Peer Outreach Specialist

TITLE: Peer Outreach Specialist JOB SUMMARY : The Peer Outreach Specialist conducts outreach activities with a focus on chronically homeless and highly vulnerable individuals. The Peer Outreach Specialist is a member of the Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) that will provide services to clients on the streets and in encampments.

They will address the individuals’ immediate needs and work to engage them in the housing process.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

INCLUDE , but are not limited to, the following : Conducts team-based and individual outreach activities to engage chronically homeless individuals toward pursuing permanent housing options. Receives, assesses, and triages referrals from walk-ins and other collaborative partners. Conducts standardized screening and triages chronically homeless individuals as part of a multidisciplinary outreach team, including experts in mental health, substance use, and physical health, including nursing/medical staff.

Assists individuals with collecting documents necessary for applying for permanent supportive housing. Attends case conferencing meetings to coordinate services with other providers. Connects individuals to supportive services as needed, such as mental health, health, substance abuse, employment, etc. Documents services and completes data entry into HMIS database.

Provide linkage to mainstream resources, such as DPSS or Social Security Disability. Provide transportation assistance for the purposes of stabilizing the current housing crisis. Conduct follow-up activities to ensure completion of the crisis-housing plan. Identify appropriate interventions to address and resolve the homeless status of program participants.

Assist individuals with accessing permanent housing opportunities, including permanent supportive housing, move-in assistance, shared housing, affordable housing, etc. Other duties as assigned. PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT: Work indoors in a temperature-controlled environment and occasionally exposed to outdoor weather and driving conditions.

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Stand and sit for long periods of time; move and walk to various locations; climb stairs, stoop, kneel, reach, pull, push, bend, twist, and occasionally lift and/or move objects. Use hands and fingers to handle or feel. See, hear, and speak clearly to give and receive information and instructions.

Ability to interact with other employees, clients, customers, and members of the public. Ability to work effectively under time constraints, prioritize work, multi-task, and adapt to changing work demands. Gather, analyze, synthesize, and classify information. Transcribe, enter, and post data. Ability to respond effectively to sensitive inquiries or complaints.

Requires use of a computer keyboard. Travel to off-site meetings. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of emergency housing, transitional, and permanent housing resources throughout Los Angeles County preferred. Knowledge of housing issues in San Gabriel Valley preferred. Knowledge of HUD guidelines and experience working with subsidized housing programs such as Section 8, Shelter Plus Care, and others preferred.

Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing preferred. Proficient in use of laptop computer and Microsoft Windows and Office software programs (Word, Access, Excel, PowerPoint, Gmail) preferred. Ability to accurately enter client data and notes in the Homeless Management Information System preferred.

Proficient with office communication equipment and machines (telephone, copier, calculator, fax machine, personal computer, laptop, computer printer and scanner) preferred. Possess a valid California driver's license and have access to a properly registered vehicle preferred. EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE: Personal familiarity with homelessness - having experienced homelessness.

Completion of a peer case manager or peer advocacy program preferred. Union Station Homeless Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer