Olmstead ; OHS

Summary

The OHS Specialist plays a critical role in supporting people who are living in institutional settings or otherwise unstably housed or experiencing homelessness. The position encompasses a dual function of housing specialist and independent living specialist. It assists eligible participants in finding and securing affordable and accessible housing. The Specialist is responsible for connecting participants with critical resources, including rental subsidies, community transition supports, and other essential services to promote stable housing and enhance their quality of life.

The OHS Specialist will work closely with discharge planners, transition specialists and other providers to coordinate and implement a comprehensive array of supports and services, ensuring seamless transitions to stable housing.

• Associates degree in a human services or social work related field; and
• One year of experience in housing, Independent Living, community-based supports and services, long term care, and/or disability rights; or
• An equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Knowledge of state and local housing policies, practices, laws, and issues impacting seniors and people with disabilities preferred.
• Knowledge of resources, supports and services available in the community for seniors and people with disabilities.
• Strong commitment to the independent living philosophy, Person Centered Planning, consumer choice and integration of people with disabilities into all aspects of community life.
• Ability to effectively interact and work with individuals from diverse cultures and backgrounds.
• Proficient in the use of all Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, Power Point).
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Demonstrate professional work habits including dependability, time management, independence, and responsibility.
• Knowledge of ethical and professional responsibilities and boundaries.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to multi-task and work effectively in both a team and individual setting.
• Capacity to work in various settings, including home visits and community-based locations.
• Valid Driver's License and reliable vehicle.

• Actively support STICs mission, philosophy, and values and the pursuit of community integration for all people with disabilities.
• Conduct intakes and determine eligibility for potential OHS participants who are identified as a homeless high utilizer by a Hospital, Managed Care Organization, Medical Respite, Performing Provider System, or Skilled Nursing Facility.
• Assist eligible OHS Housing participants through all steps necessary for OHS program enrollment, including: collecting and completing required program documentation, filling out housing applications, obtaining household goods and/or support for moving expenses, arranging unit inspections, etc.
• Assist OHS participants with identifying individualized goals and developing and implementing an Individualized Service Plan (ISP), in collaboration with transition specialists, service coordinators (SC), Nursing Home Discharge Planners, Care Managers (CM), natural supports, and/or advocates, as appropriate.
• Work with participants and/or their with transition specialists, service coordinators (SC), Nursing Home Discharge Planners, Care Managers (CM), natural supports, and/or advocates to ensure adequate supports are in place for a successful transition to stable housing.
• Identify landlords, public housing, and private housing in the region which may be suitable for individuals enrolled in the OHS program in the future.
• Maintain a registry of available housing in the region, including degree of accessibility, location, proximity to services, and