Position Summary

The homeless outreach worker shall provide outreach and interim case management for homeless persons with possible persistent mental illness, who may also suffer from co-occurring substance abuse. Outreach is the initial and most critical step in connecting or reconnecting homeless persons who may suffer from severe and persistent mental illness who are not currently engaged in treatment, with appropriate services. The ideal candidate may have the experience to outreach the homeless members and to proactively engage with referring to appropriate programs. Work is primarily intellectual in nature and requires the consistent exercise of discretion and judgment; requires the ability to function independently in the assessment of suicidality/homicidal or other risk assessment.

Position Qualifications

Minimum Education 1) HS diploma or GED or AA PLUS CSAC or 2) HS diploma or GED or AA PLUS. 3) Required References: Three verified professional references attesting to the individual's skills, ability & competency to meet the position duties and responsibilities.

Minimum Field-of-Expertise Computer proficiency in various software.

Required Certification/Registration Basic Life Support: (renew upon its expiration) CPR

• First Aid (will train and certify)
• CPI (will train and certify)
• Valid Driver's License
• Current Auto Registration
• Current Safety Check
• Current Auto Insurance

Preferred Experience Clinical skill and experience to assess and provide stabilization and support for family members and clients at risk for suicide/homicide or experiencing other crisis situations

Unit Specific Competencies Refer to attached Performance Standards/Indicators. Participates and maintains competencies/skills required for the position.

Work Conditions:

Hours of Work The hours of work are determined by both shifts worked and according to the needs of the clients to whom they are providing service. Thus, the Outreach Worker independently collaborates with Team Leader and schedules work hours and time off.

Equipment Used Personal computer with a variety of software applications, printer, fax machine, modem, cellular phone, multi-line telephone, VCR, TV, tape recorder and vehicle.

Working Environment Community-based services; provides crisis services in the community wherever the client is located;

Exposure to infectious disease is a significant risk. The noise level in the environment is usually moderate.

Mental Demands Work is primarily intellectual in nature and requires the consistent exercise of discretion and judgment; requires the ability to function independently in the assessment of suicidality/homicidal or other risk assessment. Ability to independently respond effectively to the varied needs and demands of clients, families/significant others, staff, physicians, and other multidisciplinary team members. Harnesses the active involvement of all team members in taking ownership of aspects of program development, operations, staff/client education, and quality assurance activities.

Special Demands Must have a strong commitment to the right and ability of each person with a severe and persistent mental illness to live in normal community residences, work in market jobs, and have access to helpful, adequate, competent, and continuous supports and services.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to assist with direct client care; ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing in English is essential;
• Frequent reading of printed materials is essential;
• Listening skills necessary to effectively respond to associates, physicians, and clients;
• Occasional periods presenting before a class or group

Ages of Clients Served This job requires the employee to be responsible to individuals over the age of 18, however, family members and/or significant others, as well as relatives living in the household, may vary across all age groups. The treatment of clients should reflect an understanding of the developmental needs and range of treatment needs for each client.

Homeless Outreach Worker

Duties &

Responsibilities__________________________________________________________

Position Accountability & Performance Criteria

A. Essential Functions

• Demonstrates a welcoming, empathic and integrated approach towards all consumers on the team

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  Provide outreach (weekly or as needed) for the homeless population.

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  Acts as liaison and consult with community agencies and families to maintain coordination in the crisis management process

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  Educate and support clients' families, and advocate for clients' rights and preferences

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  Document client progress to maintain a permanent record of client activity according to established methods and procedures

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  Provide ongoing assessment and response to crisis management

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  Provide transportation when necessary to clients
• Provide linkage as appropriate to providers of case management, treatment, nutritional education, housing placement, money management skills, transportation options

• Provide support, advocacy, linkage and coordination of services as needed

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  Attends team meetings on a regular basis

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  Demonstrates ability to work as a team player by working with other members of the crisis team, assisting other team members as needed

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  Provides required documentation in a timely manner

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  Function independently as well as in collaboration with other members of the CBCM team as needed

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  Comply with supervision requirements of once a month by your team leader.

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  Comply with the training requirements and receive yearly substance abuse and dual diagnosis training.

Homeless Outreach Worker

Duties &

Responsibilities__________________________________________________________

Position Accountability & Performance Criteria

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  Additional Duties

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  Assists with Quality Improvement development and monitoring
• Provides assistance with conflict resolution as necessary
• Document within 24 hours of providing services.
• Prepare written or electronic reports as requested
• Willingly performs other duties/responsibilities as requested

The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by an employee in this classification. It is not to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory, or all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications of employees assigned to this job. Management has the right to add to, revise, or delete information in this description. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.