Case Manager - Asylum Shelter

Job Title: Asylum Shelter Case Manager

Reporting to: Asylum Shelter Case Manager Supervisor

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Summary:

We are looking for a compassionate and dedicated Asylum Shelter Case Manager to join our team, providing essential support to individuals seeking asylum. In this role, you will offer comprehensive, person-centered, and strengths-based services to a caseload of approximately 20-25 asylum-seeking clients. Your primary objective is to empower these individuals, helping them navigate the complexities of the asylum process while fostering a sense of belonging within the community. Collaboration with colleagues is crucial to meet the unique needs of your caseload and achieve NAICA's core purpose, values, and vision. Asylum shelters are exempt from DHS housing placement performance measures.

Responsibilities:

The Asylum Seeker Case Manager's role encompasses, but is not limited to:

• Conducting initial intake assessments with a focus on addressing critical needs specific to asylum seekers.
• Utilizing assessment tools, such as CARES, tailored to identify support service requirements unique to the asylum-seeking population, and making immediate referrals.
• Providing orientation to clients about the shelter program, the asylum process, and the potential consequences.
• Developing Individualized Living Plans (ILPs) in close collaboration with other Social Service providers, ensuring tailored support services that align with the asylum journey.
• Assisting clients in understanding and accessing the asylum process and related resources.
• Completing psycho-social assessments within the first 30 days of intake, with sensitivity to the asylum-seeking experience.
• Monitoring and tracking client progress, addressing the specific challenges faced by asylum seekers.
• Empowering clients to actively participate in their own asylum planning and goal setting.
• Conducting regular meetings with clients (weekly/bi-weekly or as needed) to address their unique circumstances and emotional needs.
• Collaborating with legal and advocacy organizations to ensure clients receive necessary support during their asylum proceedings.
• Referring clients to relevant organizations specializing in asylum-related legal assistance.
• Connecting clients with culturally sensitive resources to aid in their adjustment and integration into the community.
• Maintaining thorough client files, documenting conversations, warnings, and progress reports while preserving the utmost confidentiality.
• Reporting critical incidents immediately to the Site Director/Director of Social Services.
• Establishing strong partnerships with asylum-focused community organizations to facilitate referrals and support services.
• Escorting clients to asylum-related appointments and hearings, providing emotional support throughout the process.
• Facilitating suitable housing placements and connecting clients with culturally competent housing resources.
• Ensuring that case notes are completed within 24 hours after client meetings.
• Offering support as a substitute for other staff when needed.
• Performing general clerical duties.

Professional & Personal Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, sociology, or a related field.
• Associate degree in human services or a related field with a minimum of 2 years of direct social service experience.
• High School Diploma/General Equivalent Diploma with a minimum of 4 years of direct social service experience.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills, with the ability to balance compassion and firmness while respecting the unique experiences of asylum seekers.
• Proficiency in navigating asylum-specific community resources and understanding the complexities of the asylum process.
• Strong problem-solving abilities, decision-making skills, conflict resolution expertise, and active listening.
• Capacity to remain composed in crisis situations.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with diverse groups.
• Proven capability to manage multiple tasks efficiently under pressure.
• Outstanding organizational skills, attention to detail, and efficiency.
• Possessing maturity, integrity, and sound judgment.
• Bilingual (Spanish, French, Creole, or other languages) preferred.

Physical Demands and Working Environment:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift to 5 pounds at times.
• Must be able to access and navigate each department at the organization’s facilities.
• Ability to climb stairs.