Job Description
Job Description
***$2,000 SIGN ON BONUS***
Pathways to Housing DC (Pathways DC) is a nationally recognized, mission-driven nonprofit committed to ending homelessness among individuals facing serious mental illnesses, co-occurring substance use disorders, and chronic health conditions in the Nation’s Capital. As a trailblazer of the Housing First model, we prioritize providing housing and supportive services without preconditions, ensuring every individual receives care grounded in dignity, respect, and empowerment.
The DHS Homeless Outreach Specialist plays a crucial role on the Homeless Services Team at Pathways DC, leading efforts to engage and support individuals experiencing homelessness. This position is central to executing a targeted, comprehensive outreach strategy for those living on the streets within our designated outreach clusters. The Specialist’s work is hands-on and community-centric, requiring adaptability to varied environments and weather conditions while balancing independent initiative with strong teamwork and coordination.
In this position, about 75% of your time will focus on providing essential, direct support to individuals living without shelter or in community shelters. The role requires flexibility, with an 8-hour shift generally scheduled between 8 am and 5 pm, Monday to Friday, and the ability to adapt to early mornings, late nights, and weekends based on community needs. Candidates must also commit to one late-night shift each week and be available for additional shifts during hypothermia alerts, demonstrating our dedication to proactive, compassionate outreach during late hours. Late-night shifts are scheduled from 12:30 pm to 9 pm outside hypothermia season, and from 2:30 pm to 11 pm during hypothermia alerts.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Ensure that client notes are documented and entered into the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) within 48 hours of the client engagement or collateral contact.
- Conduct direct outreach and engagement in the field, providing light touch interactions as appropriate and delivering intensive case management services for a caseload of 30 individuals.
- Proactively initiate non-judgmental conversations, offer basic items such as clothing and hygiene articles, and maintain a consistent presence for those in need.
- Assist clients in navigating and applying for mainstream benefits including Medicaid, SNAP, Social Security Disability, and other critical programs; identify and connect clients with appropriate housing, medical, and mental health resources through thorough, in-depth referrals.
- Collaborate with external agencies that provide services to participants, facilitate connections with housing service providers, and assist with the collection and storage of client documentation.
- Develop and update Service Plans in HMIS for each individual engaged in case management, ensuring the timely completion of assessments and required documentation.
- Provide appropriate referrals to medical and behavioral health service providers, establishing and maintaining professional relationships with key stakeholders.
- Work collaboratively with housing case managers to ensure seamless transitions for clients matched to housing.
- Perform additional duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Exceptional communication skills, both written & verbal, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and empathetically to diverse audiences.
- Proficiency in database management and a strong command of various computer applications, such as Microsoft Office Suite, HMIS, and others.
- Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, Public Health, or a related field, OR equivalent professional experience demonstrating a deep understanding of the challenges faced by vulnerable populations.
- A minimum of 2 years of direct experience in case management or a related role within homeless services, mental health, and/or substance abuse support for vulnerable populations.
- Demonstrate a cultural competency and a proven commitment to sensitivity when working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and with varying needs.