Community Wellness Advocate - SRCC Maple

Summary

This position assists people experiencing homelessness who require behavioral health support or complex service coordination at the Skid Row Care Campus. The position provides crisis response and de-escalation and coordinates referrals to behavioral health, substance use treatment, healthcare, housing, and other supportive services in collaboration with Community Resource Advocates. They work with campus partners and external providers to ensure appropriate service connections and serves as a liaison to the Skid Row Action Plan (SRAP) Resident Councils, supporting participant events and data collection activities. This position documents service referrals and participant engagement in the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS).

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Provide behavioral health support by assessing individuals in crisis, using trauma-informed and de-escalation techniques, and supporting coping strategies to reduce risk and promote stabilization.

2. Assist participants by coordinating referrals to behavioral health, substance use treatment, healthcare, housing, and other supportive services, including scheduling appointments, transportation coordination, and advocacy.

3. Coordinate with external providers, campus partners, and co-located service teams to support integrated care and ensure appropriate service connections.

4. Conduct individual or small group activities focused on life skills and emotional support.

5. Document participant engagement, services, and referrals in the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) and ensure compliance with program reporting requirements.

6. Work with Community Resource Advocates to identify participants who need behavioral health support or complex service coordination.

7. Provide guidance to Community Resource Advocates on trauma-informed care and crisis response when behavioral health concerns arise.

8. Serve as a liaison to the Skid Row Action Plan (SRAP) Resident Councils to support on-site activities, including participant engagement and data collection.

9. Attend required meetings, trainings, and professional development activities.

10. Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

1. Bachelor’s degree in public health, behavioral health, social services, or a related field, OR five years of relevant experience in behavioral health, crisis intervention, harm reduction, outreach, or peer support, OR lived/living experience with homelessness, incarceration, or substance use.

2. Background supporting individuals experiencing homelessness with complex behavioral health or substance use needs.

3. Knowledge of crisis de-escalation, trauma-informed care, safety planning, and conflict resolution.

4. Ability to work effectively with high-acuity individuals in fast-paced, low-barrier environments.

5. Ability to coordinate referrals and connect participants to behavioral health, substance use treatment, healthcare, housing, and other supportive services.

6. Knowledge of recovery-oriented services, mental health treatment, harm reduction approaches, and community resources relevant to the Skid Row community.

7. Experience using HMIS and conducting assessments using the Coordinated Entry System (CES).

8. Ability to guide Community Resource Advocates and respond appropriately during behavioral health crises.

9. Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information in accordance with legal and ethical standards.

10. Valid driver’s license and ability to transport participants using agency vehicles when required.

Language and Communication Skills

1. Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred.

2. Strong communication and interpersonal skills when working with participants, staff, and community partners.

3. Clear and professional writing skills for documentation and reporting.

4. Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office and data entry systems.

Other Requirements

1. Current CPR and First Aid certification.

2. Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment in a fast-paced service environment.

3. Ability to adapt to changing work demands and participant needs.

4. Ability to work primarily outdoors in a courtyard setting and varying weather conditions.

5. Valid California Driver’s License, proof of personal auto insurance, and ability to transport participants using company vehicles when required.

6. Valid government-issued photo identification.