Outreach Specialist - Veterans

Outreach Specialist

As part of the SSVF team, this position serves as the primary initial S:US contact point for Veterans and their families. This position delivers outreach and supportive services to veteran families by providing engagement and ongoing support. Assists team members in the delivery of daily services, including providing positive modeling, peer counseling, support and encouragement to participants. Screens and assesses applicants applying for SUS Veterans Services and navigates applicants for program services through the intake process, documentation standards and necessary supports.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide outreach through the distribution of materials, informational/educational presentations and marketing to community members and possible participants.
• Address crowds of varying sizes and offer program presentations.
• Provide resource and referral services to community members and possible participants, particularly for U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs services and entitlements, public benefits, and housing resources.
• Develop, assess and monitor strategic outreach plan and resources in conjunction with SSVF staff and other SSVF programs.
• Interface with representatives from referring agencies and partnering service providers in order to facilitate the delivery of program services and a steady flow of referrals.
• Assist program participants with accessing needed community services (housing, employment, medical, psychological, substance abuse, vocational, food, clothing, etc.) through the development of a referral network, referral and follow up.
• Maintain a small caseload of SSVF participants in accordance with SSVF standards.
• Assist with the development of Housing Stability Plans and follow-up re-certifications with participants.
• Act as advocate for participants as appropriate; encourage and support self-advocacy.
• Maintain a strong working relationship with colleagues and program managers.
• Document all services in compliance with agency standards.
• Work as a member of the social service team in the development of on-site and off-site socialization, educational, risk reduction and skill building activities with a view towards permanent housing stability.
• Liaison to community-based services and groups including civic, social service, government, businesses, landlords and non-profit organizations.
• Participate in ongoing individual supervision, team meetings, case conferences, division meetings and trainings.
• Participate in SUS Veterans Service Fair(s) and other events.
• Completion of other tasks as assigned by manager.

Qualifications

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces a plus;
  • Lived expertise in homelessness or human services a plus;
  • Must have an ability travel to outreach events and to engage Veterans in the field;
  • Willingness to travel across various locations regularly including homeless shelters and VA locations (up to 80% of the time);
  • Ability to work outside of normal business hours a plus, including Veterans Day and occasional weekend hours