Community Support Specialist - Oakland Shelter
Oakland, PA
Full Time
Mid Level
Community Support Specialist - Shelters
Job Classification: Shift: Mon-Fri 2p-10p Rate: $19.00 p/hr
Non-ExemptPosition Overview
The CSS works under the direction of the Program Manager to provide case management and supportive services to the participants of the shelter location. The goal of the program is to assist participants in obtaining stable housing outside of the shelter. CSS also provides case management and assistance gaining needed services, such as referrals to programs, assisting in applying for benefits/income, and accessing other resources which assist them in living in permanent housing and ending their episode of homelessness. The case manager works independently towards these goals; however, they are expected to consult with the Program Manager as needed. Other duties include, but are not limited to: community building, consistent case noting, continued file upkeep, attendance and participation at staff meetings, assistance to the larger shelter programs of CHS, and performance of other administrative, financial, and programmatic duties pursuant to program guidelines and regulations. CHS uses the Housing First and Harm Reduction service delivery models, assisting clients with housing as the immediate need without requirements to abstain from any harmful behavior prior to being housed.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the programming in CHS Shelters by working directly with participants enrolled in shelter.
- Empower individuals served in shelter by developing a non-judgmental, empathetic relationship focused on obtaining housing and reaching participant goals.
- Provide individual assessment of participant needs and conduct shelter program move ins
- Facilitate locating and securing housing by completing housing pathway assessment and completing applications and referrals for identified housing pathways.
- Create goal plans with program participants and assist the individual in meeting their goals. This includes a heavy emphasis on need for income, vital documents, affordable and safe housing and other supportive services.
- Meet with shelter program participants weekly to provide case management services focused on obtaining housing outside of the shelter.
- Advocate for appropriate benefits and access to appropriate services with external providers.
- Complete referrals and connect program participants to relevant community resources.
- Complete case notes, files, and maintain accurate, timely documentation in accordance with regulations.
- Support harm reduction, trauma-informed care, person-centered, and housing first principles.
- Assist individuals in the shelter program with resource navigation, phone calls, and completing paperwork as needed.
- Develop a professional and supportive relationship with participants of the program while maintaining and modeling appropriate boundaries.
- Attend staff meetings and training courses as scheduled.
- Collaborate with members of the CHS shelter team to support individuals served.
- Establish professional relationships with external homeless services staff, including outreach teams, service coordinators, housing program teams to collaborate and serve program participants.
- Perform other duties as required.
Knowledge Skills and Abilities
Through a combination of experience and education, the Community Support Specialist for Wood Street Commons will have:
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Exceptional customer service communication
- Cultural competence, being able to work effectively with all backgrounds
- Experience and ability to de-escalate mental and behavioral health crisis situations
- Strong organizational, phone and computer skills
- A working knowledge of the social service system through life or job-related experience
- A willingness to work both independently and collaboratively
- Strong ability to navigate the Internet to familiarize and access various resources
- Ability to work and travel independently
Position Physical Demands
The Community Support Specialist will be called upon to engage in physical activity related to general office work, including the capacity to lift up to 15lbs and stand or sit for extended periods. Also, the ability to walk up and down steps and physical activity related to cooking, cleaning, and general household maintenance.
*This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. It is not an employment contract. Our company reserves the right to modify job duties or job descriptions at any time.
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