Direct Care Worker/ Guests Support Specialist

The Mission of the Homeless Services Bureau is to improve the quality of life of Boston's homelessness citizens by providing emergency shelter, social services, and housing searching services. We strive to affirm the dignity and human rights of each and every person that we serve. Homeless Services partners with governmental agencies, private homeless services providers, and homeless advocates to seek solutions to end homelessness. The Homeless Services Bureau is committed to helping individuals with any challenges that may have led to homelessness. We offer a broad range of services and over 600 beds in the City of Boston. We recognize that each homeless individual has his or her own story.

Duties

• Serve as part of the service and operation team. Meeting individuals "where they are at" and providing non-judgmental, non-coercive services, and resources to individuals.
• Provide a safe and supportive environment for those experiencing homelessness. Ensure overall safety of clients and environment.
• Develop positive professional relationships with clients to facilitate care.
• Performs rounds throughout the shelter as needed. Searches guests for contraband upon arrival in shelter.
• Intervenes to de-escalate conflict situations, anticipating potential conflict situations and intervening prior to crisis.
• Conducts formal and informal assessment to assess needs and make appropriate referrals to internal and external programs. Develops positive professional relationships with guests to facilitate care.
• Works collaboratively with other HSB and BPHC programs and departments
• Maintains professional relationships and conduct with all internal and external partners
• Maintains stable environment by ensuring resident compliance with program rules and policies
• Collect and enter data into ETO or other HMIS.
• Demonstrates knowledge of trauma informed care.
• Maintain confidentiality and standards of ethical practice
• Assists in overseeing and facilitation of support group meetings, NA/AA meetings, life skills and other training for guests.
• Distribute harm reduction materials and supplies according to HSB policy.
• Monitors and serves meals, coordinates food and other supplies, and supervises and assist with clean up after meals if needed. Monitors and distributes linen and clothing supplies for guests.
• Attends required meetings and training sessions.
• Provides phone coverage as necessary.
• Transports clients via program van.
• Performs other duties as required.
• Associate of Science Degree OR High School Diploma / GED and 1 year of related experience.
• Experience working with those experiencing mental health or substance use disorders preferred.
• Experience working with diverse ethnic, racial, and low-income populations required.
• Homeless Services is a 24-hour operation providing essential services: punctuality, professionalism and respect for guests and staff are expected.
• Able to follow directions and work harmoniously with staff and guests.
• Computer literacy preferred. Strong written and verbal skills required.
• Bi-Lingual/Spanish, Portuguese, Haitian Creole, or Cape Verdean Creole speaking preferred
• Valid MA driver's license and good driving record required.