Outreach Worker 11-160 -SC/Santa Monica Corps

Mission Statement

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Position Summary

The Outreach Worker works under the direction and supervision of the Outreach Case Manager. He/she performs outreach, information/referral, and peer support in conjunction with Santa Monica 311 response. The Outreach worker collaborates closely with other internal/external resources to provide resources that may be used to assist individuals in accessing services to include, but not limited to: food, shelter, clothing, legitimate income and interim housing. Additionally, the Outreach worker works with outreach coordinator and Santa Monica police department in assisting clients in connecting to physical and mental health services. He/she updates and maintains client documentation and information in applicable computer software.

Essential Functions

• Participates in outreach efforts as directed by city staff and HLP team to provide resources, information, assistance, and potential placement to individuals in need with the goal of finding interim or permanent housing. This includes, but is not limited to food, shelter, clothing, transportation, income and housing.
• Outreach efforts include streets, beaches, river bottoms and other places not meant for human habitation.
• Works with case manager and outreach coordinator to develop individual case plans to assist clients in overcoming barriers that prevent housing and/or stability.
• Assists clients in navigating healthcare resources in order to access physical and mental health services. This assistance includes but is not limited to; coordinating/scheduling appointments, assessment, arranging transportation, and coordinating medication pickup.
• Helps clients to access housing resources and financial assistance, if applicable. Provides information and referrals to public housing resources, emergency shelter, and addiction treatment.
• Incorporates evidence-based practices when providing case management such as; Motivational Interviewing, Harm Reduction, etc.
• Meets with clients to problem solve issues preventing access to services and provide information and referrals that will enhance clients' wellbeing and self-determination.
• Works closely with city of Santa Monica staff, prepares reports and follows direction of city staff if applicable and in collaboration with the Outreach Coordinator
• Collaborates with Santa Monica Police Department and local agencies providing operation support and response to 311 service requests.
• Be ready for flexible work schedules after office hours and weekends if necessary.
• Updates and ensures information related to client files and applicable computer software (HMIS, Wellsky, 311 database, NSS, etc.) is complete and accurate. Performs audits routinely.
• Maintain accurate time keeping records that are reflective of duties performed under different grant/contracts.
• Attends staff and program related meetings, conferences, and training as needed and required. Cooperates with supervisors in any other special projects as needed.
• Perform multiple tasks as assigned.

Working Conditions

Ability to walk, stand, bend, squat, climb, kneel, and twist on an intermittent or sometimes in a continuous basis. Ability to grasp, push, pull objects such as files, file cabinet drawers, and reach overhead. Ability to operate computer, fax, and telephone. Ability to lift 30 lbs.

Minimum Qualifications

• Experience and/or demonstrated aptitude for successful performance of responsibilities.
• Minimum one (1) year experience in a human service position or internship.
• Preferred bachelor's degree in human services or related work/life experience
• Ability to work effectively with marginalized and vulnerable people groups; engage clientele in a nondiscriminatory manner, including program participants who may display a wide range of behaviors.
• Willingness to work in an alcohol and drug free environment and to take alcohol and drug tests when requested.
• Ability to lift to 30 pounds.

Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

• Must have experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness and/or those in need and understand basic case management principles.
• Ability to communicate effectively in both written and oral communication.
• Have intermediate computer skills with ability to use Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook effectively and efficiently
• Must be compassionate, resilient, and be willing to ensure compliance with program policies and rules.
• Ability to drive and maintain a valid Class C California Driver's License. Able to pass a TSA Driving Test and maintain a clean MVR.
• Current CPR Certificate.
• Willing and able to maintain confidential information in accordance with Salvation Army and industry standards.

Bachelors of Social Work (required)

Have intermediate computer skills with ability to use Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook effectively and efficiently (required)
Preferred bachelor's degree in human services or related work/life experience (preferred)
Minimum one (1) year experience in a human service position or internship. (required)

Driver's License (required)

Skills