops, laundry supplies and food services ensuring each participant essential needs are met. They also ensure participant, staff and guest safety through regular check-ins and monitoring of the site grounds and sleeping units.

Requirements

AA degree (or equivalent of 2 years of higher education) or two years of field experience in social services
Sensitivity to the needs of unhoused individuals
Experience working with unhoused population
Ability to regularly lift up to 30 lbs.
Sensitivity to the needs of unhoused individuals and families
Desire to continually develop skills and increase knowledge

Responsibilities

Responsible for the care, safety and supervision of program participants and guest
Implement and enforce AHP guidelines and site rules
Welcome all agency guests to the facility, including program participants, volunteers, staff, and community members
Check guests into and out of the facility using the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS)
Document all notes of services provided into HMIS within 3 business days
Complete intake of potential participants including thorough and accurate VI-SPDAT assessments
Work with participants to execute their personalized housing plan
Provide direct guest support with developing, updating, and reassessing housing plans
Make timely and appropriate decisions in emergency situations, including awareness of the need for safety of all participants involved, mandated reporting, and contacting appropriate staff/responding agencies
Promote and lead weekly workshops for participants on site to include topics such as financial literacy, tenant rights and mediation, resume building, job search and credit repair, etc.
Respond to guest crises using de-escalation and Mental Health First Aid techniques as applicable
Adhere to HomeFirst’s service delivery practices, including Trauma Informed Care, client- centered practice, and Crisis Prevention Intervention model
Complete and submit Incident Reports, Behavioral Contracts, and Gross Violations as needed
Provide information, referrals, housing resources, and program support to program participants
Distribute clothing, linens, toiletries, and any other items supplied by the program
Restock program supplies and submit supply order request in a timely manner
Inspect cabins and complete inspection sheets on site
Support with participants treatment of property prior to move-in
Provide general site clean-up, reporting any maintenance or janitorial needs to the Shift Manager or Program Coordinator in a timely manner
Conduct room, facility, and perimeter checks
Assist with set-up and break-down for any special events or activities
Complete and file all paperwork in a timely manner
Maintain professional conduct, attitude and appearance
Communicate to and delegate tasks to next shift
Maintain confidentiality regarding clients, personnel, and other internal agency affairs
Conduct business according with employee handbook, exercising judgement and serving the best interests of the agency and community
Maintain compliance with agency/EIH site policies and procedures
Provide socialization skills- empathetic listening, problem solving, information and referral, mediation, crisis intervention
Committed to treat each participant with respect and dignity
Demonstrated conflict resolution skills
Represent HomeFirst and the program appropriately to volunteers, donors, outside agencies and the public
Assist with office-related tasks as needed
Attend all mandatory meetings, workshops, and trainings
Perform other general duties as assigned
The Resident Advocate is relentless in their commitment to ending homelessness via the principles of Housing First and Harm Reduction. They demonstrate this commitment through thoughtful, strategic program design and a scientific approach to performance improvement. Their participation in the continuous testing, analysis, and refinement of programs reflects their personal pursuit of excellence in all that they do.