Veterans Program Engagement Specialist

St Louis, MO, US,

St. Patrick Center provides opportunities for self-sufficiency and dignity to people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Individuals and families build permanent, positive change in their lives through safe and affordable housing, sound mental and physical health, and employment and financial stability.

Working collaboratively with individuals, businesses, government and other service providers, St. Patrick Center will end chronic homelessness in the St. Louis region through Housing First, an evidence-based practice that tells us to remove barriers, do intake and assessment early, move people into housing and offer them support to achieve their goals.

Job Summary
Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of St. Louis, service line St. Patrick Center, is looking for a mission and values driven individual to join our team at our off-site location, Caritas St. Matthews. The Engagement Specialist, working in the Grants Per Diem (GPD) Contract Emergency Residential Services (CERS) Program, will observe and evaluate the daily traffic of the off-site residential program location. The specialist will observe and notify appropriate contacts of disturbances at the residential property and will work to ensure that safety of the clients, coworkers, and visitors. This program is a 24/7 program, requires the ability to be flexible, and able to consistently work Saturday and Sunday. The position is part-time, works no more than 19 hours per week, and is ineligible for benefits.

Job Responsibilities

• Direct individuals to appropriate entrances such as volunteers, visitors and persons seeking services.
• Complete security rounds both inside and outside of the residential campus to monitor the safety and cleanliness of the area.
• Engage clients in conversation to determine needs; provide appropriate resources.
• Engage clients in conversations regarding substance use and mental health.
• Work closely with area service agencies to ensure service delivery.
• Refer clients to appropriate community agencies and shelter providers as needed.
• Use appropriate de-escalation techniques to defuse volatile persons.
• Use appropriate judgement to call "911" for emergency assistance.
• Providing a welcome presence to clients and visitors
• Maintain positive relationship with each client.
• Record and maintain services provided and notes for on-going clients in CaseWorthy and Service Point
• Complete all daily documentation of each intervention with residents.
• Maintain visitor and other logs at front desk.
• Report behavioral/physical changes, problems and/or concerns regarding residents to social worker and respond/intervene as needed in therapeutic manner.
• Provide crisis intervention when necessary.
• Complete Incident Reports as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements
KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• High school diploma or GED required.
• First aid training and CPR within 30 days of hire.
• Current TB test within 30 days of hire.
• Experience with mental health/SUD required.
• Housing First philosophy knowledge.
• Knowledge of mental health and co-occurring diagnoses.
• Basic Microsoft Office skills required (Word, Outlook, Excel).
• Participate in interdisciplinary or multi-interdisciplinary team approach.

Skills & Competencies Required

• Ability to interface with diverse population.
• Strong communication skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours.
• Ability to work varying shifts.
• Ability to remain awake for shift.
• Treat each resident with respect, keeping good professional boundaries.
• Ability to coach clients in educational manner toward treatment goals.
• Flexible and open to change.
• Understand and practice client confidentiality.
• Understand and practice client/staff boundaries.

RESOURCES FOR WHICH ACCOUNTABLE

• None

Incumbent's public positions and values must be in full agreement with those of Catholic Charities and the teachings of the Catholic Church.
St. Patrick Center does not discriminate on the basis of handicapped status in the admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its federally assisted programs and activities. St. Patrick Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, or disability.

Pre-Employment Screening

All candidates receiving an employment offer must submit a pre-employment screening. The screenings will include criminal background check and other background checks (as needed), Family Care Safety Registration, drug screen, and an employment and education or licensure/certification verification. Various positions will require physical examination, Tuberculosis screening and Hepatitis A. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Our Mission

To bring the healing, help, and hope of Jesus Christ to those in need with a compassionate, caring presence.

Transforming lives and working to create a community where everyone has access to sustainable housing, employment, and healthcare.

Benefits
As a part of the Catholic Charities family, you'll have the resources to care for those closest to you. Options include generous parental leave policies, flexible working arrangements, group life insurance, permanent health insurance, and dedicated support to help you find the right child care or elder care.