Advocate/Case Manager Crisis Intervention Program

Position Summary: Advocates in the Crisis Intervention Program provide direct services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness, households at risk of losing their homes, or those who have questions about housing programs or entitlements. Advocates help clients calling our hotline or who walk into our offices to meet immediate needs including access to and maintenance of shelter; information about individual rights and advocacy to ensure they are upheld; receipt of public benefits and entitlements; to obtain health or mental health services; and provide guidance and assistance with the housing search and move-in process. 

Advocates work in a team environment within the Crisis Intervention Department and report directly to the Program Director, in addition to receiving regular supervision from the Senior Director of Crisis Services. Advocates perform job duties consistent with the mission and goals of the Coalition for the Homeless and relevant funding sources. 

Duties and Responsibilities

The Advocate shall:

1. provide direct services to clients who call our Crisis Intervention hotline, as well as clients who walk into the Crisis Intervention Program, including but not limited to: referrals for immediate needs, advocacy in order to access shelter, housing assistance, food and clothing, benefits, employment or educational training, health, mental health, and details regarding client’s rights;

2. develop and maintain working knowledge of relevant social services systems/agencies, including shelter intake, rules and guidelines, housing programs and procedures, as well as benefits and entitlements programs;

3. inform and support clients in the process of advocating for their shelter rights and benefits;

4. maintain accurate and proper record documentation using the ETO computer database and ensure that client files and case notes are up to date;

5. alert Program Director and/or Senior Director of Crisis Services regarding client emergencies and assist in efforts to promptly deliver appropriate services;

6. obtain regular guidance and direction from the Program Director, as well as regular supervision from the Senior Director of Crisis Services to review clinical issues and advocacy trends and concerns, among other matters;

7. participate in weekly and bi-weekly staff meetings, as well as training and staff development and orientation activities;

8. perform all other duties as may be assigned by the Program Director/Senior Director of Crisis Services.

Requirements

AA/AS in human services or health discipline required (or a GED/High School Diploma and at least four years of relevant work experience in the social service field). BA/BS in social work, human services or health discipline strongly preferred. 

Prior client advocacy, case management especially with underserved communities or households experiencing homelessness and those with disabilities are strongly desired. Strong communication skills required. Prior experience in client advocacy settings desirable. Spanish or second language fluency strongly preferred.

REPORTS TO: Crisis Intervention Program Director / Senior Director of Crisis Services