Advocate-Mental Health

Position: HOUSING ADVOCATE-MENTAL HEALTH
2
- Positions

Reports to:

Homeless Program Coord Class Code: 4433

Pay grade: 505 FLSA:
Non-exempt

Hourly Wage: $25.05

NATURE OF WORK

Performs technical work of some difficulty in the operation of the Community Services Division housing advocacy programs within the Human Services Department, which targets the low-income, disadvantaged population or others in need of housing related services. Work involves a variety of tasks which may include case management, forms processing, assessment, referral, counseling, outreach, inspection, investigation, community relations, public information and advocacy.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES

Work involves responsibility for performing a variety of intake, case management, forms processing, assessment, referral, counseling, outreach, inspection, investigation, public information, advocacy and other tasks, and for the conduct of elemental program management responsibilities including program planning, monitoring, reporting and basic evaluation. Work is characterized by considerable contact with clients, other public agencies, community organizations, and the public. Work is performed independently within a structured framework of applicable policies, procedures, rules, and regulations related to the area of assignment.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (These essential duties are only illustrative.)

Works directly with households experiencing homelessness to address housing and homelessness crisis.

Meets those who are experiencing homelessness where they are and works to provide the appropriate housing intervention determined by each household's unique level of need, with the goal of getting everyone housed.

Works with unsheltered individuals who are experiencing significant mental health and/or addiction issues.

Screens households for eligibility, having conversations with households to explore creative alternative housing options, prioritizing households, case management, and matching/referral to appropriate housing interventions.

Maintains quality data on "By-Name List" and provides monthly reports and data to management.

Problem solves with others currently experiencing homelessness to build stability and navigate disproportionate access to resources and housing.

Identifies and places unsheltered participants into temporary housing with the goal of getting them into permanent housing as soon as possible.

Assists participants in housing searches, completing applications, and negotiating with landlords.

Works with landlords and management companies to develop a knowledge of available housing stock and maintain a current listing. Develops strong knowledge of affordable housing sites and housing subsidies.

Navigates a variety of databases and computer programs including HMIS, Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Google Docs.

Establishes and maintains files, records and other information related to assigned program; screens, processes and tracks client information; documents program procedures and information; and performs basic calculations.

Works with partner agencies to streamline services or determine proper interventions for clientele.

Updates, tracks, and reports data on a monthly basis or "as-needed"; can create graphs, charts, or other "visualizations".

Attends meetings and conferences; provides public information relative to program activities and data in response to local stakeholders.

Transports clients to appointments as required by the position.

Maintains reasonable and predictable attendance.

Other related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Works under the general supervision of a Homeless Program Coordinator, who allows some latitude and independence in carrying out tasks and assignments to completion. Work is reviewed occasionally for timely accomplishments of tasks, for overall results achieved, and the degree to which the work meets the needs of the client served.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

Supervision is not a responsibility of positions of this class. Employees may provide training in operational procedures, orient new employees, or assist in resolving unusual or difficult problems.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Some work is performed in an office setting but the majority will be in the field, and involves traveling throughout the city, and Winnebago and Boone counties. Work activities may also involve attending meetings, conferences, and training that involves out-of-town travel.

SUCCESS FACTORS

Some knowledge of program management principles and techniques.

Knowledge of laws, codes, ordinances, procedures, rules, regulations, and guidelines pertaining to the assigned program area.

Knowledge of the mission, objectives, and available resources, relative to the assigned program.

Knowledge of community agencies and services that can be used as referrals, especially services for mentally ill/addicted individuals and housing providers.

Ability to interpret and explain program information to others and to follow procedures and regulations.

Ability to complete and process forms, checklists, and reports…