Job Title: Homeless Housing Program Outreach Specialist
Department: Homeless Housing Program (HHP)
Location: Pierce County, WA
Reports To: Outreach Manager/Program Director
attached
Job Summary:
The Homeless Housing Program Outreach Specialist is responsible for engaging individuals and families experiencing homelessness and connecting them with housing, social services, and supportive resources. This role involves conducting street outreach, building relationships with unhoused individuals, assessing needs, and providing direct assistance to help them transition into stable housing. The Outreach Specialist will work closely with case managers, service providers, and community partners to ensure comprehensive support for clients.
Key Responsibilities:
Street Outreach & Engagement:
- Conduct regular outreach in encampments, shelters, and other locations where unhoused individuals congregate.
- Build trust with individuals experiencing homelessness through consistent and compassionate engagement.
- Provide basic needs such as food, hygiene kits, blankets, and transportation assistance.
- Assess client needs and connect them with appropriate housing programs and social services.
- Navigate and engage with individuals in diverse locations, including wooded areas, under bridges, and other hard-to-reach places.
Client Support & Case Coordination:
- Assist individuals in obtaining identification, benefits, and necessary documentation for housing applications.
- Refer clients to emergency shelters, transitional housing, and permanent housing programs.
- Work closely with case managers to ensure follow-up and support for individuals in their housing journey.
- Advocate for clients when working with landlords, healthcare providers, and social service agencies.
Collaboration & Community Partnerships:
- Build relationships with local service providers, healthcare agencies, and law enforcement to enhance service coordination.
- Participate in multi-agency case conferencing and outreach team meetings.
- Represent the Homeless Housing Program at community meetings, events, and advocacy efforts.
Data Collection & Reporting:
- Maintain accurate records of client interactions, referrals, and services provided.
- Enter data into Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) or other required databases.
- Assist in compiling reports on outreach efforts and program outcomes.
Qualifications & Requirements:
Education & Experience:
- High school diploma or GED required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in social work, human services, or a related field preferred.
- At least 1-2 years of experience in homeless services, outreach, or a related field.
- Experience working with vulnerable and diverse populations, including individuals with mental health and substance use challenges.
Skills & Competencies:
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage diverse populations.
- Knowledge of trauma-informed care, harm reduction, and housing-first principles.(Training Provided)
- Ability to de-escalate crises and handle difficult situations with professionalism. .(Training Provided)
- Strong organizational and documentation skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and data management systems.
Physical & Environmental Requirements:
- Ability to walk long distances(1-2 miles typically with breaks), hike through rough, uneven terrain, and navigate wooded areas, encampments, and urban settings.
- Willingness to work in all weather conditions, including rain, cold, and extreme heat.
- Comfortable working in unsheltered environments, including under bridges and in remote locations.
Other Requirements:
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.
- Ability to pass a background check as required by program funding sources.