Diversion and Early Intervention Specialist

Mission and Statement of Cooperation:

The mission of the Suncoast Partnership to End Homelessness (SPEH) is to prevent and end homelessness by uniting the communities of Manatee and Sarasota Counties through engagement and collaboration with business and civic leaders, service providers, faith-based organizations, advocates, concerned citizens, and people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. SPEH encourages and expects a high degree of cooperation and collaboration among its staff and stakeholders. The specific duties of each position require flexibility and cooperation to achieve organizational goals and objectives.

Summary:

The person in this position will be tasked with assessing and diverting individuals identified as at-risk or literally homeless from entering shelter and other homeless-related services using an evidence-informed tool to objectively determine the acuity of need and the services best designed to meet their needs.

Essential Job Functions:

• Conduct conversations using a trauma-informed approach and techniques such as motivational interviewing to assess individual's situations, challenges, and opportunities;
• Empower people through problem-solving conversations to identify alternative housing solutions to resolve their housing crisis as quickly as possible;
• Communicate effectively with people on the results of the assessment and the rationale for a proposed course of action (or inaction);
• Develop a budget and create goals toward stability and self-sufficiency with, as well as monitor progress towards those goals as applicable;
• Identify other needed services, make appropriate referrals to community partners and conduct follow-ups on outcome;
• Maintain paperwork and records of transactions of assessments, diversions, case plans, etc. in real time or as close as possible, including entering all data regarding individuals assessed into CSIS;
• Work with staff and the CoC to facilitate housing solutions for those experiencing homelessness through the Suncoast Housing Collaborative (SHC) initiative;
• Collaborate effectively and foster relationships with community partners;
• Uphold the values and advocate for the mission of the Suncoast Partnership; and
• Participate in all required training

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Bachelor’s degree in a Social Services/Human Services, or related field. Past experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• At least 18 months experience in a Human Services field such as advocacy or case management.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Must be able to work independently.
• Must work well under pressure.
• Must be flexible and able to multi-task.
• Must be able to work effectively with populations that have experienced vulnerability, trauma, economic poverty, incarceration, substance use, developmental delays, compromised mental wellness, brain injuries, literacy and numeracy issues, and/or other conditions or situations that have impacted housing stability.
• Must be solution-focused and organized in achieving objectives with all service users.
• Must have analytical, strategic, critical thinking skills for effective problem-solving.
• Must be able to motivate and organize self to complete tasks with service users, often in non-therapeutic environments.
• Ability to establish and maintain relationships with collaborative partners in a professional manner.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality in all aspects of the work environment.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Computer skills and data entry required.
• Must have reliable transportation, a valid driver’s license, and appropriate vehicle insurance.

Working Conditions:

• Work is performed in an office and within the community
• Street outreach may be required and may include a variety of environmental conditions including wooded, urban, and/or unsanitary areas.
• Travel throughout the Continuum of Care is required.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to read computer screens and printed documents.
• Ability to hear well enough to communicate with colleagues and stakeholders.
• Ability to speak the English language in an understandable manner.
• Ability to type, to write, and to use telephone.

Health, Vision, Dental

401K

Paid Time Off

Life Insurance

Short and Long Term Disability Insurance