Homeless Outreach Specialist

GENERAL DESCRIPTION 

Work as part of a team to identify and provide services to individuals and families experiencing unsheltered homelessness through direct street outreach activities and referrals from shelters, police, churches, town welfare officers, human service providers, and other sources. The ideal candidate is self-motivated, a quick learner, capable of working independently with minimal supervision, and skilled in time management and attention to detail. The role requires the ability to engage with a diverse range of clients and collaborate with various community resource providers. 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE 

• Bachelor’s degree in social work or a related Human Services field; candidates with 3-4 years of relevant experience will also be considered.
• Additional experience and/or training in substance use disorders and mental health disabilities is preferred.
• Proficiency in computer use is required; familiarity with New Hampshire HMIS data entry systems is desirable.
• Strong empathy skills and effective verbal and written communication abilities are essential.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Identify unsheltered individuals and families through direct street outreach and referrals from shelters, police, churches, town welfare officers, human service providers, and other sources.
• Initiate contact and establish working relationships with unsheltered individuals to aid, secure shelter, and connect them with necessary services.
• Collaborate with Coordinated Entry to identify eligible clients for shelter and/or housing programs.
• Respond appropriately to homeless emergencies.
• Assist clients with transportation to shelters or service providers.
• Establish and maintain positive, productive relationships with mental health agencies, town welfare offices, police departments, local shelters, businesses, and other service providers.
• Participate in relevant workshops, trainings, meetings, and Homeless Services Continuums.
• Operate within budget constraints.
• Maintain accurate client records, activity logs, and reports while ensuring confidentiality and adhering to reporting deadlines.
• Conduct intake interviews for clients seeking emergency housing, gathering information on their homelessness, socio-economic history, prior treatment, service experiences, special needs, and overall circumstances.
• Assist clients with applications for alternative or support services, such as intensive case management and behavioral health housing, when applicable.
• Utilize HMIS for client data entry.
• Use the EmpowOR system to collect data, complete forms, and document services.
• Participate in community committees and roundtables as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES 

• None.

GENERAL EXPECTATIONS 

• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding agency staff, personnel matters, and program operations.
• Demonstrate a strong commitment to confidentiality in all client interactions.
• Plan, organize, prioritize, and coordinate work effectively.
• Model direct, positive, honest, and respectful behavior in all interactions with clients, families, staff, and community members.
• Engage with people, issues, and tasks with energy and professionalism.
• Apply the highest ethical standards in daily interactions with clients and colleagues.
• Support and encourage team members to be effective, productive, and successful.
• Actively participate in team-building by sharing ideas and providing mutual support.
• Demonstrate effective interpersonal skills, adapting communication to suit individual styles, cultures, and work environments.
• Practice honest, respectful, and direct communication, including active listening skills.
• This is a grant-funded position,