Intake & Outreach Specialist - Rescue Mission Alliance : Job Details

Organization The Rescue Mission Alliance (RMA) is a Christian non-profit organization that has been serving the less fortunate in Southern California through emergency and long-term rehabilitation services since 1972. RMA partners with local churches to meet the spiritual needs of the people we serve. Summary: Rescue Mission Alliance Ventura County is seeking a dedicated and organized Intake and Outreach Specialist to identify potential candidates for our faith-based recovery programs and guide them from conditions of homelessness and addiction to recovery and stability. This multifaceted role involves actively engaging with individuals in the community through outreach efforts, building trusting relationships, and facilitating the intake process for those seeking our services. The Intake and Outreach Specialist will also play a role in coordinating and training of volunteers and staff involved in various RMA VC outreach ministries. A key aspect of this position is assisting qualified individuals with the program intake process and the development of initial stability plans. This may involve collaborating with a range of external partners, including healthcare, government agencies, and the legal system. This is a full-time, non-exempt position reporting to the Program Manager. Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Intake and Assessment: 50%
  • Facilitate the intake process for individuals expressing interest in RMA programs, ensuring a welcoming and supportive environment.
  • Conduct initial assessments to determine program eligibility and suitability.
  • Gather necessary information from prospective participants.
  • Collaborate with staff to ensure a smooth transition into the program.

• Outreach and Engagement: 30%
  • Proactively identify and engage with individuals experiencing homelessness, addiction, and other life issues in various community settings, including encampments, parks, and other community events or locations.
  • Build rapport and establish trusting relationships with potential program participants through consistent and compassionate interaction.
  • Work closely with community partners and other social service agencies to better identify and serve potential clients.
  • Assess the immediate needs of individuals encountered during outreach and provide appropriate support and referrals.
  • Maintain accurate records of outreach activities and interactions.
  • Collaborate with the Volunteer Coordinator to engage and support volunteers involved in outreach ministries.
  • Provide guidance and support to volunteers and staff participating with applicable outreach efforts.

• Stability Planning and Coordination: 10%
  • Assist new program participants in developing initial stability plans, identifying immediate needs and long-term goals, UNTIL A CASE MANAGER IS ASSIGNED
  • Coordinate with external agencies and professionals, including healthcare providers, insurance, probation/parole officers, and other social service organizations, to support participants' stability. UNTIL A CASE MANAGER IS ASSIGNED
  • Advocate for participants' needs and facilitate access to essential services, UNTIL A CASE MANAGER IS ASSIGNED

• Administrative and Other Duties: 10%
  • Attend regular staff meetings and training sessions.
  • Prepare reports and documentation as required.

Qualifications:

• Strong and active Christian faith, with a passion for helping others and a desire to serve individuals experiencing homelessness and addiction.
• Strong ability to empathize with and build rapport with individuals from diverse backgrounds and challenging circumstances.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Well-organized with the ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness, addiction, mental health challenges is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with local community resources and social service agencies is a plus.
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality.
• Proficiency in basic computer applications (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite).
• Valid California driver's license and insurability.
• Must be able to pass a background check and drug screening.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to walk 2 miles and stand for extended periods during outreach activities.
• The employee may occasionally be required to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
• The employee may be exposed to outside weather conditions.

Software

• PC knowledge including Excel, Word, Outlook, Raiser's Edge, Mission Tracker, Canva or similar software preferred.

Work Environment Although this position functions to a large degree in an office setting, as a part of normal duties this position will be in locations with an at-risk population where errant behavior and risk of infectious disease may be present, as well as commercial settings where medium duty equipment may be in use, such as forklifts and bailers. Appropriate safety considerations will be required to avoid illness or injury.