Outreach Specialist (52069)

**POSITION SUMMARY:** The Outreach Specialist is responsible for actively seeking out and engaging individuals living with HIV/AIDS who need housing assistance. This role involves building relationships with community partners, developing, and implementing outreach/education strategies, and providing direct assistance to clients in accessing the Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) program. **ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:** - Facilitate individual and group counseling/educational and outreach sessions with people living with HIV/AIDS. - Educate participants and the community about alcohol and substance use disorder, as well as other factors observed to be correlated with HIV/AIDS transmission. - Will conduct and outreach to various community-based organizations and agencies that work with people living with HIV/AIDS or at high-risk. - Take lead on and attend community outreach events; coordinate HOPWA related event participation, including, but not limited to establishing registration, set-up/tear-down, times/dates and other event details. - Coordinate learning opportunities for clients by engaging external resources and learning opportunities on their behalf. - Educate the community about the HOPWA program and its services. - Screen potential clients for eligibility to participate in the HOPWA program; Provide information about the program and its benefits. - Assist clients in completing the application process; help them to establish referral and/or medical services with their preferred medical service provider. - Connect clients with case managers for ongoing support. - Assist in the development and implementation of new outreach initiatives; Collaborate effectively with program staff to improve outreach strategies. - Must embrace and embody the mission, vision, guiding principles, clinical vision, and goals of WestCare Foundation, and - Other relevant duties as assigned. **ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS:** *To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the duties and responsibilities satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.* - Minimum of 2 years of experience in outreach or social services. - Knowledge of HIV/AIDS and related issues. - Strong interpersonal and communication skills; bilingual preferred. - Ability to work independently and as part of a team. - Experience working with diverse populations. - Ability to respond as needed to crisis situations in an efficient manner. - Ability to work well in a team environment. - Adherence to the highest standard of ethical conduct, especially to standards governing confidentiality. - Professional appearance and demeanor. - Must be sensitive to populations served. - Must be able to obtain and maintain a successful background check. - Valid driver’s license and ability to obtain and maintain WestCare’s vehicle insurance is required. - During your tenure with WestCare there may be new requirements, including, but not limited to vaccinations that are issued by local, State, Federal, and/or Funders that WestCare may have to comply with. Should this occur Human Resources or appropriate personnel will inform you. **EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:** - High School Diploma or equivalent **is required.** - Bachelor’s Degree in Community Health, Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, Rehabilitation, or related field is preferred. - Minimum one (1) year experience working in one or more of the following areas: substance abuse prevention, treatment, health promotion/education, community organizing, or working with people experiencing homelessness and their families. **WORKING CONDITIONS:** - Work is primarily performed in the community. - Some travel is required; and some outdoor activities may be required. - Some driving is required.