Shelter Case Manager

Job Description

PathForward

Shelter Case Manager

Position Summary:

The Shelter Case Manager works with the residents to secure a safe alternative housing placements or permanent housing, as quickly as possible, and link the individuals with needed supports. The Shelter Case Manager’s primary focus is to end homeless housing crisis by rapidly returning residents to safe alternative housing by developing an individual housing plan.

Key Responsibilities

Complete an initial intake within 72 hours of the client entering the program and follow up with a comprehensive assessment after 7 days using the VI-SPADT in accordance with the CAS System in HMIS.

Develop Individual Housing Plan (IHP) within 10 days. Focusing on the following:

Identification of client needs as related to housing placement as detailed in the Individual Housing Plan (e.g., housing location, entitlements, employment, medical, mental health, substance abuse, life skills, legal, etc.) .

Identification of strengths, challenges, and available resources.

Set clear target date for housing placement (specifying who is responsible for each action step).

Responsible for initiating housing focused Case Management services for all clients within 7 days.

After 7 days, Case Manager will complete a Full VISPDAT to determine the best housing option for the client.

Assess individual clients with high barriers at 30 days and request a case conference when necessary, according to the guidelines outlined by the CAS Policy. Case Manager is the primary staff person with regards to housing placements.

Assist clients with removing barriers to housing, obtaining proper ID, obtaining income, paying off debts, and applying for housing and subsidies.

Case Manager to incorporate in IHP post placement services and contact follow up after housing. Develop a housing stabilization plan prior to exiting shelter.

This will occur at 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months after post placement.

The Case manager will be responsible for coordinated services with all service providers and client reintegration into the community.

As a means of engaging and motivating shelter clients, employ evidence-based strategies such as progressive engagement, motivational interviewing, and trauma-informed care.

Case Managers are responsible for facilitating and or coordinating at least one life skills group meeting with clients (i.e., tenants’ rights, financial education) per month.

Facilitate weekly Community meetings with shelter residents as well as coordinating speakers, in-services, and social events for the community meetings.

Maintain client files (in accordance with funding source and program standards established in the Unified Shelter Policy Manual) e.g., participation agreement, release forms, IHP and maintain up-to-date progress notes.

Maintain individuals’ confidentiality at all times.

Work as part of a team, meeting regularly to share information, strategies, mutual support, and ideas with a primary goal to address the long-term needs of homeless individuals including access to permanent housing.

Attend scheduled team meetings and other meetings as required.

Adhere to agency Code of Ethics.

Update skills by taking advantage of available training opportunities offered.

All other duties and projects as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

None.

Qualifications and Skills

Ability to work well with individuals in crisis.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Strong organizational skills.

Fundamental characteristics including empathy, patience, and persistence are required.

Highly motivated, self-directed and team oriented.

Ability to work with persons with serious mental illness and/or substance addiction.

Proficient knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and similar software.

Proficient knowledge of Homeless Management Information System databases.

Ability to maintain accurate records and high level of confidentiality.

Demonstrates commitment to diversity.

Demonstrated ability to exercise good judgement.

Reliable and dependable and able to handle multiple tasks and deadlines,

Must have a valid driver’s license and personal liability insurance.

Experience and Education Requirements

BSW or Bachelor’s degree required.

Experience with substance abuse, mental health issues and chronically homeless individuals.

Experience in Motivational Interviewing and use of progressive methodologies.

Experience working in multi-cultural settings.

CPR/First Aid Certification must be acquired and maintained once employed.

Physical Requirements:

Work is performed in a shelter.

Must be able to lift a minimum of 30 pounds.

Work is subject to frequent interruption.

Subject to work flexible hours that may include weekends, overnights, evenings, and holidays.

Subject to work in a variety of weather conditions.

Knowledge of Word, Excel, and Homeless Management Information System databases is required.

Candidate must have a valid driver’s license, a clean driving record

Negative Tuberculosis screening.

10 am - 6 pm Monday through Friday