Case Manager (Veteran Services)

Job Description

Job Description

Veterans Multi-Service Center is a dedicated non-profit human services agency committed to empowering individuals and families experiencing homelessness to achieve stable housing and improved quality of life. We operate various housing and supportive service programs, including Permanent Supportive Housing, designed to address the complex needs of our community's most vulnerable populations. Our approach is rooted in compassion, respect, and the belief in every individual's potential for self-sufficiency.

Position Summary

The Case Manager plays a vital role in implementing a Housing First philosophy to support chronically homeless individuals and families in maintaining stable housing. This position is responsible for providing comprehensive, client-centered, and voluntary supportive services to participants of our HUD-funded PSH program. The Case Manager will work collaboratively with participants to identify their strengths, set personalized goals, and connect them with essential resources to promote long-term housing stability, well-being, and community integration.

Key Responsibilities

1. Client Engagement & Assessment (Housing First Focus):

• Conduct initial and ongoing comprehensive assessments of participants' needs, including housing history, mental health, substance use, physical health, employment, and social support, utilizing a trauma-informed and harm reduction approach.
• Build and maintain trusting, respectful relationships with participants, emphasizing client choice and self-determination in all aspects of service delivery.
• Facilitate rapid entry into permanent housing, minimizing barriers and addressing immediate housing needs.
• Develop individualized, strengths-based service plans collaboratively with participants, setting measurable goals related to housing stability, health, income, and community integration.

2. Housing Stability & Support:

• Provide intensive case management services to help participants retain their housing, addressing challenges such as lease compliance, landlord-tenant relations, and household management.
• Conduct regular home visits and community-based outreach to provide support, monitor housing stability, and assess evolving needs.
• Assist participants with understanding and adhering to lease agreements, budgeting for rent and utilities, and developing independent living skills.
• Intervene proactively in housing crises (e.g., eviction prevention, lease violations) to prevent a return to homelessness.

3. Resource Linkage & Advocacy:

• Connect participants to a wide range of community resources and mainstream benefits, including:
  • Mental health and substance use treatment services.
  • Healthcare providers (medical, dental, vision).
  • Employment and educational opportunities.
  • Public benefits (e.g., SNAP, Medicaid, SSI/SSDI).
  • Legal aid, transportation, and childcare services.
  • Social and recreational activities to promote community integration.
• Act as a strong advocate for participants, navigating complex systems and collaborating with external agencies to ensure access to necessary services and overcome systemic barriers.
• Facilitate warm hand-offs and ongoing communication with partner agencies to ensure seamless service coordination.

4. Documentation & Compliance:

• Maintain accurate, thorough, and timely client records, including assessments, service plans, progress notes, and outcomes, in compliance with HUD regulations, agency policies, and confidentiality standards.
• Ensure all necessary documentation for participant eligibility and ongoing program compliance is collected and maintained.
• Input and update participant data in the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) accurately and promptly, adhering to all data quality standards.
• Prepare and submit required reports to program management and funders as directed.

5. Collaboration & Professional Development:

• Participate actively in team meetings, case conferences, and supervision to discuss client progress, challenges, and best practices.
• Collaborate effectively with internal VMC programs and external community partners to ensure coordinated care and comprehensive support for participants.
• Engage in continuous professional development, staying informed about best practices in PSH, Housing First, trauma-informed care, harm reduction, and relevant regulations.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, or a related field required.
• Experience: Minimum of 3 years of experience in case management, social services, or a related field, with a strong preference for experience working with individuals experiencing chronic homelessness, mental illness, substance use disorders, or other complex needs. Experience with HUD-funded programs (e.g., PSH, SSVF, CoC) highly desirable.
• Knowledge:
  • Deep understanding and commitment to the Housing First model and client-centered service delivery.
  • Knowledge of resources and services available for homeless and vulnerable populations.
  • Familiarity with trauma-informed care and harm reduction principles.
  • Understanding of landlord-tenant laws and housing regulations.
• Skills:
  • Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written) to build rapport with diverse individuals and collaborate with external partners.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail for accurate record-keeping and compliance.
  • Ability to work independently, manage a caseload effectively, and prioritize tasks in a dynamic environment.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and experience with Homeless Management Information Systems (HMIS) or similar client management databases.
  • Problem-solving and crisis intervention skills.
• Attributes: Empathy, patience, resilience, cultural competence, and a genuine passion for serving vulnerable populations.
• Other: Valid driver's license and reliable transportation required for community-based work.

VMC is committed to fostering a workplace culture where diverse voices are respected and valued, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all employees. We utilize data-driven strategies to demonstrate how our workforce consistently prioritizes and delivers quality client service from program entry through to exit, aligning directly with our mission to serve veterans and their families.

 

Monday- Friday 8:30am-4:30pm - No weekends