Job Details

Position Summary:

The Community Support Specialist supports the Homeless Programs Director in providing persons seeking assistance with Transitional Housing, Rapid Re-Housing, and supportive services through the HOME ARP and Domestic Violence programs.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Meet with clients to obtain information and completion of application for services
• Provide Case Management services by meeting with assisted clients a minimum of once per month
• Maintain case file on each applicant with case notes and HMIS or OSNIUM data entry
• Proficient in documentation and organization of files
• Orient new clients to supportive and housing services that are provided by OCCYFS
• Ensure facilities are ready for new clients (includes completion of walk-throughs, lead -based paint and habitability forms)
• Address any needs of clients
• Enforce program guidelines to ensure a safe and secure environment
• Provide stabilization support
• Ensure compliance with all funding and programmatic guidelines, including accurate reporting to funding agencies, stakeholders, and grants
• Assist participants as needed to obtain documents for verification of services
• Maintains updated information on housing availability
• Forms relationships with housing agencies, management companies and landlords
• Coordinates and/or accompany clients to housing appointments as needed
• Provide participants with referrals and linkages to needed community resources
• Assist clients with housing search, facilitate move, including but not limited to gathering furnishings, reviewing lease, reviewing tenant responsibilities, meeting with landlords and discussing payment requirements
• Build and maintain relationships with clients to promote a partnership in achieving client goals and building client skills to maintain stable housing
• Works closely with the corporate office to communicate financial needs of the victims
• Become proficient in Rapid Rehousing processes, including compiling complete client files
• Participate in annual Point in Time count of homeless individuals
• Participate in PQI activities as requested

Qualifications:

Minimum Education and Experience:

• The Community Support specialist will have a minimum of a High School Diploma with 5 years' experience working with persons in poverty and/or housing assistance, bachelor's degree with 2 years' experience. Bachelor's degree preferred
• Experience working with homeless and survivors of domestic abuse
• Data entry experience
• Must have a valid driver's license, driver's insurance and pass all background checks and random drug screens

Skills and Knowledge:

• Demonstrates knowledge of the target population of the program.
• Ability to supervise clients in an assertive and pleasant manner
• Ability to role model appropriate personal hygiene and appearance
• Must be motivated to work with multi-cultural clients
• Practices excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Practices and models conflict resolution skills.
• Understands and model's cultural sensitivity to OCYFS's clients and families