JOB SUMMARY

As a primary function of the Hennepin Shelter Connect collaboration in Hennepin County, provide shelter diversion services to families, youth and singles seeking emergency shelter. Conduct initial screenings, crisis stabilization services, and diversion eligibility assessments. Divert eligible families, youth and singles who would otherwise enter shelter to alternative housing arrangements, and if necessary, connect them with services and financial assistance to help them return to permanent housing. Work creatively and expediently to identify all viable solutions; conduct landlord negotiations, conflict resolution, housing search and linkages to mainstream services. Maintain productive relationships with internal and external parties for the purpose of providing quality client services. Responsible for staying current on housing subsidies and community resources, shelter openings and eligibility, administering financial assistance, and tracking data and reporting. Keep abreast of changes in the field and research new methods of service delivery. This position is an essential component of the Hennepin Shelter Connect collaboration communication processes and program evaluation.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

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  Provide shelter diversion services to families, youth and singles seeking emergency shelter: Conduct initial screening, crisis intervention/referral, and diversion assessments; work with individual and families on identifying viable diversion strategies to prevent shelter entrance
• Implement diversion plans that may include landlord/tenant negotiations, conflict resolution, and making connections to a wide variety of community services such as childcare or car repair.
• Work closely and collaboratively with Hennepin Shelter Connect collaborative partners to connect families to mainstream resources.
• Develop and maintain productive relationships with all collaborative partners including, shelter access points, shelters, outreach workers, school district representatives, domestic violence shelters, 211, youth and veterans Services, and homeless prevention services to ensure households receive the correct type of service.
• Ensure data tracking requirements are met including caller information and client and program information. Provide reports as assigned.
• Maintain a resource referral database and stay well informed about community resources and various service providers as well as referral procedures.
• Administer financial assistance for eligible households for damage deposits, rent and utility bills, etc. and prepare relevant correspondence and forms as necessary
• Work with Program Manager on program evaluation and goals
• Ensure the program significantly and consistently contributes to the positive community culture that promotes learning, diversity, problem solving, resourcefulness, accountability and excellence in serving households experiencing homelessness.
• Represent Catholic Charities at community events as assigned
• Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS/TECHNICAL EXPERTISE

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  Post-secondary education required.
• Two (2) years relevant experience.
• Working knowledge of Hennepin County community resources, homeless response system, system navigation and assisting people with benefit and program eligibility
• Experience conducting intake and assessment processes
• Experience with landlord/tenant mediation and conflict resolution required
• Demonstrated skill in relationship building including excellent interpersonal communication skills both written and verbal required; ability to speak a second language preferred
• Knowledgeable about housing programs and city regulations including landlord/tenant law and foreclosure processes
• Excellent computer skills including experience with HMIS and Microsoft Office products
• Familiar with coordinated assessment, shelter services and shelter diversion services preferred
• Ability to work with diverse and/or low income populations, including those who may be experiencing homelessness, unstable housing, and/or mental illness required.