Community Health Worker

Community Health Worker (Mental Health and Homeless Outreach)

The Mental Health & Homeless Outreach Community Health Worker (CHW) supports the St. Joseph Police Department's Homeless Liaison Officer by providing direct outreach, case management, and service coordination for individuals experiencing homelessness, mental health challenges, or co-occurring needs. This position serves as a bridge between law enforcement, social service agencies, local businesses, and the community. The CHW will also manage a caseload for the Community Cares Court and act as a resource for businesses seeking guidance on homelessness-related concerns.

This role is designed for a compassionate, community-minded professional who can build trust, navigate complex systems, and help individuals access the services they need to stabilize and thrive. No supervisory or budgetary responsibilities.

Outreach & Engagement

• Street Outreach — Conduct proactive outreach to individuals experiencing homelessness, including those with mental health or substance use challenges.
• Crisis Support — Assist the Homeless Liaison Officer during welfare checks, crisis calls, and nonemergency interactions.
• Relationship Building — Establish rapport with vulnerable individuals to encourage voluntary service participation.

Case Management & Service Coordination

• Case Planning — Develop individualized service plans addressing housing, mental health, substance use, employment, and basic needs.
• Resource Navigation — Connect clients to local providers, including shelters, behavioral health services, medical care, and benefits programs.
• Community Cares Court Support — Manage a caseload of court-involved individuals, track progress, prepare updates, and coordinate with court staff.
• Documentation — Maintain accurate, timely records in accordance with department and court requirements.

Business & Community Support

• Business Outreach — Serve as a point of contact for local businesses seeking guidance on homelessness-related concerns.
• Education & Training — Provide information on de-escalation, available resources, and best practices for interacting with individuals in crisis.
• Community Collaboration — Work with nonprofits, healthcare providers, faith-based groups, and city departments to coordinate services.

Program Development & Reporting

• Data Tracking — Collect and analyze outreach and case management data to identify trends and improve service delivery.
• Program Improvement — Assist in developing outreach strategies, community initiatives, and partnerships that enhance the city's response to homelessness.
• Public Engagement — Participate in community meetings, task forces, and public education efforts.

Other Duties and Responsibilities

• Performs all other assigned duties which support the overall objective of the position and/or department mission.
• Attends related training and meetings.
• Maintains a professional relationship with the public, outside agencies and co-workers.
• Maintains a positive attitude and promotes a team environment.

Employee Behavior and Conduct

City employees shall conduct themselves in a professional manner and shall exhibit and extend such professional conduct appropriate for the circumstances to those with whom they come into contact both internally and externally during the performance of their duties. Examples of professional conduct include, but are not limited to, being communicative, informative, fair, honest, and respectful.

Required Knowledge,

Skills and Abilities

• Experience in social services, behavioral health, outreach work, or related fields.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build trust with diverse populations.
• Ability to work collaboratively with law enforcement, courts, and service providers.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel within the city.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.

Preferred Knowledge,

Skills and Abilities

• Experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness, mental illness, or substance use disorders.
• Familiarity with trauma informed care, harm reduction, and deescalation techniques.

Material and Equipment Directly Used

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