Outreach Specialist (HOPE)

Job Description

Job Description

JOB SUMMARY : 

The Outreach Specialist will join the Pasadena HOPE Team, 5 days per week, to provide outreach, engagement and linkage to services. The Outreach Specialist will outreach individuals experiencing homelessness on the streets of Pasadena who may often be in crisis and experiencing symptoms of mental health and/or substance use disorders. The Outreach Specialist will be trained in Pro-ACT, assist with de-escalation and promote best possible outcomes, acknowledging the individuals communication style and right to self-determination. This program will incorporate the principles of harm reduction, motivational interviewing, and trauma-informed care. All services provided are to be culturally responsive and person centered.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS INCLUDE , but are not limited to the following : 

• Conducts outreach activities to engage chronically homeless individuals. 
• Conducts standardized screening VI-SPDAT
• Consults with HOPE team and DMH (Department of Mental Health) to assess any behaviors that may warrant an LPS assessment or hold.
• Provide follow-up support, linkage, referrals, and crisis intervention to all individuals contracted through the HOPE team until they are connected to housing navigation and case management through CES.
• Assist individuals with referrals to supportive services including, but not limited to, mental health, health, substance abuse, employment, etc. 
• Assists individuals with accessing community resources related to bridge housing.
• Interventions may include filling medications, transportation to appointments, reconnecting with family, and more.
• Electronically document services and complete data entry into HMIS database.
• Attends case conferencing meetings to coordinate services with other providers. 
• Other duties as assigned. 

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Working in outdoor weather and driving conditions. Occasionally working indoors in temperature controlled environment. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
• Stand and sit for long periods of time; move and walk to various locations; climb stairs, stoop, kneel, reach, pull, push, bend, twist, and occasionally lift and or move objects. Use hands to finger, handle or feel.
• See, hear and speak clearly in order to give and receive information and instructions.
• Ability to interact with other employees, clients, customers and members of the public.
• Ability to work effectively under time constraints, prioritize work, multi-task, and adapt to changing work demands.
• Gather, analyze, synthesize, and classify information. Transcribe, enter, and post data.
• Ability to respond effectively to sensitive inquiries or complaints.
• Requires use of a computer keyboard.
• Travel to off-site meetings.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES :

• Knowledge of transitional and permanent housing resources throughout Los Angeles County.
• Knowledge of housing issues in the City of Pasadena preferred.
• Knowledge of HUD guidelines and experience working with subsidized housing programs such as Section 8, Shelter Plus Care and others. 
• Current in knowledge of social work practices and principles related to best practice standards.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Proficient in use of laptop computer and Microsoft Windows and Office software programs (Word, Access, Excel, PowerPoint, G-Mail). 
• Ability to accurately enter client data and notes in HMIS Homeless Management Information System. 
• Proficient with office communication equipment and machines (telephone, copier, calculator, fax machine, personal computer, laptop, computer printer and scanner).
• Possess valid California driver's license and have access to properly registered vehicle.

EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE:

• Master’s degree in social work or related field preferred.
• Related professional certification, i.e. CADAC, LVN, or LPT strongly desired.
• A minimum of two years of relevant experience required.
• Experience assisting low and very-low income individuals access affordable housing required.
• Experience working with homeless individuals within the City of Pasadena preferred.
• Bilingual- English/Spanish preferred.

Union Station Homeless Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer