Support Specialist - Turning Point (Sunday - Thursday. 3:00pm - 11:30pm)

The People Concern•Santa Monica, CA

7d•Onsite

About The Position

The Support Specialist at Turning Point’s shelter provides supportive and restorative care to individuals experiencing homelessness, mental illness, and substance addiction. The role is a first point of contact for immediate client needs, helps maintain a welcoming, safe, and well-kept facility, and supports clients’ progress toward stability. The Support Specialist engages with clients, conducts facility walk-throughs, facilitates activities, and intervenes during crises. The position also requires accurate documentation and collaboration with a team to provide comprehensive care. This is a full-time, non-exempt, non-management position reporting to the Program Manager. The schedule is Sunday through Thursday, 3:00 PM to 11:30 PM, at Turning Point, 1447 16th Street, Santa Monica, California 90404.

Requirements

High school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
At least one year of experience in related work.
Effective customer service skills and ability to handle difficult situations.
Ability to work independently and think critically.
Ability to act professionally regardless of circumstances.
Commitment to improving the community through empowerment and dignity.
Familiarity with non-violent crisis intervention.
Familiarity with issues faced by the population served.
Ability to self-motivate and appropriately organize and motivate others.
Computer literacy and ability to use a computerized database system for information management.
Ability to work as a team member.
Ability to obtain and maintain Food Handlers, CPR, and First Aid certifications.
Ability to take initiative toward continued professional development.

Responsibilities

Serve as the first point of contact for immediate client needs and requests, such as phone use, linens, and water.
Monitor communal areas, patios, bathrooms, dorms, and showers; uphold program guidelines; and help keep the facility safe and maintained, including general cleaning.
Remain visible on the floor, actively engage with clients, and welcome them.
Conduct regular, thorough walk-throughs of the facility.
Create a supportive environment that helps clients progress toward stability.
Attend relevant staff meetings, trainings, and retreats as scheduled.
Oversee maintenance of client cubicle and bed areas in a trauma-informed manner.
Facilitate client engagement activities, such as groups or other activities.
Complete incident reports, update shift logs, document in HMIS as needed, and email relevant documents and updates before the end of each shift.
Build effective, trusting relationships with clients using a client-centered approach that includes motivational interviewing, harm reduction, and trauma-informed care.
Intervene in crises and de-escalate situations with client and staff safety in mind, using non-violent communication skills.
Work collaboratively to provide comprehensive, integrated care to individuals experiencing homelessness, mental illness, and substance addiction.
Communicate effectively and promptly with management, peers, and clients.
Maintain client confidentiality and follow agency, state, and HIPAA laws.
Perform other duties as assigned.