SSVF Outreach Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Department: Veterans Housing Solutions

Reports to: Outreach Director

FLSA Status: Full-time, Non-Exempt

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Job Summary

The SSVF Outreach Specialist engages veterans and their families throughout San Diego County who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness. This position is responsible for conducting field-based outreach, community engagement, and educational activities to increase awareness of Veterans Village of San Diego (VVSD) programs and services. The Outreach Specialist develops and maintains relationships with community partners, veteran-serving organizations, healthcare providers, and social service agencies to ensure veterans are connected to appropriate resources and support services.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Conduct outreach to veterans and their families throughout San Diego County, including in locations where homeless veterans congregate.
• Promote awareness of VVSD programs and services through presentations, community events, resource fairs, and public education activities.
• Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with community organizations, government agencies, healthcare providers, and veteran-serving organizations.
• Work collaboratively with internal and external outreach teams to maximize service delivery and community impact.
• Attend community meetings, case conferencing meetings, coalitions, and trainings related to veterans, homelessness, housing, and supportive services.
• Assess the immediate and long-term needs of veterans and their families and provide referrals to appropriate resources.
• Connect participants with services including, but not limited to, housing, employment, benefits, healthcare, mental health services, substance use disorder treatment, financial assistance, and legal services.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of outreach activities, referrals, services provided, and participant interactions.
• Enter and update participant information in required databases and tracking systems in accordance with agency and program requirements.
• Meet established performance, outreach, documentation, and data entry goals.
• Maintain knowledge of available community resources, veteran benefits, and housing programs.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Requirements and Qualifications

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in social work, Human Services, Psychology, Public Health, or a related field preferred.
• Relevant experience working with veterans, individuals experiencing homelessness, or other vulnerable populations may substitute for education.
• Knowledge of homeless services, community resources, and barriers affecting individuals experiencing homelessness.
• Understanding of military culture, veteran services, and Veterans Administration programs preferred.
• Strong communication, public speaking, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound professional judgment.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations in a respectful and culturally responsive manner.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong organizational, time management, and documentation skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and data entry systems.
• Ability to work flexible schedules, including occasional evenings and weekends as required.
• Reliable transportation, valid California driver's license, and proof of insurance.
• Successful completion of required background screening and drug testing in accordance with agency policies.
• Ability to perform all essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience providing outreach, case management, or social services.
• Experience working within veteran-serving organizations.
• Knowledge of Housing First and trauma-informed care principles.
• Bilingual abilities are highly desirable.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, and reach throughout the workday.
• Ability to travel regularly throughout San Diego County.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to operate a computer, phone, and other standard office equipment.
• Ability to communicate effectively in person, by telephone, and electronically.
• Ability to work in both indoor and outdoor environments, including areas where homeless individuals may reside.
• Ability to work in a busy and occasionally noisy environment.