Diversion Specialist

Company: Mercy Housing & Shelter Corp
Location: Hartford
Posted on: May 13, 2022

Job Description:

Community Housing AdvocatesAn Affiliate of Mercy Housing & Shelter Corp. and My Sisters' Place Job Title: Diversion Specialist Department: Diversion CenterReports to: Director of Programs - Diversion, Outreach and Rapid RehousingFLSA Status: Non-ExemptScheduled Work Times/Locations:Monday - Friday, 8:30AM - 4:30PM; flexibility for occasional nights and weekends when necessaryLocation: 117 Wethersfield Ave, Hartford CT Job Summary:The Diversion Specialist's primary role is to support individuals, youth and families who are experiencing homelessness, or are at imminent risk of becoming homeless. S/he will provide diversion services, community outreach and referrals to expand and complement programs already offered by the Meriden/Middletown/Wallingford Coordinated Access Network (MMW CAN).Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assess and evaluate client's risks and barriers to obtaining and maintaining stable housing based on the Greater Hartford Coordinated Access Network's criteria through assessments completed via telephone or face to face.
• Utilize a strengths-based and client-centered approach when conducting interviews to help clients identify strengths, successes, and resources that they can use to develop plans to move towards self-sufficiency and to retain/secure permanent housing and avoid having to enter emergency shelter
• Use conflict resolution and mediation skills to resolve an individual's or family's immediate housing crisis.
• Utilize community resources to link clients with self-sustaining sources of income, benefits, and other economic supports as well as professional resources to assist the client in reaching their goals.
• Coordinate appropriate linkages to available mainstream services (i.e., mental health services, addiction recovery programs, medical appointments, and employment resources) focusing on housing stability.
• Provide assistance for clients in budgeting, employment search, arranging childcare, locating permanent housing, managing medical issues, and addressing transportation and other needs.
• Ensure all documentation is completed properly and within required timelines; timely input of all data into databases as required.
• Maintain appropriate and professional relationships with partner agencies.
• Attend collaborative meetings with partner agencies that will assist in preventing and ending homelessness.
• Perform any other task that will assist the agency in carrying out its mission.Required Skills/Abilities:
  • Self-starter, able to work and make decisions independently.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills: strong ability to set boundaries with clients
  • Ability to collaborate with community organizations and Supervisor.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills including in virtual settings.
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Excellent time management skills: ability to prioritize tasks.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a can-do attitude.
  • Ability to lift boxes and other materials up to 20 pounds.
  • Ability to adapt to the needs of the organization and program requirements.Education and Experience:Bachelor's degree (B.A) from an accredited college or university, preferably in Social Work or a similar Human Service field is preferred. Have a familiarity with housing first, progressive engagement, and reality testing. Experience with conflict resolution and mediation. Two (2) years relevant work experience and demonstrated ability to provide effective services to clients required. Needs to be culturally competent across all populations. Bilingual a plus. Licenses and Certifications:Must have valid Connecticut driver's license and clean driving record with proof of automobile insurance.COVID-19 Vaccinations RequiredCompensation & Benefits:
    • $18-$21 per hour, based on experience plus generous incentive compensation plan
    • Community Housing Advocates provides a generous employee benefits package, including medical, dental, retirement, short- and long-term disability, and tuition reimbursement. Full-time employees receive 26 days of PTO (paid time off) per year, plus 12 paid holidays.Physical Demands:
      • The physical demands associated with the essential functions of this job are intermittent physical activity, such as walking, sitting and occasional lifting.
      • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.CHA, My Sisters' Place and Mercy Housing and Shelter Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. Monday - Friday, 8:30AM - 4:30PM; flexibility for occasional nights and weekends when necessaryPI176778750

Keywords: Mercy Housing & Shelter Corp, Hartford , Diversion Specialist, Other , Hartford, Connecticut