Community Support Specialist (LSW

Job Title

Community Support Specialist

Shelter

Full time, non-exempt

$25.50 Hourly

Reports to project CARE Manager. Works closely with the Community Pet Clinic (CPC), the Animal Resource Center (ARC), and Humane Investigations.

The primary function of this position is to work closely with other departments at the APL as well as social service agencies across Cuyahoga County to connect pet owners to needed resources and support. Oversees Crisis Safety Net program.

• Oversee Crisis Safety Net program, assesses clients for program eligibility and oversees the program’s case management. Provides support and counseling to clients as needed, or by referral from doctors or staff, including those experiencing high levels of stress and emotion.
• Facilitate interactions with clients in emotionally charged situations, either in person, via email, or on the telephone in an empathetic manner.
• Provides consultation to doctors and staff regarding assessment of client’s comprehension of diagnosis and prognosis of the patient
• Meet with clients, providing short term supportive counseling during end-of-life decision making, pet euthanasia, hospitalization of pet, and resource support.
• Assist Admissions and Humane Investigations teams with open cases and surrender, providing support to pet owners through the process.
• Connects pet owners in crisis to human and pet resources, both internal and external
• Develops and expands partnerships with community organizations that provide human and pet services. (i.e. homeless shelters, free/low-cost emergency temporary boarding facilities, etc.).
• Manage data and reporting related to project activities, milestones, and success indicators. Completes and collects all required program documentation with accuracy, consistency; provides supervisors with monthly reporting and program analysis.
• Interface with animals of varying species, size, and temperament, both in carriers and on leashes. Handle individual animals in a safe, caring, and respectful manner.
• Demonstrate a value system that is in accordance with the interests of the agency and clientele served (NASW Code of Ethics).
• Coordinate and attend Project CARE and community outreach events to provide support to underserved and low-income communities in need, which may include set-up and tear-down. Some events will be outdoors and may be subject to inclement weather.

• Is flexible with scheduling and is available when away from the facility as needed to meet the needs of the organization; shifts may include varied hours/days, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as needed
• Notifies VP of Operations of situations that could be harmful to the reputation of the APL.
• Informs supervisor of special needs cases for potential public relations or direct mail pieces.
• Ensures policies and procedures are being followed
• Promotes and follows safety guidelines to ensure a safe work environment. Takes immediate action to address any safety concern or noncompliance with OSHA safety rules that could put an employee, volunteer, client, animal, and organization at risk.
• Promotes communication and cooperation between APL departments
• Assists with food pantries at the shelter, the Community Resource Center (CRC), and off-site locations as needed to support Project Care initiatives and support community pet owners.
• Performs other duties as assigned

• Minimum 2-3 years experience in social services practice or equivalent work experience.
• Valid, unencumbered LSW/LISW license.
• Experience with grief/bereavement and/or trauma
• Internal applicants must be currently in good standing
• Highly dependable, able to multi-task and manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Must possess an Ohio’s driver’s license with an insurable driving record
• Fear Free Certified or must become certified within six months of hire

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with a variety of people
• Ability to develop solutions based on individual needs assessments
• Ability to work with a computer in a Windows environment
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written and…