Case Manager

The Case Manager will be responsible for working directly with participants to meet their daily needs in a safe and secure environment. The program will provide Interim Housing Services (IHS) stabilization for eligible participants until permanent housing placement is secured. The Case Manager provides services including but not limited to, outreach and engagement, case management assessment and service planning, assistance with mainstream entitlement application and connection to employment services as necessary, housing location, addressing of all service needs to stabilize clients in housing and promoting recovery and community integration. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Case Management & Service Delivery: Provide onsite case management services within program scope, including but not limited to: independent living skills, housing stabilization, money management, community integration, employment linkage, benefits establishment, and linkage to community providers for substance use services, primary care, and mental health care, to support participants in achieving individualized goals. Conduct a minimum of two face-to-face case management contacts per participant per month, with frequency adjusted based on participant needs and requirements outlined by the Los Angeles County Homeless Services and Housing program. Provide strengths-based case management and service coordination services designed to assist clients in obtaining and maintaining stable employment and housing. Develop individualized care plans in collaboration with the participant, addressing both short-term and long-term goals, utilizing the 5x5 Model approach. Update individualized care plans at a minimum of every 90 days, including but not limited to the development of new goals, review of progress toward stated goals, and any modifications to goals or action steps, with clearly defined target dates and outcomes. Provide services focused on enhancing participants' ability to independently problem-solve, utilize effective coping skills, and manage and self-coordinate their care. Utilize evidence-based and trauma-informed practices in service delivery, including case management, motivational interviewing, harm reduction, and Housing First principles. Initiate referrals and service linkages; monitor referral progress and outcomes through direct communication with service providers; and support participants in accessing and maintaining eligible services. Support participants in accessing and effectively using transportation resources, including public transit and related assistance programs, to promote independence and community integration. Housing Access: Identify legal issues that may present barriers to accessing or maintaining permanent housing and facilitate referrals to appropriate legal aid and community-based legal resources. Identify and support access to appropriate permanent housing options for participants, including subsidized housing, Section 8, Shelter Plus Care, VASH, Rapid Re-Housing, and other non-traditional housing opportunities. Assist participants with housing applications, including completion of the Universal Housing Application (UHA) through the HSH portal; complete supportive and subsidized housing paperwork; survey the rental market for affordable housing options; and advocate with prospective landlords as appropriate. Support participants through the move-in process, providing practical assistance and emotional support as appropriate. Documentation & Compliance: Maintain documentation standards as set forth by the program contract and First Day policies, including maintaining compliance with HIPAA policies and practices. Complete progress notes for all face-to-face, telephone, and collateral contacts within 72 hours, in accordance with program and documentation standards. Complete intake, assessments and service plans in coordination with client and within the documentation standards set forth by the LA County Homeless Services and Housing contract and First Day. Maintain complete, accurate, and timely participant records in client charts and required internal and external data management systems, including CHAMP, in accordance with program and reporting requirements. Collaboration & Community Engagement: Collaborate with internal teams and external partner agencies to coordinate services that support participants' housing, stabilization, and self-sufficiency goals. Establish and maintain positive, productive working relationships with mental health programs, shelter programs, medical care providers, law enforcement, local officials, and other service providers supporting individuals experiencing homelessness. Participate in required team meetings, case conferences, trainings, and community meetings, including internal case conferencing and coordination with Los Angeles County homeless services and housing programs. Promptly and accurately communicate participant-related issues, concerns, and critical incidents to the Program Manager in accordance with program protocols. Safety & Policy Compliance: Conduct cubicle and personal searches and seizures as required, in strict accordance with First Day policies and procedures, while maintaining safety, professionalism, and respect for participant rights. EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/TRAINING Required: A bachelor's degree in social work, human services, public administration, or a related field Minimum two years experience in working with homeless populations, particularly those with medical or behavioral health challenges. Familiarity with the County's housing services, including crisis/bridge housing and health/mental health services. Strong interpersonal and conflict-resolution skills, with the ability to engage with participants in a non-judgmental, supportive manner. Ability to work collaboratively with multiple stakeholders, including County officials, shelter staff, and participants. Preferred: Written and oral proficiency in Spanish highly preferred. CPR/First Aid Training Certification and HMIS Training Certification (training provided). Physical Demands & Work Environment The physical demands for this position include prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, climbing stairs, and lifting up to 20 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions. #J-18808-Ljbffr