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Summary: To conduct diversion problem solving conversations at assessments for individuals that have requested emergency shelter. Help people immediately to identify alternative housing arrangements while coordinating referrals to community resources and assisting with access to financial assistance for those who qualify.
Why Work for SMOC?
- Paid Time Off: All full-time employees can accrue up to 3 weeks of vacation, and 2 weeks of sick time and are eligible for 12 paid holidays during their first year of employment.
- Employer-paid Life Insurance & AD&D and Long-Term Disability for full-time employees.
- Comprehensive Benefits Package including Medical Plans through Mass General Brigham with an HRA Employer cost-sharing program, Dental Plans with Orthodontic Coverage, and EyeMed Vision Insurance available to full-time employees.
- 403(B) Retirement Plan with a company match starting on day one for all full-time and part-time employees.
- Additional voluntary benefits including; Term and Whole Life Insurance, Accident Insurance, Critical Illness, Hospital indemnity, and Short-Term Disability.
- Flexible Spending Accounts, Dependent Care Accounts, Employee Assistance Program, Tuition Reimbursement and more.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Maintain knowledge of Coordinated Access Network/Homeless Response System.
- Maintain records in HMIS database.
- Provide motivational interviewing skills to fuel problem solving conversations.
- Network with community partners to maintain knowledge of community resources for basic needs, i.e. food pantries, clothing donations, etc.
- Network with community partners to maintain knowledge of mental health, behavioral health and physical health services, including substance abuse treatment.
- Attend Housing Case Management team meetings.
- Attend Professional Development to stay up to date on shelter diversion best practices.
- Assist individuals in understanding federal/state guidelines for rental subsidies, tenant rights and responsibilities as well as basic knowledge of housing laws.
- Assist with landlord mediation and/or conversations with family/friends to help individuals resolve their housing crisis.
- Maintain knowledge of application processes for state benefits.
- Communicate with local emergency shelters on bed availability when diversion is not possible.
Knowledge and Skill Requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree in a related field.
- Minimum of 2 years case management experience.
- Prior training and experience in Motivational Interviewing strongly preferred.
- Excellent computer/data entry skills.
- Ability to problem-solve in a fast-paced environment.
- Valid Driver’s license and reliable transportation.
Organizational Relationship:
- Directly reports to the Community Support Services Program Manager.
- Direct reports of this position are none.
Physical Requirement:
- Ability to drive.
- Ability to ascend and descend stairs.
Working Conditions: As part of the responsibilities of this position, the Diversion Specialist will have direct or incidental contact with clients served by SMOC in various programs funded or administered through the Executive Office of Health and Human Services. A successful background check is required. Some travel is required. Flexibility with hours is required as some meetings may occur after hours.
Monday through Friday: 9:00AM - 5:00PM. Includes a 1-hour unpaid lunch break.
35 Hours per week.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in a related field
- At least 2 years of case management experience
- Training and experience in Motivational Interviewing
- Excellent computer and data entry skills
- Ability to problem-solve in a fast-paced environment
- Valid driver's license and reliable transportation
- Successful background check
- Ability to drive and ascend and descend stairs
- Flexibility to work occasional after-hours meetings
What We Do
South Middlesex Opportunity Council (SMOC), founded in 1965 as part of the Federal War on Poverty, has evolved to meet a wider range of challenges that people in our communities face. Our four main areas of programming include: Behavioral Health Services | Comprehensive Housing Services | Employment and Education | Family and Nutrition. SMOC is a multi-service umbrella organization that works in the community to provide opportunities to enhance self-sufficiency. Headquartered in Framingham, Mass, the agency has expanded to meet housing needs of homeless and formerly homeless individuals in the greater Worcester region and became the Greater Worcester Housing Connection. We also are affiliated with the Open Pantry Community Services in Springfield to provide additional housing, food and supportive services throughout Western MA. Our mission is "To improve the quality of life of low-income and disadvantaged individuals and families by advocating for their needs and rights; providing services; educating the community; building a community of support; participating in coalitions with other advocates and searching for new resources and partnerships" SMOC programs apply best known practices in environments that are client-centered, strength-based and trauma-informed. To apply for our various positions, please follow this link www.smoc.org/opportunities.php
