Diversion Specialist - GWHC

Company: South Middlesex Opportunity Council, Inc.
Location: Worcester
Posted on: November 14, 2023

Job Description:

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process. Diversion Specialist - GWHC Full Time Worcester, MA 25 Queen Street, Worcester, MA, US 10 days ago Requisition ID: 2965 Salary Range: $22.00 To 22.00 Hourly SUMMARYTo conduct diversion problem-solving conversations at assessments for individuals that have requested emergency shelter through the Greater Worcester Housing Connection. Assist individuals to immediately identify alternative housing arrangements while coordinating referrals to community resources and access to financial assistance for those who qualify. Collaborate closely with GWHC direct care staff, case managers, property managers, and all program managers to develop strategies and viable options to divert individuals from entering emergency shelter.PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Maintain knowledge of Coordinated Assessment Network and local Homeless Response System.
• Track activity and records in the Homeless Management Information Systems (HMIS) database.
• Provide motivational interviewing skills to fuel problem solving conversation.
• Collaborate with community partners to build and maintain knowledge of resources for basic needs, i.e. food pantries, clothing donations, etc.
• Network with community partners to maintain knowledge of mental health, behavioral health and physical health services, including substance use disorder treatment options.
• Attend weekly GWHC team meetings where case managers and housing property managers discuss vacancies and identify potential candidates for permanent housing.
• Stay up to date on local and national best practices for shelter diversion.
• Provide support so that individuals understand federal/state guidelines for rental subsidies, tenant rights and responsibilities as well as basic knowledge of housing law.
• Assist with landlord mediation and/or conversations with family/friends in an effort to resolve individuals' housing crisis.
• Familiarity with application processes for state benefits. -
• Communicate with local emergency shelters on bed availability when diversion is not possible.KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS
  • Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent experience.
  • Minimum of 5 years case management experience.
  • Prior training and experience in Motivational Interviewing are strongly preferred.
  • Ability to problem-solve in a fast-paced environment.
  • Clear verbal and written communication skills
  • Judgement skills that enable you to make effective decisions in critical situations or dilemmas.
  • Valid Driver's license and reliable transportation.PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
    • Ability to drive.
    • Ability to ascend and descend stairs.ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIP
      • Directly reports to the Coordinated Assessment Supervisor, GWHC and Assistant Director.
      • Direct reports of this position are none.WORKING CONDITIONSAs part of the responsibilities of this position, the Diversion Specialist will have direct or incidental contact with clients served by SMOC in various programs funded or administered through the Executive Office of Health and Human Services. A successful background check is required. Some travel is required. Flexibility with hours is required as some meetings may occur after hours.We are an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace
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Keywords: South Middlesex Opportunity Council, Inc., Worcester , Diversion Specialist - GWHC, Other , Worcester, Massachusetts