Intake Specialist - Emergency Shelter Placement

Description

The Intake Specialist - Emergency Shelter Placement is responsible for screening and assisting homeless families seeking shelter through online applications or referrals from the Homeless Hotline. They conduct interviews, gather intake information, and mediate family issues while making appropriate shelter referrals. The role promotes a culture of innovation and personal growth, with a focus on lifelong learning. Formerly homeless applicants are encouraged to apply for the position.

Conduct intake assessments for families experiencing homelessness online or via telephone to determine homeless status, utilize diversion strategies to help families identify immediate resources and support systems, conduct housing mediation activities with family members and friends to determine alternative housing placement, and refer literally homeless families in appropriate shelters, according to eligibility, need, shelter availability, and compliance.

• Screen families promptly and compassionately, providing the most appropriate services possible
• Help families solve non-housing problems as needed
• Mediate on the family’s behalf with a minimum of three collateral contacts to prevent emergency shelter placement if possible
• Coordinate shelter referrals to unpaid and paid shelter providers as needed according to established procedures
• Demonstrate effective problem‑solving, decision‑making, and negotiation skills
• Exercise flexibility within guidelines, when necessary, with respect to addressing client needs
• Make appropriate and prompt referrals to other service providers
• Have clients upload documents needed to their Coaction Net application
• Retrieve and respond to electronic written communications that include referrals and other information in a timely manner
• Organize client files electronically daily via shared drive, Coaction Net and HMIS

Deliver excellence in program delivery and outcomes by promoting 100% accountability for the quality of program performance.

• Accurately and promptly enter all client data and program entry/exit into Coaction Net, shared drive, and HMIS database daily
• Compile, scan, and upload the complete client file with client interaction in the required databases after each client interaction
• Review caseload and dashboard reports to ensure error‑free data entry
• Maintain accurate, complete client records electronically and in any required database(s)

Develop, promote, and utilize technology to advance program efficiencies and service, and partner with shelter providers to ensure appropriate services and shelter placement for clients.

• Maintain knowledge of community services by networking, to maximize external collaborations to deepen program impact
• Contact shelters via email daily to check for availability, and document daily availability
• Ensure that all shelter beds are filled according to shelter guidelines
• Coordinate shelter intake client appointment times with clients to ensure correct information is provided
• Communicate current and relevant community resources and shelter information with program leaders, coworkers, and clients

• Knowledge and belief in Housing First philosophy and strategies
• Creative thinker with an understanding of strengths‑based case management, motivational interviewing, and progressive engagement
• Strong communication skills, particularly in listening, mediation, and writing, to support diverse, low‑income, and/or homeless families
• Detail‑oriented to meet file requirements and contract compliance
• Assist with reports, audits, and reviews as needed
• Engage volunteers to increase program efficiency and impact in FY24
• Actively participate in housing team, staffing, and other MIFA meetings
• Collaborate with the housing team to implement best practices for homeless family services
• Cover caseload in the absence of other Specialists
• Maintain confidentiality of client and donor information
• Access to adequately insured automobile and valid driver’s license
• Provide compassionate services while maintaining professional balance and family self‑determination
• Knowledge of the HEARTH Act, Family Housing, and homelessness‑related issues preferred
• Familiarity with…