Shelter Diversion Specialist
About The Position
New Reach is undergoing an exciting transformation in order to bring the organization to its next level of success. Working to provide, shelter, housing, stabilization and support for children, families and individuals experiencing homelessness across CT since 1990, New Reach inspires independence for those affected by homelessness and poverty. Using the most innovative and progressive methods through a continuum of housing and support, New Reach has grown to be one of the most effective nonprofits of its kind in the United States. At New Reach, you will be part of a compassionate and innovative team that uses the most progressive approaches to inspire independence. You’ll play a key role in a transformative movement to end homelessness and food insecurity through prevention, support, and housing solutions that create long-term stability for those we serve. Join us and be part of a team that is charting a new path toward a world with fewer evictions, more stability, and lasting independence for all.
Requirements
- Bilingual English and Spanish preferred.
- Associate's degree plus 3 years human services experience; bachelor's degree preferred.
- Desire to promote equal access and opportunity for families experiencing homelessness.
- Experience in housing, housing law, and other related areas preferred.
- Highly motivated, creative with excellent interpersonal skills and crisis intervention abilities.
- Strong advocacy, documentation, and computer skills required.
- Ability to work with a team and independently with initiative.
- Access to reliable transportation.
Responsibilities
- Conduct scheduled and walk-in assessments through multiple service methods, including in-person, telephone, and virtual appointments, as well as community-based assessments conducted in partnership with local organizations.
- Perform assessments to homeless and unstably housed populations within Greater New Haven with the goal of diverting people from having to enter shelter, including youth, individuals and families.
- Provide services at agency offices, partner locations, and other community-based settings as required.
- Provide referrals and support to clients being diverted from shelter to help stabilize their households.
- Confirm eligibility criteria for anyone entering the shelter system, provide client/ landlord mediation and/or family mediation interventions and diversion techniques as appropriate.
- Participate in daily community phone calls to advocate for prioritization.
- Creatively access, utilize, and monitor use of flexible funds for clients when available.
- Assist those receiving financial diversion with the leasing process and perform housing inspections to ensure compliance with Housing Habitability Standards and Lead Visual Assessments.
- Ensure all documentation is entered into Homeless Management Information System Database (HMIS) and any other data database within 24-48 hours of incident/contact.
- Follow all mandated reporting requirements per Department of Children and Families when applicable.
- Develop a strong profile within the homeless services community to strengthen diversion referrals and increase accessibility for collaboration with partnering agencies.
- Attend required trainings programs and community meetings, and regularly scheduled supervision, staff and/or other meetings as assigned.
- Other duties as assigned to ensure successful programmatic operations.
Benefits
- Medical, vision, and dental insurance
- 401(k) Retirement plan with employer match
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Paid Sick Time
- 12 Paid Holidays
- 1 Floating Holiday
- Life Insurance
- Long-Term Disability
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
Associate degree
