Continuum of Care Navigator

ABOUT US

The pretrial stage is a critical juncture in the larger criminal justice process; whether or not someone gets out of custody after arrest is a major determinant of the ultimate outcome of the case, as those who remain in jail are more likely to face a conviction than those who are released. In addition, the presumption of innocence and constitutional protections against excessive bail are two of our most foundational legal principles. Despite these facts, and against the backdrop of mass incarceration nationwide, jail populations in San Francisco and across the country are disproportionately composed of pretrial individuals.

We work to address this critical issue by providing alternatives to pretrial incarceration. By doing so, the San Francisco Pretrial Diversion Project does its part to prevent unjust harm and unnecessary incarceration. Rather than languishing behind bars, newly arrested people can be released to our services to receive care, support, case management, and referrals to outside treatment providers. Our services are diverse and wide-ranging in recognition of the many needs that justice-involved people may have. Further, San Francisco has been the seat of new bail reform initiatives in California, which has afforded us the opportunity to continue to grow and build on our 45 years of experience overseeing pretrial services in the City and County.

SUMMARY

The primary responsibility for the Continuum of Care Navigator will be to coordinate and oversee the placement of San Francisco Pretrial Diversion Project (SFPDP) clients into programs that assist with temporary and/or permanent housing, mental health, employment, and medical services. The Continuum of Care Navigator will support the culture of a community-based, client-centered, and trauma-responsive organization. The Continuum of Care Navigator will help the department build a network and database of community contacts, resources, and supportive volunteers and liaison closely with the Strategic Partnership department.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Respond to the referrals of new clients in a timely manner, including reviewing the intake form and assessment of the client’s need and preferences for programming services;
• Identify and present programming options for clients based on availability in the community and court requirements;
• Conduct necessary outreach or transport for clients in the community to ensure clients are adhering to treatment plans;
• Manage spreadsheets and submit any invoices for check requests if necessary;
• Work with the ACM case managers to create, monitor, and modify client treatment plans to ensure they meet the ongoing needs of clients;
• Review and monitor cases to ensure program engagement and compliance with release and/or program conditions;
• Establish and cultivate mutually respectful relationships with clients, SFPDP staff members, and community partners;
• Work collaboratively with ACM team members to meet departmental and agency goals;
• Attend and participate in client case conferences as well as ACM team and all staff meetings;
• Accurately document client progress in database by thorough case management reporting;
• Work to ensure all client related data is accurately captured in the information management system at all times;
• Adhere to the highest standards of professionalism in regards to ethics, values, and principles of case management;
• Adhere to all laws and regulations regarding HIPPA, confidentially, contractual agreements, ethics, and professional boundaries;
• Acquire and maintain all personal background clearances as directed by the Director of Programs;
• Punctuality and regular and reliable attendance as well as punctuality at all meetings, trainings, and other job-related appointments;
• Regularly exercise independent discretion and judgment;
• Perform other duties as directed, developed or assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY None.

Education and/or Experience: Must hold a four year degree in psychology, sociology, criminal justice, or a related field and two years’ experience as a case manager working with vulnerable populations; Experience working with high needs and high risk system-involved adults from diverse backgrounds is required. Knowledge of San Francisco community based service providers as well as familiarity with the Harm Reduction case management model is preferred.

Other Skills & Abilities: Able to work with little or no supervision under pressure. Ability to work independently and exercise discretion and good judgment. Ability to multitask. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. Ability to get along with, manage positively, and work cooperatively with others, showing good leadership skills. Knowledge of the functions and procedures of superior courts, of legal and human services agencies, such as Adult Probation, Social Services, Public Defender Offices, Police and Sheriff Departments including jail operations preferred.

Background Checks and/or Licensing Requirements: Criminal Background check by the SF Sheriff’s Department. Reference checks.

Compensation & Benefits Include:

• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, and life insurance
• 403(b) retirement plan
• Generous paid time off (23 vacation days, 14 holidays, floating birthday)