Diversion Specialist | Homelessness

Description

CSPNJ, a mental health nonprofit agency, is looking for a Diversion Specialist in Passaic County. The Diversion Specialist is responsible for coordinating the Passaic County Prevention and Diversion Project. Coordination includes intake, assessment, creation of housing stabilization plans, direct service provision, referrals, and data input for grant management.

• Assess housing barriers of participants who are unstably housed, at risk of homelessness, or currently homeless to determine housing and service needs, by use of assessment tools.
• Determine the appropriateness of household for receipt of prevention/diversion funds using the Diversion, Prevention, and Rapid Rehousing Screening Tool, the recommended amount, and track use of the rapid rehousing/prevention/diversion funds.
• Develop comprehensive housing stabilization plans in partnership with eligible service recipients to address needs impacting housing stabilization.
• Provide referrals for other community resources and maintain consistent communication channels, both verbal and written, between the relevant parties (i.e. tenant, landlord, referral source, collaborating agencies).
• Document and maintain up-to-date information on services provided and funds expended in the Homeless Client Information System (HMIS).

Full-time | Benefit Eligible (Medical, free DMO dental & free vision) including 6 weeks PTO & 11 Holidays

• Bachelor’s degree in a mental health discipline or
• Associate’s degree with 2+ years of work experience.
• Knowledge of poverty and homelessness causes, trends, issues and solutions.
• Detail oriented with strong organizational and time management skills.
• Strong judgment and problem-solving abilities to work with citizens, businesses, and others in emotional/stressful situations.
• Strong expertise in strengths-based, solution-focused practice.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Knowledge and experience working with diverse cultures and ethnicities.
• Proficient in MS Office products, as well as general computer literacy.
• Ability to work with individuals with mental illness in a caring and professional manner.
• Bilingual skills are a plus!
• Valid NJ Driver’s License with acceptable driving record.
• Lived
  
  Experience:
  
  CSPNJ prioritizes hiring people who use their own life experience dealing with mental health/substance use challenges to inspire and support others.