Outreach Worker

POSITION TITLE : Outreach Worker LOCATION : Lexington, KY PROGRAM : Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) STATUS : FT- Hourly - Non-Exempt REPORTS TO : Program Manager INTRODUCTION : Volunteers of America Mid-States (VOA) is a non-profit serving communities across four states. We create positive change by offering housing for families, veterans, and seniors, supporting people with developmental disabilities, providing restorative justice programs, and offering free HIV testing and education. Since our founding in 1896, we’ve remained mission-driven and focused on service. Today, our professional staff continues that legacy by building stronger, healthier communities. VOA values flexibility, teamwork, and a positive workplace culture. Eligible employees also receive a full benefits package. JOB SUMMARY & QUALIFICATIONS : The Outreach Worker connects with veterans and their families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. This role helps them access the Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) Program and ensures services meet program goals and requirements. Education / Experience : This position requires a high school diploma. Two years’ customer service experience required. Skills : Skills in oral and written communication. Ability to effectively communicate with target population. Ability to exercise tact, diplomacy, judgment, discretion and honesty. Must learn and apply agency and program policies and procedures. Computer skills, including the capacity to use Microsoft Office, Microsoft Excel and other programs to manage a high volume of detailed information and responsibilities. Other Requirements : Knowledge of problems associated with target population preferred. Must have a personal automobile, valid driver’s license, liability insurance, and be willing and able to travel between counties served by the project, up to 90% of the time. Must complete required training within 90 days of hire. Must have ability to work independently and solve problems creatively.Superior written and oral communication skills mandatory, as well as the ability to communication professionally and appropriately via telephone and in person. Ability and desire to maintain confidentiality of all persons requesting assistance, the services requested, and the outcome of his / her request. Must demonstrate initiative and strive to continually improve process and relationships. Excellent time management skills, including demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and set priorities to meet deadlines. The aptitude to develop and maintain a deep understanding of the eligibility criteria and policies related to various federal and local public benefit programs. Ability to remain non-judgmental, empathetic, andrespectful of the homeless veterans we serve.Experience with the HMIS is preferred, but not required. RESPONSIBILITIES : Conducts outreach to identify and engage target population. Ensures compliance with grant requirements. Ensures Volunteers of America’s positive public image when working with social service agencies, local businesses, community partners, etc. Familiar with other Volunteers of America programs and services. To model agency core values of integrity, compassion, diversity, commitment, and justice to all internal and external contacts. Assist in the screening of clients for SSVF program entrance in person or by phone interview, including verifying eligibility requirements of the program. Understand the barriers that clients in both urban and rural areas face and how to best serve clients in both of these areas. Refer clients who do not qualify for the SSVF program to other mainstream services for assistance, or to other housing stabilization programs in their service area when they do not meet SSVF eligibility. Understand and apply the Presumptive eligibility criteria and eligible document requirements to use for the Presumptive eligibility status during intake such as HINQ, VA ID Cards, and SOS. Participate in outreach activities, including but not limited to street / shelter outreach, coordinated-entry meetings, Stand Down, resource fairs, Week of Valor / Veterans Day events, and annual PIT count. Demonstrate ability to relate to Veterans and their family in a culturally appropriate manner. Participate in all appropriate staff, supervision, case consultation, and training meetings. Assumes other duties as assigned by the SSVF Program Manager and Senior Management. Performance quality improvement (PQI) duties as assigned by supervision & PQI We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.