Youth Shelter Diversion Specialist

Company Overview :

New Reach is undergoing an exciting transformation in order to bring the organization to its next level of success. Working to provide, shelter, housing, stabilization and support for children, families and individuals experiencing homelessness across CT since 1990, New Reach inspires independence for those affected by homelessness and poverty. Using the most innovative and progressive methods through a continuum of housing and support, New Reach has grown to be one of the most effective nonprofits of its kind in the United States.

Primary Purpose :

The Youth Shelter Diversion Specialist is responsible for conducting phone and in-person assessments with youth, individuals, and families to prevent households experiencing literal or imminent homelessness from entering shelter. This position facilitates connections to community resources and supports that address identified needs, promoting housing stability and self-sufficiency. The Youth Shelter Diversion Specialist also collaborates with the local homeless services network to coordinate shelter placements when appropriate and available.

Essential Functions :

• Perform assessments to homeless and unstably housed populations within Greater New Haven with the goal of diverting people from having to enter shelter
• Provide services in different office locations as required.
• Provide referrals and support to clients being diverted from shelter to help stabilize their households
• Confirm eligibility criteria for any family entering the shelter system, provide client / landlord mediation and / or family mediation interventions and diversion techniques as appropriate
• Participate in daily community phone calls to advocate for prioritization
• Creatively access, utilize, and monitor use of flexible funds for clients when available
• Assist families receiving financial diversion with the leasing process, and perform housing inspections to ensure compliance with Housing Habitability Standards and Lead Visual Assessments
• Ensure all documentation is entered into Homeless Management Information System Database (HMIS) and any other data database within 24-48 hours of incident / contact
• Follow all mandated reporting requirements per Department of Children and Families when applicable
• Develop a strong profile within the homeless services community to strengthen diversion referrals and increase accessibility for collaboration with partnering agencies
• Attend required trainings programs and community meetings, and regularly scheduled supervision, staff and or other meetings as assigned
• Other duties as assigned to ensure successful programmatic operations

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