The PATH outreach worker operates in a dyad and provides comprehensive individualized support services using a client-centered harm reduction trauma-informed model for their participants. Responsibilities include outreach to street and shelter-based clients across the Chicagoland area, adding people to the Coordinated Entry System as a skilled assessor or observational assessor, accompanying participants in applying for and going to medical & benefits appointments, and connecting folks to case managers and community-based resources as desired by the participant.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

• Provide outreach and temporary case management services including intakes, assessments, basic service planning, referral and linkage management, and advocacy to and for individuals who are houseless.

• Utilize a provided subsidy to locate 10 units under FMR and support the tenants placed in these units.

• Identify participant needs including barriers to receiving appropriate services and assist with effective problem solving to address issues.

• Conduct weekly outreach and visits to each participant.

• Perform crisis prevention and interventions as needed using Harm Reduction and Trauma informed philosophies.

• Act as a temporary liaison with other service providers and landlords as applicable.

• Ensure that participants are receiving all desired health insurance benefits including medical and behavioral health services.

• Make appropriate referrals for services based on participant goals and needs and ensure that linkages are secure and functional.

• Provide education and resources based on the needs of the participant with regard to acquiring and maintaining housing and improving income status, community involvement, personal hygiene, life skills, and other identified needs.

• Assist participants in enrolling in public benefits such as SNAP, SOAR, or employment readiness programs.

• Assist participants in obtaining state ID, social security card, birth certificate, and other necessary documents to receive future services.

• Refer and link clients to appropriate services within the system of care that promotes positive health outcomes, treatment adherence, and greater self-sufficiency.

• Maintain the confidentiality of participant information in any written, oral, or electronic form including but not limited to health information, HIV/AIDS status, and disability information. Release such information only as needed and with the proper release from the client unless mandated by law.

• Reporting all incidents of abuse and/or neglect as required by state law.

Documentation & Recordkeeping

• Complete case notes in PIMSY within five business days of interaction.

• Complete basic care plans every 6 months based on participant goals.

• Update HMIS regarding CES entries. Maintains all applicable and required documentation in participants’ files.

Other

• Maintain required professional knowledge and job skills. Attend and participate in monthly staff development opportunities.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• [Details on Administrative Ability, Affordable Care Act knowledge, Attention to Detail, Autonomy, Case Management skills, Customer Service Orientation, Database Use, Dependability, Follow-Through, Harm Reduction knowledge, HIPAA awareness, knowledge of Homeless Populations, Initiative, Interpersonal Skills, Planning and Organizing, Problem Solving, Resolving Conflicts, Stress Tolerance, Supportive Housing knowledge, Teamwork, and Communication Verbal & Written skills]

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

• The physical demands are representative of those found in a general office environment. Tasks involve the ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work but which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling of objects and materials of moderate weight (20-25 pounds).

• This position operates in a professional office work environment. Regular travel to off-site locations in Chicago. RSSI is a smoke and drug-free environment. Work schedules and/or locations may vary depending upon the scheduling needs of the program. May be required to attend meetings at other locations; require travel outside of normal work hours. Any changes in work schedules and/or location will be implemented in accordance with agency policy.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS (EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION) Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Services or related field and 1 or more years’ Supportive Housing Case Management experience OR 3 or more years’ Supportive Housing Case Management experience

• Experience applying Homelessness and Supportive Housing concepts

• Experience applying Harm Reduction and Housing First philosophies

Preferred Qualifications:

• 1 or more years’ experience in Substance Use and Mental Health field

• Experience in applying and/or interpreting the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and Medicaid services

• Experience in applying Crisis Prevention Intervention, Goal Setting, and Resolution techniques

• Valid Illinois Driver's License. Valid insurance and a vehicle.