Support Specialist

Overview

Title: Support Specialist

Reports to: Program Director

Location: Vagabond Inn, 3101 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90007

Schedule: Saturday-Monday, 7:00 am - 3:30 pm

Status: Part-Time, Non-Exempt (Hourly), Non-Management

Summary

A support specialist will act as the first point of contact for all immediate client needs and requests, such as phone use, linens, water, laundry schedule, etc. They will respond to clients' needs (in a trauma-informed care scope) and assist with other tasks given to support the shelter and other staff members. A support specialist's role is vital to the success and support of the clients and the shelter itself.

• Act as the first point-of-contact for all immediate client needs and requests, such as phone use, linens, water, etc.
• Monitor and oversee the floor, including communal areas, patios, bathrooms, dorms, and showers, ensuring program guidelines are upheld and that the physical site is well-maintained and safe, including general cleaning duties
• Be visible on the floor at all times and actively engage and welcome clients
• Conduct regular, thorough walk-throughs of the facility
• Create a supportive environment to ensure client progress towards stability
• Attend relevant staff meetings, trainings, and retreats as scheduled
• Oversee client cubicle/bed area maintenance in a trauma-informed manner
• Facilitate client engagement activities, such as groups or other activities
• Complete incident reports, update shift logs, and document in HMIS, as needed, and email relevant documents/updates before the end of each shift
• Develop effective, trusting relationships with clients and use a client-centered approach that includes motivational interviewing, harm reduction, and trauma-informed care
• Intervene during crises to actively de-escalate situations, with client and staff safety in mind, using non-violent communication skills
• Work as part of a team to provide comprehensive, integrated care to individuals experiencing homelessness, mental illness, and substance addiction
• Communicate effectively and promptly, with management, peers, and clients
• Maintain client confidentiality at all times, while following agency, state, and HIPAA laws
• Other duties as assigned

• High school/GED degree
• Minimum one (1) year of experience in related work
• Possess effective customer service skills and the ability to handle difficult situations
• Ability to work independently and think critically
• Ability to communicate in a language other than English is strongly preferred, but not required
• Ability to act professionally regardless of circumstances
• Commitment to improving the community through empowerment and dignity
• Familiarity with non-violent crisis intervention
• Familiarity with issues faced by the population served
• Ability to self-motivate and to appropriately organize and motivate others
• Computer literate; able to use a computerized database system for information management
• Ability to work as a team member
• Able to obtain and maintain Food Handlers, CPR, and first aid certification
• Demonstrate an ability to take initiative towards continued professional development
• and sit throughout the day.

The People Concern is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to non-discrimination in employment. We select the most qualified individual for the job based on job-related qualifications regardless of race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, disability, ancestry, marital status, credit history, sexual orientation, arrest and court record, genetic information, veteran status or any other status protected by federal, state, or other applicable laws.

The People Concern empowers the most vulnerable among us to rebuild their lives. One of Los Angeles County's largest social services agencies, The People Concern was formed in 2016 in a merger of two trusted social service organizations based in Los Angeles County, OPCC and Lamp Community. Informed by more than fifty-eight years of work in the community, The People Concern is a leading provider of, and advocate for, evidence-based solutions to the multi-faceted challenges inherent in homelessness and domestic violence.

With compassion and profound respect for those we serve, we provide a fully integrated system of care - including outreach, interim housing, mental and medical health care, substance abuse services, domestic violence services, life skills &…