SCOPE OF WORK: Under the general direction of the Executive Director, this person is responsible for providing comprehensive case management both in the Oasis Teen Shelter and street outreach services in CLP’s catchment area.
This person must have the ability to perform an immediate crisis assessment when encountering potential homeless youth on the street and respond accordingly.
The Outreach Independent Living Specialist plays a critical role in engaging runaway, homeless, and street-involved youth under age 18, providing crisis intervention, basic needs support, and connection to shelter and supportive services. This position supports both community-based and school-based outreach to identify and assist youth who are at risk of or currently experiencing homelessness. The Outreach Independent Living Specialist builds trusting relationships, offers mobile and in-person services, and ensures youth are aware of and connected to the RHY Basic Center program and other resources.
The Outreach Independent Living Specialist will be responsible for all aspects of their assigned case load, including meeting with clients on a regular basis both in the field and in the office, and ensuring that all files and reports are complete and up to date. Intensively work with clients as they move through the program continuum by conducting comprehensive assessments to identify
SUMMARY OF ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
Youth Engagement:
- Ensure effective day-to-day case management of the Oasis Teen Shelter and Support clients
- Create an inviting atmosphere so that each and every youth entering Oasis feels valued
- Provide ongoing interaction and build trusting relationships with youth
- Assist youth with supportive services, including homework, life skills, and meal preparation
- Design and implement activities for the youth living in the teen shelter and those visiting the teen drop-in center to promote independent living
- Conduct regular street- and community-based outreach to identify and engage youth experiencing homelessness or unstable housing.
- Build rapport with youth using trauma-informed, harm reduction, and positive youth development approaches.
- Provide immediate support, including food, hygiene supplies, clothing, and transportation as needed.
School & Community Presence:
- Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with local schools, youth- serving agencies, community centers, and law enforcement to increase referrals and program visibility.
- Provide ongoing interaction and build trusting relationships with youth
- Provide regular outreach in local schools (in partnership with school staff) to support youth who are unstably housed or at risk of homelessness.
Service Coordination:
- Screen youth for eligibility and refer to the Oasis shelter and/or other services such as counseling, health care, legal aid, and education programs.
- Assist in crisis response and safety planning, including de-escalation and emergency referrals when needed.
- Support youth in developing short-term goals and identifying safe housing options.
- Participate in technical assistance, monitoring, and required DHHS training
- Complete program documentation and required reporting, ensuring that programs meet grant and contractual requirements
Documentation & Compliance:
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation in program records and RHY-HMIS database.
- Track outreach activities, youth contacts, referrals, and outcomes in accordance with RHY grant requirements and agency policy.
- Maintain strict confidentiality and comply with HIPAA, FERPA, and agency protocols.
Program Support:
- Attend staff meetings, case consultations, and required trainings.
- Assist with program events, community education efforts, and youth input initiatives.
- Coordinate with shelter staff for transitions into care when appropriate
Pay: $18.00 - $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
