Outreach and Engagement Specialist

Job Title: Outreach and Engagement Specialist – RPHP Program

Program: Gateway Cities Council of Governments (GCCOG) Renter Protection and Homelessness Prevention (RPHP) Financial Services

Position Summary

Under the supervision of the Program Manager, the Outreach Specialist engages individuals and families experiencing or at risk of homelessness to connect them with housing, prevention resources, and supportive services. This position conducts community-based outreach services, builds relationships with unsheltered and at-risk populations, and facilitates access to homeless prevention, emergency services, and housing stabilization programs in accordance with contractual regulations and agency policies.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Outreach & Engagement

• Conducts street, shelter, and community-based outreach to organizations to explain RPHP services and the referral process
• Participate in community events to explain the RPHP program and provide initial information to the surrounding communities
• Explain the program to individuals and families experiencing homelessness or at imminent risk of housing loss
• Builds rapport using trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and client-centered engagement practices
• Provides information about homeless prevention, shelter, and housing assistance programs
• Maintains professional boundaries and ensures respectful, non-coercive interactions

• Conducts initial screenings to assess housing status, vulnerability, and immediate needs
• Facilitates referrals to homeless prevention, emergency shelter, rental assistance, and supportive services
• Supports client enrollment in coordinated entry systems as required
• Assists clients in obtaining documentation and navigating service systems

• Collaborates with case managers and housing staff to support housing stabilization efforts
• Assists clients at risk of eviction with connection to prevention resources
• Supports follow-up and re-engagement efforts to maintain housing stability

• Documents outreach activities, contacts, and referrals accurately and timely and in accordance with contractual and HYC standards
• Enters client data into Exym and other required reporting systems
• Maintains confidentiality and compliance with contractual documentation standards

• Builds and maintains relationships with community partners, shelters, landlords, service providers, and local agencies
• Participates in outreach events, case conferencing, and interagency meetings
• Coordinates with law enforcement and emergency responders when appropriate and in accordance with agency policy
• Trauma-informed and harm-reduction approach
• Cultural humility and ethical service delivery
• Ability to work independently in the field
• Strong problem-solving and de-escalation skills
• Professional boundaries and confidentiality

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED (required)

• Bachelor's degree in behavioral health and/or a minimum of 2 years of case management and outreach directly tied to homelessness.

• Experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness or housing instability

• Knowledge of homeless services systems, outreach practices, and community resources

• Strong organizational, communication, and documentation skills

• Possess a valid California driver's license and have access to a properly registered vehicle

• Ability to pass a background check and criminal clearance

• Ability to successfully pass a TB screening test.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made, if requested, to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

HYC, INC. IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.  EMPLOYMENT CONSIDERATION IS MADE WITHOUT REGARD TO AGE, RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, GENDER, GENDER IDENTITY, GENDER EXPRESSION, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, MARITAL STATUS, NATION ORIGIN, ANCESTRY, MILITARY OR VETERAN STATUS, INCLUDING PHYSICAL OR MENTAL DISABILITIES OR ANY OTHER LEGALLY PROTECTED STATUS.

Salary : $28