Housing Stabilization Case Manager - Travels

SUMMARY

Provide case management services to assigned clients transitioning from emergency shelter into short term housing. Case management includes initial and ongoing assessment with regular follow up and referrals/linkages to community-based services.  Perform home visits.  The target population is formerly homeless individuals.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide case management services for clients exiting emergency shelter systems in an effort to successfully transition to enhanced self-sufficiency.  
• Establish a service plan with each individual.  
• Provide related information and referrals to community-based resources including Fuel Assistance, Food Stamps, food pantries, and other services that can assist the client in the maintenance of sustainable housing.
• Coordinate all services required by the service plan. 
• Work collaboratively with other SMOC staff on housing and employment search and stability as indicated in the service plan. 
• Establish a respectful relationship with clients and schedule regular home visits to monitor the service plan.  
• Maintain weekly contact and re- assess, evaluate and document adherence to the service plan on a regular basis.   
• Support clients in their continued economic development planning.  
• Assist clients in establishing positive relationships with the landlord.  Provide monthly communication where necessary and mediate any conflict.        Advocate in Housing Court.  
• If the tenancy is endangered for any reason, ensure that the client resolves the issue and retains the tenancy or assist the client in finding a sustainable housing alternative instead of returning to shelter.
• Maintain up to date case notes, telephone contact log and referrals to community-based services.  Enter all client data into the required database(s) on a daily basis.   
• Participate as a member of the Case Management team, attend all team meetings.  
• Conduct groups and workshops related to the clients needs as appropriate.
• Assist clients in arranging appointments and transportation.   
• Engage all clients by understanding and addressing their needs whether within or outside the scope of work.
• Attend & participate in engagement team meetings as requested and communicate effectively with clients and staff in other areas.
• Maintain confidentiality of client, employee and agency information in accordance with federal and state laws and funder requirements.
• Ensure compliance with program/department, agency and/or funder requirements, as well as, SMOC policies & procedures.  
• Other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS 

• Bachelor’s Degree preferred, or a minimum of three years experience in Human Services or related field. 
• Minimum one year assessment, advocacy and case management skills. 
• Sensitivity to low-income people of diverse backgrounds; excellent listening skills.
• Ability to work independently.  
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Bi-lingual preferred.        
• Must have valid driver’s license, reliable transportation and meet insurance standards.

ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIP

• Directly reports to Program Supervisor or Manager.     
• Direct reports of this position are none.  

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to drive a vehicle
• Must be able to ascend/descend stairs in residences.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Some travel via employee’s personal vehicle is required.   As part of the responsibilities of this position, the Stabilization Case Manager - travels will have direct or incidental contact with clients served by SMOC in various programs funded or administered through the Executive Office of Health and Human Services.   A successful background check is required.