Resident Advocate-Bernal Day (Tues-Sat) (88892)

Description

Position: Resident Advocate – Bernal

Reports to: Program Manager

Location: EIH Bernal, San Jose

Type: Non-Exempt

Compensation: $28.11/ Hourly

ABOUT HOMEFIRST

Established in 1980, HomeFirst™ is a nonprofit organization passionately working to end homelessness. We serve the Bay Area community through low-barrier programming and systems leadership – meeting each person where they are by offering support and resources that address immediate and long-term housing needs. With nearly 45 years of experience, we view housing as a fundamental human right and understand that solving homelessness requires a collaborative effort.

OUR VALUES

Kindness: We act with empathy toward others.
Passion: We ignite change to fulfill our mission.
Excellence: We deliver exceptional service to our communities.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Emergency Interim Housing (EIH), Bernal Program is a housing-focused, low-barrier, and harm-reduction program designed to serve individuals experiencing homelessness within the City of San Jose. EIH Bernal program is an adult-only, referral-based program that provides onsite comprehensive support services. The goal of EIH Bernal is to assist all program participants with transition from emergency interim housing into permanent housing.

The Resident Advocate is responsible for the overall day-to-day operation on site and responds to program participants needs on an as needed basis. They facilitate the flow of on-site amenities like access to clinical services, workshops, laundry supplies and food services ensuring each participant’s essential needs are met. They also ensure participant, staff and guest safety through regular check-ins and monitoring of the site grounds and sleeping units.

For more information, please visit <https://www.homefirstscc.org>

REPORTING RELATIONSHIP: The position reports to the on-site Program Manager and is a vital member of the Bernal site.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Direct Service (90%)

Responsible for the care, safety and supervision of program participants and guest
Implement and enforce EIH guidelines and EIH site rules
Welcome all agency guests to the facility, including program participants, volunteers, staff, and community members
Check guests into and out of the facility using the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS)
Document all notes of services provided into HMIS within 3 business days
Complete intake of potential participants including thorough and accurate VI-SPDAT assessments
Work with participants to execute their personalized housing plan
Provide direct guest support with developing, updating, and reassessing housing plans
Make timely and appropriate decisions in emergency situations, including awareness of the need for safety of all participants involved, mandated reporting, and contacting appropriate staff/responding agencies
Promote and lead weekly workshops for participants on site to include topics such as financial literacy, tenant rights and mediation, resume building, job search and credit repair, etc.
Respond to guest crises using de-escalation and Mental Health First Aid techniques as applicable
Adhere to HomeFirst’s service delivery practices, including Trauma Informed Care, client- centered practice, and Crisis Prevention Intervention model
Complete and submit Incident Reports, Behavioral Contracts, and Gross Violations as needed
Provide information, referrals, housing resources, and program support to program participants
Distribute clothing, linens, toiletries, and any other items supplied by the program
Restock program supplies and submit supply order request in a timely manner
Inspect cabins and complete inspection sheets on site
Support with participants treatment of property prior to move-in
Provide general site clean-up, reporting any maintenance or janitorial needs to the Shift Manager or Program Coordinator in a timely manner
Conduct cabin, facility, and perimeter checks
Assist with set-up and break-down for any special events or activities
Complete and file all paperwork in a timely manner
Maintain professional conduct, attitude and appearance
Communicate to and delegate tasks to next shift
Maintain confidentiality regarding clients, personnel and other internal agency affairs
Conduct business according with employee handbook, exercising judgement and serving the best interests of the agency and community
Maintain compliance with agency/BHC site policies and procedures
Provide socialization skills- empathetic listening, problem solving, information and referral, mediation, crisis intervention
Committed to treat each BHC guest with respect and dignity

Demonstrated conflict resolution skills

General (10%)

Represent HomeFirst and the program appropriately to volunteers, donors, outside agencies and the public
Assist with office-related tasks as needed
Attend all mandatory meetings, workshops, and trainings
Perform other general duties as assigned

QUALITIES

The Resident Advocate is committed to ending homelessness via the principles of Housing First and Harm Reduction. They demonstrate this commitment through their proactive and creative approach to program interventions and services. They recognize the time sensitivity required to support those in crisis to maint