Outreach Specialist - Homeless Older Adult Program

Description

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF WORK

The Outreach Specialist is responsible for identifying and engaging older adults who are currently or were formerly unhoused and connecting them with trauma-informed, culturally appropriate, and age-appropriate services and supports that are tailored to the individual choice and need. Primarily works daytime hours Monday-Friday but may need to adjust schedule to accommodate evening or weekend meetings or events. The Outreach Specialist reports directly to the Homeless Older Adults Manager.

TYPICAL TASKS

· Facilitate person-centered, problem-solving conversations to help identify solutions in response to client’s immediate housing/stabilization crises

· Provide support, when possible, for older adult to access low-barrier crisis housing and services

· Increase the older adult’s knowledge of the homeless crisis response system 

· Complete strength-based housing barriers assessment and corresponding individualized service and housing plans

· Assist older adult with overcoming immediate barriers to obtaining housing, such as valid identification documents, addressing issues on criminal or financial histories, etc.

· Facilitate access to mainstream services by coordinating referrals to other providers

· Monitor and evaluate project participant progress

· Collect and input required data into the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) 

· Participate in local Continuum of Care planning efforts, forums, and elder coalition meetings

· Other tasks as assigned

Requirements

  KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES 

· Must have a passion for working with underserved populations and have a willingness to fulfill the Senior Services mission, core principles, and values 

· Skilled in active listening and interviewing, preferably Motivational Interviewing

· Excellent verbal and written communication skills, and must be able to follow written and oral instructions and procedures

· Knowledge of HIPAA and ethical standards

· Knowledge of Person-Centered practices

· Proficient in use of Microsoft Office and use of web-based software programs

· Excellent organizational and planning skills to efficiently manage time and meet deadlines

· Ability to be flexible and adapt to change

· Ability to work independently

· Ability to interact in a professional manner with customers, peers, colleagues, supervisors, and internal/external partners 

· Must be detail-oriented and able to multi-task productively 

· Must be a quick learner and a highly energetic team player

· Prefer familiarity with community resources available to those who are unhoused

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

· Requires a bachelor’s degree in social work or related human services field, or RN, with at least one year experience in community based services

· Must possess a valid driver’s license, auto insurance, good driving record, and acceptable criminal background check.