Homeless Outreach Worker Position

Job Overview
The Homeless Outreach Worker will serve on the front lines of the Central Mississippi Continuum of Care’s mission to prevent and end homelessness. This role is responsible for engaging with individuals and families experiencing homelessness in both sheltered and unsheltered environments, building trust, connecting them to critical resources, and assisting with placement into supportive housing programs. The Outreach Worker will provide direct services while collaborating with CoC partners, local service agencies, and community stakeholders to ensure that clients receive comprehensive, wraparound support.

Duties

Street & Community Outreach

• Conduct regular outreach in encampments, shelters, and other community settings to identify individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
• Build trusting relationships through consistent engagement and trauma-informed care practices.

Case Management & Support Services

• Assess client needs using CoC assessment tools (such as VI-SPDAT) and enter data into the HMIS system.
• Provide referrals and linkages to shelter, permanent housing, health care, mental health/substance use treatment, employment, and other supportive services.
• Assist clients in navigating public benefits, identification documents, and transportation supports.

Collaboration & Advocacy

• Work closely with CoC member agencies, local governments, and community partners to coordinate services.
• Advocate for clients’ rights, safety, and dignity in accessing housing and supportive programs.
• Participate in CoC case conferencing, by-name list management, and coordinated entry meetings.

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential records in accordance with CoC and HUD guidelines.
• Track outcomes, prepare reports, and contribute to evaluation of program effectiveness.

Qualifications

Required

• High School Diploma or GED.
• 1+ year of experience working in social services, outreach, case management, or related field.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with ability to engage vulnerable populations respectfully.
• Knowledge of issues related to homelessness, poverty, mental health, substance use, and trauma.
• Valid driver’s license, auto insurance and reliable transportation.

Preferred

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, Human Services, Psychology, or related field.
• Familiarity with HUD programs, HMIS data entry, and Coordinated Entry System processes.
• Experience working with diverse populations, including veterans, families, youth, and individuals with disabilities.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) is a plus.

Core Competencies

• Trauma-informed care and motivational interviewing.
• Crisis intervention and de-escalation skills.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive hourly wage/salary commensurate with experience.
• Paid time off, holidays, and professional development opportunities
• Health, dental, and vision insurance options.
• Mileage reimbursement for outreach travel.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $15.00 per hour

Expected hours: 20 – 25 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Paid time off

Work Location:

In person