Life Coach-Rebuild

Job Title: Life Coach - Rebuild

Team: Programs/Men’s Shelter

Classification: Full-Time, Non-Exempt

Reports To: Men’s Shelter and Program Manager

Direct Reports: None

Effective Date: February 2024

Position Summary

The Life Coach demonstrates compassion and program structure adherence in a well-balanced fashion, with a Christ-centered approach. He is a dedicated individual working with all men in the shelter but is assigned specific case management for men in our Rebuild Program. The Life Coach provides direct and indirect support, guidance, and counseling to individuals experiencing homelessness and needing a supportive, long-term environment to work on obtaining sustainable, permanent housing.

Position Qualifications

For Employment with Oliver Gospel Mission

• A believer in Jesus Christ
• Affirm without reservation the Mission’s Statement of Faith
• Fully support the Mission’s Statements of Mission, Vision and Core Values
• Ability and desire to work in harmony with other Mission employees
• Be on time and ready to work at the assigned work location on every scheduled day of work
• Due to sensitivity for potential impact upon the Mission’s Program Participants, the use of alcohol, tobacco and/or vaping products is not permitted during scheduled work hours or at any Mission related event
• Valid South Carolina driver’s license

For the Life Coach

• High school diploma or equivalent required; Bachelor's degree in social work, counseling psychology, or related field highly preferred (Ministry experience and education beneficial)
• Previous experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness, addiction, or mental health issues (various related certifications or credentials preferred)
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and challenging environment
• Patient, and non-judgmental attitude
• Knowledge of community resources and support services
• Ability to manage multiple projects in multiple areas simultaneously
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and healthy boundaries
• Proven ability to work independently while staying aligned with the priorities of the organization
• Experience with today’s common PC-based software and office equipment
• Knowledge of HMIS or other case/bed management systems required (training required if no experience)

Position Responsibilities

• Develop individualized plans and goals for program participants to work and save effectively within the 6-month timeframe, while also working on holistic matters of mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being
• Provide one-on-one counseling and support to program members in a non-judgmental and empathetic manner
• Continual awareness, reporting, and enforcement of policies and practices ensuring the safety and security of shelter guests and staff
• Collaborate with proper staff to ensure program members have adequate clothing and essentials upon entry and throughout the program
• Collaborate with other staff to ensure a cooperative team approach and accountability for program members
• Collaborate with other staff members and community resources to ensure comprehensive care for program participants
• Foster partnerships within the community under the direction of the Shelter Manager
• Maintain proper channels of communication within, as well as outside of the facility
• Conduct alcohol and drug screens on participants throughout the duration of the program and report suspicion of illegal substance abuse or other life or health threats
• Proficiently enter/report HMIS data with accuracy and consistency
• Maintain confidentiality of client records and information
• Utilize tools and resources to measure individual and program outcomes
• Participate in staff meetings, training, and professional development opportunities
• Provide Manager updates on activities in areas of responsibility and program member progress
• Under the direction of the shelter manager occasionally represent OG at local churches, businesses, and other partner agencies
• Properly record, dispense, and follow up on medication routines/consumption
• Provide transportation for program members to worship services, job/life-related needs correlated with program requirements, and other events/activities when needed
• Pray with/for those served by the ministry, and be comfortable and willing to lead a guest to the Lord, model vulnerability to guests when appropriate
• Facilitate group therapy/support groups and prepare lesson plans/conduct classes as assigned
• Regularly demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of mental health issues that affect homelessness
• Maintain a high standard of excellence in all areas
• Consistently apply clear boundaries and engage with professionalism that is above reproach
• Maintain counseling or other required certification/credentials
• Assist with front desk coverage when needed, all-hands-on-deck team mentality
• Assist with onsite donations and community essential needs requests as needed
• When needed assist with shelter activities in dining, courtyard, sidewalk, and other shelter areas
• Maintain and foster relationships with volunteers under the supervision of Shelter Manager
• Ensure while working shelter or men in the shelter or at an Oliver Gospel-sponsored event/activity are never left unattended without a staff member assigned to provide coverage
• Performs other duties as assigned

Core Competencies

• Work independently
• Make difficult but prudent decisions
• Appropriately handle confrontation and apply de-escalation techniques
• Balance firmness with grace
• Communicate clearly and effectively
• Excellent attention to detail
• Professionalism with strong interpersonal skills
• Strong team player attitude and example
• Strong administrative and organizational skills with a flexible/adaptable attitude
• Maintain positive attitude under pressure

Mental and Physical Demands

• Ability to work in a changing, growth-oriented environment – high adaptability
• Ability to concentrate and apply mental processes
• Ability to work with disruptions, critical issues and emotional individuals
• Ability to remain in a stationary position for long periods of time
• Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment for long periods of time
• Ability to move about inside the facility to engage employees, residents and/or guests
• Ability to frequently lift and carry materials weighing up to 50 pounds
• Ability to frequently push or pull materials weighing up to 25 pounds
• Ability to engage in limited exposure to health-related issues such as colds, viruses, etc.
• Ability to participate in physical fitness activities