Client Advocate with Harm Reduction Experience (2 Years Experience Required)

Title: Client Advocate with Harm Reduction Training and Experience– Pride Center of Maryland (PCOM) (Non-Profit)

Hiring Range: $50,000 - $55,000

Location: Baltimore, Maryland

Agency Website: https://www.pridecentermd.org/

The Agency The Pride Center of Maryland (PCOM) envisions a society where diverse sexual and gender minorities (SGM) are affirmed without barriers to well-being, the ability to thrive, self-love, cultural affirmation, and social justice. As the only umbrella organization serving the SGM community in the state, PCOM plays a crucial role in providing comprehensive resources and support.

PCOM offers a broad spectrum of direct services, ranging from healthcare and counseling to educational programs and advocacy. These services are designed to address the various challenges faced by the SGM community, ensuring access to resources for leading healthy, fulfilling lives.

The center also hosts a wide range of events and activities that promote cultural affirmation and social justice. PCOM's annual Pride festival attracts up to 150,000 participants each year, celebrating diversity and raising awareness about SGM issues while promoting inclusivity and acceptance.

By fostering a supportive environment, PCOM empowers individuals to embrace their identities with pride. The center's initiatives aim to eliminate barriers that prevent SGM individuals from achieving their full potential. Through advocacy, education, and direct support, PCOM strives to create a society where everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, can thrive and be celebrated.

PCOM actively engages in policy advocacy to promote the rights and well-being of the SGM community. Collaborating with local, state, and national organizations, PCOM advocates for policies that protect and empower SGM individuals, combat discrimination, improving healthcare access, and ensuring equal rights for all.

Job Description The Client Advocate serves as the initial representative and point of contact for clients seeking services. The qualified candidate is required to have a dedication to working with PCOM’s populations of focus and making the client’s visit as pleasant as possible.

Duties And Responsibilities

• Committed to carrying out PCOM’s mission, vision, and philosophy.
• Adhere to PCOM’s core values, policies, and procedures.
• Understand the dynamics and needs of individuals dealing with a spectrum of issues, from sexual health and substance misuse to homelessness and domestic and dating violence.
• Enroll clients into the PCOM Plus membership program.
• Establish strong rapport with clients.
• Complete intake process with the client, including assessments and appropriate forms.
• Answer crisis calls, observing guidelines for confidentiality, security, and professionalism.
• Work in a manner that is organized, efficient, and detail oriented.
• Interview and assess client eligibility for needs and services.
• Develop appropriate safety plans with callers and walk-in clients, as appropriate.
• Accept, document, and acknowledge in-kind donations.
• Assist with special promotions and community education.
• Be involved in program advocacy and networking for social change.
• Publicize the program through posters, brochures, newspaper articles, and personal contacts.
• Handle multiple tasks simultaneously and have excellent organizational skills.
• Prepare monthly reports in accordance with agency policies and procedures.
• Maintain and update client information in appropriate databases.
  
  

Harm Reduction Duties

• Use the model of harm reduction, assess clients’ needs for services, including outreach, counseling, education, referral, etc., at program site and plan services accordingly
• Develop and support strategies to meet the needs of individuals in need of support, including individuals using drugs/alcohol, people living with HIV/AIDS, individuals involved in sex work/survival sex, individuals at risk for violence, etc.
• Attend and participate in Harm Reduction Committee meetings, as scheduled Contribute to agency-wide projects of the Harm Reduction Committee, to support the infusion of harm reduction throughout the agency Provide training and education on the harm reduction model, including sexual health and HIV prevention strategies, for staff and program participants
• Provide recovery-oriented support services and outreach to assigned program participants, as defined by program and contractual requirements
• Develop and assist in implementing person-centered service plans determined by goals of program participants, including reviewing service plans with program participants, identifying progress and revising plan as needed
• Maintain a resources list and provide referrals for treatment for psychiatric disabilities, substance use, and health problems, as directed by program participants
• Assist program participants with conflict resolution, as necessary
• Provide outreach to program participants who are not indicating their goals or who are not engaged, to offer services to them, and to incorporate outreach in their service plans
• Provide crisis intervention, as necessary
  
  

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in social work or related field and/or three years of experience in the social/human services field.
• Experience working with LGBTQ/SGL (same-gender-loving) individuals, families, couples, and allies facing sexual health concerns, homelessness, mental health issues, and/or substance misuse.
• At least two years of experience working within a harm-reduction model
• Thorough understanding of harm reduction.
• The ability to transfer knowledge and skills in areas such as, but not limited to: engagement, harm reduction, motivational interviewing, conflict mediation
• Working knowledge of the strengths-based, client-centered approach.
• Demonstrated cultural competence.
• Excellent interpersonal and conflict resolution skills.
• Excellent listening and problem-solving skills.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Knowledge of community resources.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Ability to be flexible, adapt, and adjust to rapid change within a fast-paced and growth-oriented environment.
• High confidence level in working independently.
• Possess and maintain a positive, solution-oriented approach.
  
  

Other Requirements

• Knowledge of MS Office software (e.g., Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Valid driver’s license.
• May require some weekend and evening hours.
  
  

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
• Paid time off (vacation, sick leave, and holidays)
• Professional development opportunities
• Flexible work schedule