Aftercare Specialist

The Program:
YWCA Sojourner's Shelter for Homeless Women & Families provides emergency shelter and supportive services around the clock, every day of the year, for homeless single women, women with children, men with custody of their children, and intact families. This 75-bed facility offers a secure, healthy environment with crisis intervention, case management, and counseling to help individuals achieve long-term self-sufficiency. We maintain a successful recidivism rate of about five (5) percent annually, well below the national average of individuals returning to shelters.

Children’s programs include computer and art classes, tutoring, drug-free education, supportive counseling, and field trips. Recovering from and preventing future homelessness is our goal for all who take shelter with us.

The Position:
Aftercare Specialist is a full-time position working closely with peers, under the direction of the Program and Assistant Directors. The specialist will work directly with formerly homeless residents of Sojourner’s to provide support, crisis intervention, and mainstream resources to ensure long-term self-sufficiency.

Qualifications:

• BA and two years experience in human service, social work, or counseling field
• Experience may be substituted for degree requirements depending on relevancy to the position.

Additional Requisites:

• Knowledge, experience, and understanding of substance abuse/mental illness.
• Ability to work with a diverse population from all backgrounds in a non-judgmental manner and sensitivity to the problems of homelessness.
• General knowledge of community services and referral process to various community and/or governmental programs.
• Ability to interact constructively and work in harmony with diverse community interests.
• Commitment and understanding of the mission and philosophy of the YWCA Sojourner’s Shelter and a holistic approach to the problems of homelessness.
• Must have a reliable vehicle, a valid driving license, and be insured.
• Must pass a criminal background check.

Responsibilities:

• Be committed to and follow the YWCA of Charleston Employee Handbook and the Rules, Procedures, and Protocols governing the YWCA Sojourner’s Shelter Program, including maintaining professional boundaries with the clients and residents.
• Provide community-based/in-home services to single women and families with mental health and/or substance abuse issues/diagnoses.
• Coordinate and work cooperatively with other agencies and groups serving this population.
• Provide support and guidance to former participants as needed and/or deemed appropriate to assist them in maintaining their self-sufficiency.
• Make referrals to appropriate mainstream resources (i.e., food pantries, clothing closets, emergency assistance programs).
• Complete an assessment of individual and/or family needs and assist without being an enabler.
• Retain accurate records of participants’ progress, statistical data, and reports.
• Participate in case review sessions.
• Maintain all documentation on and/or relevant to quality service delivery.
• Provide and coordinate transportation as needed.
• Advocate for participants as needed to ensure quality service delivery.
• Other duties as assigned.

Why Should You Apply?

• You want to make a difference and see positive change in a person’s life!
• You are passionate about helping people become empowered to be self-sufficient!
• You are a critical thinker and think outside the proverbial box!
• You want to be part of a team that collaborates for the greater good of an individual and the organization!

Compensation: $14.00 to $17.75 hourly.