Job Overview:
We are seeking an experienced and passionate Homeless Services Outreach Specialist to join our forward thinking team. If you enjoy thnking outside of the box and helping others this position may be a good fit for you. As a Homeless Services Outreach Specialist, you will play a vital role in connecting individuals and families in need with essential resources and services. This is a rewarding opportunity to make a positive impact on the community and help improve the lives of others.

Under the supervision of the Lead Outreach Specialist, the Homeless Services Outreach Specialist locates and engages unsheltered individuals and families living on the street, in encampments, vehicles, and other places not meant for human habitation. They build trusting relationships with participants and provide immediate support, assistance in connecting to local resources, and light case management to assist participants in stabilizing their lives and finding housing.

• Provide outreach services to unsheltered individuals and families experiencing homelessness on the street, in places not meant for human habitation, encampments, vehicles, day centers, and meal programs.
• Locate, identify, & build relationships with unsheltered individuals and families
• Assess housing & service needs.
• Complete/update assessments as needed.
• Manage client records and reporting using the HMIS data system.
• Follow HSC written standards for the provision of outreach services when applicable.

• Provide immediate support, intervention, and connections with homeless assistance programs, mainstream social services, and housing programs.
• Arrange, coordinate, & monitor delivery of individualized services to meet the needs of participants.
• Assist with connection to emergency medical care, mental health services, substance use treatment services, and transportation as needed.
• Conduct reliable needs assessment for each participant using trauma informed care, motivational interviewing, and harm reduction principles.
• Make regular contact with participants to continually assess their needs for resources and connection to services.
• Build positive collaborations with local social services agencies and the Madison Police Department

• Bachelor’s degree preferred in social work, psychology, or related social services field
• Strong knowledge of Google Workspace and Microsoft Office software applications.
• Must have a valid driver's license, vehicle, and current personal auto insurance coverage and maintain all as a condition of employment
• Pass Criminal and Caregiver Background Checks per DHS 12
• Have strong connection and knowledge of:
• shelter operators/resources
• housing resources
• behavioral health and physical health services
• Ability to work in diverse settings and provide culturally competent services.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills
• Ability to provide trauma informed services and utilize motivational interviewing and harm reduction principles.
• Ability to work and communicate frankly, respectfully, and effectively with children, youth, adults, families, and all team members.
• Ability to work independently and balance time in the community with clients versus the documentation requirements of the program.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Previous experience in working with individuals experiencing homelessness, mental health challenges, and/or substance use.

Note: This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the position. It is not exhaustive or comprehensive. Other duties may be required based on organizational needs.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $24.75 per hour

Expected hours: 8 per week

Benefits:

• 403(b)
• 403(b) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Evening shift
• Monday to Friday
• No weekends

Work Location: In person