Homeless Resource Advocate

COMMUNITY ACTION PARTNERSHIP OF STRAFFORD COUNTY

HOMELESS RESOURCE ADVOCATE

JOB DESCRIPTION

Revised April 2024

Job Title: Homeless Resource Advocate

Program/ CAPSC Home For Now

Reports To: Shelter Program Manager

FLSA Status: Regular/Full-Time/Non-Exempt

Probationary Period: Ninety (90) days

Work from Home Status: Not Eligible

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

CAPSC is seeking a compassionate and resolute individual to join our team as a Homeless Resource Advocate. In this role, you will work closely with individuals and families experiencing homelessness to provide comprehensive case management services aimed at addressing their immediate needs and facilitating their journey towards stable housing and self-sufficiency.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• B.A./B.S. degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or related field.

• Or A.A./A.S. degree and 2-3 years of previous experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness, preferably in case management or direct service capacity.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct comprehensive assessment of clients’ needs, including housing, healthcare, employment, and social support systems.

• Develop individualized service plans in collaboration with clients, focusing on short-term and long-terms goals for housing stability and personal growth.

• Offer supportive coaching and provide advocacy to empower clients in navigating the complexities of homelessness and accessing available resources and services.

• Coordinate with external agencies, including shelters, housing authorities, healthcare providers, schools, and social service organizations, to facilitate access to necessary support services for clients.

• Assist clients with applications for SNAP, Medicaid, TANF, VA or any applicable benefit programs.

• Assist clients in applying for and securing housing opportunities, including transitional housing, permanent supportive housing, and rental assistance programs.

• Advocate on behalf of clients to address barriers to housing, employment, healthcare, and other essential needs.

• Conduct regular follow-up meetings with clients to monitor progress, reassess needs, and adjust service plans, as necessary.

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation of client interactions, services plans, referrals, and outcomes in compliance with agency policies and funding requirements.

• Collaborate with interdisciplinary team members, including shelter support staff, family advocates, and housing navigators to ensure coordinated care and a whole family approach for clients.

• Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development activities to enhance knowledge and skills in serving individuals experiencing homelessness.

• Supports the Shelter Program Manager by organizing client group meetings when needed.

• Perform any other duties as required.

GENERAL EXPECTATIONS

• Plan, coordinate, organize and prioritize work.

• Maintains and models good hygiene, appropriate dress (neat, clean, modest), and direct, positive, honest, and respectful behavior to clients, staff, and the community.

• Energetically engages people, issues, and work.

• Applies the highest ethical standards to themselves and others daily.

• Supports others in their efforts to be productive and effective and succeed in work and life.

• Actively participates in teambuilding, which includes sharing ideas and mutual support of team members.

• Consistently uses people skills that are appropriate for individual styles, personalities, cultures, the nature of the work, and the environment in which the work is being done.

• Practices honest, respectful, and direct communication as well as active listening.

• Respects confidentiality of information about agency staff, personnel issues, and other program operations.

• Maintains a positive and productive attitude regarding the center and the CAPSC Agency when interacting both within the program and with the greater community.

EMPLOYMENT SCREENING

Valid Driver's License and insured vehicle (100/300 minimum coverage) for use on the job or acceptable alternative, driving record check, criminal record check, randomized drug screening.

Head Start, Early Head Start, Childcare, and Home Visiting Programs are also subject to the following: Head Start and Licensing requires a Childcare criminal record check and finger printing to be completed prior to employment. An initial physical examination record must be obtained upon hire, updated every three years, and kept on file with Human Resources. If a TB screening indicates high risk, results of a TB test must be kept on file including any treatment received. An initial driving record check will be conducted. Driver’s license information will also be submitted to the agency’s automobile insurance carrier.

MISSION VISION &VALUES

Our Mission: To reduce barriers to help clients improve their economic stability and well-being through education, advocacy, and partnerships.

Our Vision: To eliminate poverty in Strafford County.

Our Values: Compassion, Communication, Accountability, and

Client Focus.