
Housing Specialist (Youth Resource Team (YRT)
- Santa Monica, CA
- Permanent
- Full-time
- Provide housing supportive services to individuals experiencing homelessness in SPA 5.
- Develop and maintain strong ties to the community, law enforcement, the Coordinated Entry System (CES), and other homeless service providers.
- Link clients to appropriate bridge/interim housing programs and assist them in completing required paperwork to enroll them in permanent housing-related programs.
- Apply a "whatever it takes" approach to advocate for youth and families and ensure they are connected to the services they need for success and well-being.
- Provide case management to meet the needs of each individual.
- Build trust and rapport with individuals experiencing homelessness. Assess homeless individuals utilizing the Vulnerability Index (VI) SPDAT.
- Link clients to physical health, mental health, and other supportive services. Assist clients to enroll in mainstream benefits and obtain identification (i.e. California Driver’s License, Social Security Card).
- Keep highly organized files for each client and enter appropriate data into the electronic health records (Exym) and/or homeless management information system identified.
- Provide transportation assistance as needed.
- Participate in SPA 5 case conferencing meetings and other community meetings.
- Participate in regular Santa Monica Youth Resource Team meetings as well as agency and/or funders.
- Must be highly motivated and a self-starter. The ability to communicate with and relate to a diverse group of people including clients, community, and other staff. Must have excellent organizational skills and the capability to work in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong knowledge of homeless services and resources. Demonstrated knowledge and experience with Harm Reduction, Motivational Interviewing, Critical Time Intervention, and Housing First.
- At least one year experience providing services to highly vulnerable populations.
- Experience with working with the TAY population is preferred.
- Experience with housing individuals is preferred.
- Degree from an accredited college or university in social work, human services or a related field; a combination of education and experience may be substituted.
- This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.
- Proficiency in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
- Ability to use widely supported internet browsers.
- Valid California Class C Driver License in order to meet clients in the field.
- Valid automobile liability insurance.
- To and from work site(s) and to off-site meetings and trainings as needed