Outreach Specialist

POSITION SUMMARY:The Outreach Specialist is responsible for actively seeking out and engaging individuals living with HIV/AIDS who need housing assistance. This role involves building relationships with community partners, developing, and implementing outreach/education strategies, and providing direct assistance to clients in accessing the Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) program.ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:Facilitate individual and group counseling/educational and outreach sessions with people living with HIV/AIDS.Educate participants and the community about alcohol and substance use disorder, as well as other factors observed to be correlated with HIV/AIDS transmission.Will conduct and outreach to various community-based organizations and agencies that work with people living with HIV/AIDS or at high-risk.Take lead on and attend community outreach events; coordinate HOPWA related event participation, including, but not limited to establishing registration, set-up/tear-down, times/dates and other event details.Coordinate learning opportunities for clients by engaging external resources and learning opportunities on their behalf.Educate the community about the HOPWA program and its services.Screen potential clients for eligibility to participate in the HOPWA program; Provide information about the program and its benefits.Assist clients in completing the application process; help them to establish referral and/or medical services with their preferred medical service provider.Connect clients with case managers for ongoing support.Assist in the development and implementation of new outreach initiatives; Collaborate effectively with program staff to improve outreach strategies.Must embrace and embody the mission, vision, guiding principles, clinical vision, and goals of WestCare Foundation, andOther relevant duties as assigned.ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS:To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the duties and responsibilities satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.Minimum of 2 years of experience in outreach or social services.Knowledge of HIV/AIDS and related issues.Strong interpersonal and communication skills; bilingual preferred.Ability to work independently and as part of a team.Experience working with diverse populations.Ability to respond as needed to crisis situations in an efficient manner.Ability to work well in a team environment.Adherence to the highest standard of ethical conduct, especially to standards governing confidentiality.Professional appearance and demeanor.Must be sensitive to populations served.Must be able to obtain and maintain a successful background check.Valid driver’s license and ability to obtain and maintain WestCare’s vehicle insurance is required.During your tenure with WestCare there may be new requirements, including, but not limited to vaccinations that are issued by local, State, Federal, and/or Funders that WestCare may have to comply with. Should this occur Human Resources or appropriate personnel will inform you.EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:High School Diploma or equivalent is required.Bachelor’s Degree in Community Health, Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, Rehabilitation, or related field is preferred.Minimum one (1) year experience working in one or more of the following areas: substance abuse prevention, treatment, health promotion/education, community organizing, or working with people experiencing homelessness and their families.WORKING CONDITIONS:Work is primarily performed in the community.Some travel is required; and some outdoor activities may be required.Some driving is required. #J-18808-Ljbffr WESTCARE CALIFORNIA INC