Emergency Shelter Diversion Specialist

Description: South Suburban PADS is seeking compassionate and dedicated professionals committed to preventing and ending homelessness in the south suburbs of Chicago. The Emergency Shelter Diversion Specialist plays a vital role in this mission by conducting screenings and assessments for individuals and families seeking shelter. This position focuses on identifying alternative solutions and providing targeted assistance to help clients resolve their housing crises without entering emergency shelter. Through problem-solving strategies, resource connections, and financial diversion support, the specialist helps individuals achieve stability and long-term independence.

As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic some of the work may be conducted from home and employees may have staggered office schedules to facilitate greater social distancing at the office. All current employees must be fully vaccinated for Covid-19 by November 1, 2021 or receive an approved exemption. All newly hired employees will be required to supply proof of immunization or receive an approved exemption during the onboarding process.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

· Client Support & Resource Distribution:

o Assist community members seeking shelter or resources at the SSPADS office.

o Distribute essential items and transportation assistance to clients in need.

o Sort and distribute mail for clients using SSPADS as their mailing address and for other office locations.

· Shelter Diversion & Assessment:

o Conduct in-person and phone screenings of new shelter applicants to explore alternative housing solutions before resorting to emergency shelter.

o Identify clients eligible for financial diversion assistance and guide them through the application process.

o Collaborate with clients to develop a personalized service plan that outlines housing goals and addresses barriers to long-term independence.

o Deliver services using a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach.

· Financial Assistance & Referral Services:

o Submit funding requests to the SSPADS finance department for direct diversion assistance.

o Provide referrals to community organizations and social service agencies to ensure clients receive additional support as needed.

· Data Management & Reporting:

o Accurately document diversion assessments, case management notes, and services provided in the HMIS database.

o Review and correct HMIS data entry errors to maintain accurate and up-to-date records.

o Ensure compliance with funder requirements and assist in preparations for monitoring visits and audits.

o Enter client data and updates into the shelter waitlist system.

o Track diverted client outcomes and compile monthly reports.

· Perform other duties as assigned to support SSPADS’ mission and operations.

QUALIFICATIONS:

· 2-year College Degree in Health, Social Work, Human Services, or a related field

· Excellent communication, mediation, and negotiation skills.

· Ability to work independently while also collaborating within a team environment.

· Proficiency in case documentation, data entry, and report writing.

· Previous customer service, receptionist or call center experience

· Experience in homelessness prevention, case management, housing navigation, or a related field preferred.

· Knowledge of housing assistance programs, tenant rights, and local social service resources.

· Bilingual Spanish preferred

· Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel

· Prior experience with HMIS or a similar social work database

· All current employees must be fully vaccinated for Covid-19 or receive an approved exemption. All newly hired employees will be required to supply proof of immunization or receive an approved exemption during the onboarding process.

· Strong problem-solving and crisis intervention skills.

· Ability to engage and build trust with diverse populations, including those with histories of trauma, mental illness, or substance use disorders.

South Suburban PADS is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization that is working to prevent and end homelessness in the south suburbs of Chicago. Over the past 30 years, the organization has provided shelter and meals to enable over 19,000 people to survive homelessness. In addition, South Suburban PADS provides pathways home and currently helps over 400 people to preserve or access affordable rental homes every year. South Suburban PADS is the proud recipient of the 2018 Bank of America Neighborhood Builders Award. More at sspads.org

SSPADS adheres to the employment policy of providing equal opportunities to all job applicants and employees regardless of ethnicity, race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability or sexual orientation

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $21.00 - $23.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 403(b)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Work Location: In person

Salary : $21 - $23