Homeless Outreach

Job Title: Street Outreach Specialist

Program: Housing Services

Reports To: Housing Access and Outreach Manager

FLSA Status: Regular/Full-Time/Non-Exempt 

Work Schedule: M-F (40 hrs./wk.); occasional evening or weekend flexibility required

Probationary Period: Ninety (90) days

WFH Status: Hybrid eligible with significant community-based work

 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The Street Outreach Specialist engages individuals and families experiencing unsheltered homelessness and housing instability through community-based outreach and relationship-building. This position serves as an early point of connection to CAPSC’s housing access system, helping participants navigate pathways toward safe housing, supportive services, and long-term stability.

Using a housing-focused, trauma-informed, and participant-centered approach, the Street Outreach Specialist builds trust with individuals who may not be connected to traditional services and supports their connection to Coordinated Entry, shelter, housing programs, and community resources. The role emphasizes dignity, safety, and equitable access while reducing barriers to housing and promoting overall well-being.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

• Associate degree in Social Work, Human Services, or related field; equivalent relevant experience considered.


• Experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness, behavioral health challenges, or crisis situations preferred.


• Experience with outreach, engagement, or community-based services is strongly preferred.


• Familiarity with HMIS or comparable data systems is desirable.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESOutreach & Participant Engagement

• Conduct street outreach to identify and engage individuals and families experiencing unsheltered homelessness.


• Build trusting relationships through consistent, respectful, and trauma-informed engagement.


• Meet participants where they are and support voluntary connection to housing and supportive services.


• Respond appropriately to crisis situations while prioritizing safety and dignity.

Housing Access & System Connection

• Connect participants to Coordinated Entry and housing access services.


• Support participants in accessing shelter, housing programs, and community resources, including assistance with service navigation and transportation when appropriate.


• Assist participants in completing assessments and applications for housing and supportive services.

Community Collaboration

• Maintain collaborative relationships with shelters, municipalities, law enforcement, healthcare providers, behavioral health agencies, town welfare offices, and community partners.


• Coordinate outreach efforts and participate in case conferencing and coordinated outreach planning to support community response.

Documentation, Data & Program Accountability

• Maintain accurate and timely participant records and outreach activity documentation.


• Enter required data into HMIS and other agency systems in accordance with program requirements.


• Ensure confidentiality and compliance with agency and funder standards.


• Support reporting and outcome tracking activities.

Professional Development & Program Support

• Participate in supervision, trainings, and team meetings.


• Maintain knowledge of housing resources, outreach best practices, and community supports.


• Contribute to continuous improvement of outreach practices and service delivery.

GENERAL EXPECTATIONS

• Model CAPSC’s mission, values, and commitment to reducing barriers and promoting equitable access to services.


• Demonstrate participant-centered, trauma-informed engagement practices.


• Maintain confidentiality of participant and agency information.


• Communicate respectfully and effectively with participants, staff, and community partners.


• Promote collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.


• Represent CAPSC professionally within the community.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Commitment to participant-centered, trauma-informed engagement practices.


• Ability to build trust and maintain professional boundaries while working with individuals experiencing crisis or unsheltered homelessness.


• Strong interpersonal communication and relationship-building skills.


• Ability to work independently in community-based settings while maintaining coordination with a team.


• Strong organizational and time-management skills, including the ability to prioritize tasks and manage a flexible schedule.


• Ability to assess safety considerations and respond appropriately in dynamic outreach environments.


• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and web-based data systems; ability to learn HMIS and other required documentation platforms.


• Knowledge of community resources, housing programs, and supportive service systems preferred.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Position requires significant community-based work, including outdoor outreach in varying weather conditions.


• Frequent local travel is required to conduct outreach and meet with participants and community partners.


• May involve walking, standing, and transporting supplies for extended periods of time.


• Regular interaction with individuals experiencing crisis situations, behavioral health challenges, or unstable living conditions.


• Ability to safely navigate diverse environments, including encampments, public spaces, shelters, and partner locations.


• Combination of field work, office-based responsibilities, and limited remote work.

 

EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS

• Valid driver’s license and insured vehicle (100/300 minimum coverage) or acceptable transportation alternative.


• Criminal background and driving record checks required.


• Randomized drug screenings

Head Start, Early Head Start, Childcare, and Home Visiting Programs are also subject to the following: Head Start and Licensing requires a Childcare criminal record check and finger printing to be completed prior to employment. An initial physical examination record must be obtained upon hire, updated every three years, and kept on file with Human Resources. If a TB screening indicates high risk, results of a TB test must be kept on file including any treatment received. An initial driving record check will be conducted. Driver’s license information will also be submitted to the agency’s automobile insurance carrier.

MISSION, VISION & VALUES

Mission: To reduce barriers to help clients improve their economic stability and well-being through education, advocacy, and partnerships.

Vision: To eliminate poverty.

Values: Communication, Collaboration, Client Focus, and Accountability.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

• I have read and understand the explanation and position description.


• I have the ability to complete the functions and duties outlined in the position description.


• The job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position and it is not intended to be an exhaustive list of skills, efforts, duties, responsibilities or working conditions associated with the position.


• If I have any questions regarding the information I have read or the interpretation of any requirements, I will bring them to the attention of my supervisor.