Shelter - Case Worker

Company Overview :

As a long-time leader in Connecticut, New Reach hopes to now chart a new path by fundamentally shifting how our community manages and responds to the homelessness and housing insecurity crises. With increased focus on preventing evictions and providing long-term stability for those who are establishing their independence, we believe a true systems change is possible. We imagine a world where the need for shelter is minimal because individuals and families are able to stay in their homes instead of being evicted and those who are struggling to make ends meet can get the help, they need to maintain stability. We inspire lasting independence for all people affected by homelessness and poverty through a continuum of housing and support, using the most innovative, progressive, equitable and inclusive methods.

Primary Purpose :

The Case Worker will be responsible for providing support and case management duties to both individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness and have mental health and / or substance use disorders.

Essential Functions :

• Act as a community liaison for the residents by working closely with other community agencies by coordinating referrals, admissions, discharges, or terminations.
• Assist Program Manager with application of new referrals to program.
• Conducts intakes as assigned, including completion of all relevant documentation associated with program requirements.
• Meet with and interview every new resident of the shelter to determine the level of housing advocacy and need.
• Assist clients in completing relevant community and agency housing applications.
• Assist in the location of housing which includes inspection of prospective units to housing meets with the state, federal and local housing regulations.
• Assist clients in obtaining rental subsidies and security deposits.
• Maintains on-going client files, including housing plans, correspondence and case notes.
• Assist residents in the leasing process, including reviewing leases, educating tenants on their rights and fair housing laws.
• Disseminate community housing information to all residents.
• Provide landlord-tenant mediation services or provide such services as necessary for current and past clients.
• Assist clients in obtaining rental subsidies and security deposits.
• Maintains on-going client files, including housing plans, correspondence and case notes.
• Assist residents in identifying specific goals including searching for permanent housing, employment, childcare or other service providers.
• Work directly with clients who have ADL needs skill development.
• Scheduling weekly house meetings with other service providers that may have information beneficial to the needs and interests of the residents.
• Maintain open communication with the Case Management team, relaying all issues and pertinent information.
• Coordination of activities related to Homeless Families Transition Collaborative : Transitional Housing, Vocational Training.
• Maintain resident statistics and any other reporting as directed by Clinical Program Manager.
• Attend regularly scheduled supervision, team, shelter, or staff meetings as requested.
• Assist with special projects and complete other duties as assigned.
• Mandated reported for child abuse.
• Rotation of evenings and weekend on call responsibilities

Qualifications :

Associates Degree plus three years human service experience. Bachelor's preferred.

Desire to promote equal access and opportunity for homeless persons and persons with HIV / AIDS or other disabilities.

Experience in housing, housing law, substance abuse, mental illness and other areas as they lend themselves to successfully enhance this program.

Bilingual / Bicultural preferred.

Highly motivated, creative with excellent interpersonal skills.

Ability to provide comprehensive, intensive services to the homeless.

Strong advocacy and computer skills.

Ability to work with a group or independent.

Access to reliable transportation.

Expectations :

Have a solutions-based approach to presented problems.

Be supportive, engaging and encouraging to peers and staff.

Be adaptable to change and willing to take on more responsibility.

Maintain strict confidentiality concerning any client's or employees' personal information, living information, and / or HIV status

Provides a commitment to the values of New Reach : Professionalism, Integrity, Compassion and Initiative

Adheres to all New Reach's Policies and Procedures

Physical Demands :