Midnight Shelter Caseworker

Description

Scope:

The SHHS Shelter Specialist is responsible for the implementation and execution of housing and homeless-related services and activities for homeless persons.  Focusing on the Housing First Model, the Shelter Specialist will assist clients with locating supportive services and establish short term goals enabling them to move towards securing stable housing.   The Shelter Specialist is responsible for serving as the liaison between Wayne Metro and community stakeholders to ensure greater collaboration of efforts in serving homeless members of the community.

Essential Functions

• Work closely with Housing and Homeless Department staff and partnering agencies towards the goal of securing safe, affordable housing for individuals experiencing homelessness.
• Work with participants to create their person centered goals.
• Assist with obtaining supportive services that may include:  legal documents, mental health and substance abuse service referrals, and linkages to mainstream resources.
• Proficiently complete paperwork related to the provision of housing and homeless services as required by Wayne Metro and program funders.
•  Prepare and maintain client files as required by Wayne Metro and applicable funding sources. Remain abreast of changing guidelines in determining eligibility and record keeping.
• Provide transportation to agency clients as required.
• Provide direct service to clients including but not limited to: driving and accompanying clients to scheduled appointments, other specific client-centered tasks as assigned, entering data into agency databases and assisting clients with applications/surveys (paper and electronic).
• Provide staff support to the Out-Wayne Continuum of Care (CoC) through coordination of efforts including by not limited to Homelessness Awareness Week activities, common service procedures and tools, annual educational retreats, and Coalition development.
• Maintain accurate and current records in HMIS
• Ensure a safe and manageable environment for program participants. Monitor common areas, maintain visibility and continuously interact with program participants.
• Follow appropriate critical incident protocol and accompanying documentation.
• Perform other work-related duties as assigned.
• Maintain a positive attitude towards assigned work, program participants, staff and have a willingness to work with others.
• Perform work in a manner that upholds Wayne Metro’s policies and procedures.
• Other duties as assigned.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. This job operates in a professional office environment with a usually quiet noise level. This is largely a sedentary role and the employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, frequently use hands and to talk or hear.

Qualifications

Minimum Competencies:

• Bachelor's Degree preferred, or combination of experience and education working  in the human service field and with community partners, project management, logistics and working with individuals currently or formerly experiencing homelessness, mental health and/or substance abuse issues or some supervisory experience.
• Working knowledge of basic internet applications and programs including Google technology, Microsoft Office, Word and Excel, as well as the ability to learn and utilize programs for this position.
• Good interpersonal and professional skills including but not limited to communication, tact, teamwork, dependability and the ability to influence.
• Ability to provide compassionate services for persons experiencing housing instability in a way that respects the client's needs and experiences.
• Ability to handle and prevent crisis situations and maintain confidentiality.
• Work Independently and within a team setting with minimal supervision.
• Ability to maintain appropriate boundaries in service delivery.
• Strong orientation toward teamwork and ability to excel within a supportive and diverse team environment
• Basic First Aid and/or CPR certification preferred.
• Skilled at written and verbal communications.

• Working knowledge of basic internet applications and programs including Google technology and Microsoft Office Word and Excel. The ability to learn and utilize the necessary programs for this position.
• Deep commitment to ending homelessness and advancing racial equity, operating from a Housing First, low-barrier, and person-centered approach.

Travel Requirements:

• Ability to travel to various sites.

Licensing and Other Requirements:

• Valid identification and reliable transportation.

Work Hours: 

Work schedule Monday – Sunday, with specific hours that may include daytime, evening or overnights to be determined by department needs.

Other Duties:

Please note that this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job.  Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Wayne Metropolitan Community Action Agency is an Equal Opportunity Employer

EOE/M/F/D/V