DCFS Probation and Problem-Solving Specialist

Under the leadership and direction of the YCES Regional Coordinator, the DCFS Probation Problem Solving Specialist is a crisis response philosophy and approach focused on supporting individuals and families experiencing a housing crisis to quickly identify and access alternative housing resources outside of the homeless crisis response system. By practicing active listening skills through creative conversations, the DCFS Probation Problem Solving Specialist supports the individual or family in crisis to identify viable temporary or permanent housing resources within their own networks or resources, such as family or friends. In select cases and as a last resort, limited and one-time financial assistance can enhance an individual or family's success in rapidly connecting to alternative temporary or permanent housing.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Utilize cultural-relevant active listening and motivational interviewing with participants to support them to access temporary or permanent housing outside of the Coordinated Entry System (CES)
• Liaise with, and provide technical assistance to, Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS) regional office staff including children’s social workers (CSW)
• Liaise with, and provide technical assistance to, Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) regional office staff including children’s social workers (CSW) for youth exiting or exited from DCFS|
• Liaise with and provide technical assistance to Probation Camp staff and field deputy probation officers for youth exiting or exited from DCFS.
• Participate in discharge planning meetings and related services for youth and young Adults exiting foster care and/or Probation Camps
• Identify safety or health issues that may need to be considered during identification of housing.
• Provide mediation between households and property owners/family/friends to assist in resolving housing crisis.
• Partner with legal service providers to resolve housing crises
• Deliver both field- and place-based supportive services, as appropriate, to participants
• Acquire resources and make successful referrals, including follow-up to ensure the participant successfully accesses and initially retains housing.
• Negotiate terms of agreements between participants and host as appropriate (e.g. actively seek employment, attend to medical/mental health/substance abuse issues, complete weekly household chores
• Ensure services are documented (e.g., face to face, phone and collateral contacts) in the LA CoC homeless management information system (HMIS) in a timely and thorough manner.
• Assist in budgeting with participants, and determine what level of minimal assistance is necessary to be successfully housed or have housing crisis resolved Facilitate access to CES for participants, as appropriate, including the completion of the Initial Triage and Initial Assessment phases of system access and assessment, For participants gaining entry into CES, provide a warm handoff to sustained case management services where possible, or provide initial case management for up to 60-days upon the participant gaining CES access
• Continuously try new approaches and explore new solutions.
• Deliver services based on participant strengths
• Attend trainings and participate in regular technical assistance such as learning collaboratives.

• 1 – 3 years’ experience working with at risk or experiencing of homelessness
• Counseling experience preferred
• Knowledge of HMIS
• Knowledge and experience working with co-occurring populations (chronic health conditions, mental health and substance abuse)
• Knowledge and experience with motivational interviewing, evidence-based practices, and trauma informed care
• Understanding of Housing First and Harm Reduction
• Strong understanding of homeless services including CES
• Strong understanding of LA County foster care and juvenile justice systems, including foster care placement options, participant rights and eligibility, and discharge planning processes
• Strong belief in growth mindset, self-determination, and psychological resilience
• Compliance with information and security policy and procedures
• Bilingual in Spanish is a plus
• Reliable transportation: valid driver's license, a clean driving record, car insurance as required by law, as appropriate.
• Proof of TB testing

BENEFITS

CRCD is in the top 10% for excellent benefits for non-profits with an array of benefits available including:

• 14 Paid Holidays
• On-Demand training memberships to bolster professional development
• Dental/Vision/ 85% employer-paid & 45% dependent paid Medical Insurance
• 401k eligibility from day one & up to 3% matching after one year
• 529 Educational Savings Plan from Principle
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Short & Long Term Disability
• Accident & Hospital Indemnity
• Whole life insurance with cash benefits
• Identity Theft Protection and Legal Services
• Discount pet insurance through ASPCA
• Generous work/life balance

Job Type: Full-time

SALARY:

Pay: $48,000.00 - $55,000.00 per year