Resident Advocate-Bristol

POSITION: Resident Advocate

PROGRAM/LOCATION: Motel Program - Bristol, Campbell, CA

SHIFT: Day, Swing, Grave

REPORTS TO: Motel Program Manager

STATUS: Regular Full Time, Non-exempt

COMPENSATION: $28.11/Hourly

ABOUT HOMEFIRST

Established in 1980, HomeFirst™ is a nonprofit organization passionately working to end homelessness. We serve the Bay Area community through low-barrier programming and systems leadership – meeting each person where they are by offering support and resources that address immediate and long-term housing needs. With nearly 45 years of experience, we view housing as a fundamental human right and understand that solving homelessness requires a collaborative effort.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Motel Program will provide interim shelter at five underutilized motels and hotels across the city of San Jose. The Bristol Motel Program (BMP) is intended to provide Emergency Interim Housing opportunities and is a referral-based only program with no drop-in services provided to the public. The BMP will support program participants by providing services to include case management, housing problem-solving, meals and other wraparound supportive services. These services are informed by a harm reduction philosophy with an emphasis on educating participants on how to avoid risky behaviors and engage in safer practices, including connection to evidence-based treatment options.  All sites may serve single adults and/or families.

The Resident Advocate is responsible for the overall day-to-day operation on site and responds to program participants needs on an as needed basis. They facilitate the flow of on-site amenities like access to clinical services, workshops, laundry supplies and food services ensuring each participant essential needs are met. They also ensure participant, staff and guest safety through regular check-ins and monitoring of the site grounds and sleeping units.

QUALITIES:

The Resident Advocate is committed to ending homelessness via the principles of Housing First and Harm Reduction. They demonstrate this commitment through their proactive and creative approach to program interventions and services. They recognize the time sensitivity required to support those in crisis to maintain or secure housing stability and exercise empathy toward those we serve. 

Ideal candidates are knowledgeable and sensitive to the needs of our unhoused populations. Enjoy practicing a strength-based approach in fast-paced and rapidly changing environments. Are welcoming and accepting of all backgrounds and beliefs without judgment or bias. Utilize highly developed communication skills, including demonstrated ability to effectively de-escalate and manage, including those who may be experiencing severe mental illness or may be intoxicated.

HomeFirst is a culturally diverse company in a similarly diverse community, and the Program Manager desires to work with people from various social and economic backgrounds. To that end, the Program Manager cultivates a connected and mutually supportive team.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS

The position reports to the Motel Program Manager

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Direct Client Service (90%)

• Responsible for the care, safety and supervision of program participants and guest
• Implement and enforce AHP guidelines and site rules
• Welcome all agency guests to the facility, including program participants, volunteers, staff, and community members
• Check guests into and out of the facility using the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS)
• Document all notes of services provided into HMIS within 3 business days
• Complete intake of potential participants including thorough and accurate VI-SPDAT assessments
• Work with participants to execute their personalized housing plan
• Provide direct guest support with developing, updating, and reassessing housing plans
• Make timely and appropriate decisions in emergency situations, including awareness of the need for safety of all participants involved, mandated reporting, and contacting appropriate staff/responding agencies
• Promote and lead weekly workshops for participants on site to include topics such as financial literacy, tenant rights and mediation, resume building, job search and credit repair, etc.
• Respond to guest crises using de-escalation and Mental Health First Aid techniques as applicable
• Adhere to HomeFirst’s service delivery practices, including Trauma Informed Care, client- centered practice, and Crisis Prevention Intervention model
• Complete and submit Incident Reports, Behavioral Contracts, and Gross Violations as needed
• Provide information, referrals, housing resources, and program support to program participants
• Distribute clothing, linens, toiletries, and any other items supplied by the program
• Restock program supplies and submit supply order request in a timely manner
• Inspect cabins and complete inspection sheets on site
• Support with participants treatment of property prior to move-in
• Provide general site clean-up, reporting any maintenance or janitorial needs to the Shift Manager or Program Coordinator in a timely manner
• Conduct room, facility, and perimeter checks
• Assist with set-up and break-down for any special events or activities
• Complete and file all paperwork in a timely manner
• Maintain professional conduct, attitude and appearance
• Communicate to and delegate tasks to next shift
• Maintain confidentiality regarding clients, personnel, and other internal agency affairs
• Conduct business according with employee handbook, exercising judgement and serving the best interests of the agency and community
• Maintain compliance with agency/EIH site policies and procedures
• Provide socialization skills- empathetic listening, problem solving, information and referral, mediation, crisis intervention
• Committed to treat each participant with respect and dignity
• Demonstrated conflict resolution skills

General (10%)

• Represent HomeFirst and the program appropriately to volunteers, donors, outside agencies and the public
• Assist with office-related tasks as needed
• Attend all mandatory meetings, workshops, and trainings
• Perform other general duties as assigned 

• The Resident Advocate is relentless in their commitment to ending homelessness via the principles of Housing First and Harm Reduction. They demonstrate this commitment through thoughtful, strategic program design and a scientific approach to performance improvement. Their participation in the continuous testing, analysis, and refinement of programs reflects their personal pursuit of excellence in all that they do.

BENEFITS

HomeFirst provides comprehensive benefits, including 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage and additional wellness options like chiropractic care, mental health support, pet insurance, and an Employee Assistance Program. We offer a 401(k)-retirement plan with generous matching, life and disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, commuter benefits, and workers’ compensation. Employees enjoy 12 holidays, sick leave, and PTO starting at 15 days annually, increasing with tenure, plus 4 hours of civic engagement leave annually to volunteer.

ORGANIZATIONAL EQUITY STATEMENT

At HomeFirst, diversity, equity, and inclusion guide our services, workplace, and decisions. Recognizing housing as a social justice issue, we prioritize equitable practices, honor lived experiences and uphold dignity for all. By fostering belonging, accountability, and continuous improvement, we embed DEI values in our processes, recruitment, and leadership, striving for excellence at every level.

HomeFirst is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by law. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with applicable federal, state, and local law. Additionally, HomeFirst participates in the E-Verify program, as required by law.

HomeFirst is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application process. If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, please let your recruiter know.

QUALIFICATIONS (YOU HAVE)

• AA degree (or equivalent of 2 years of higher education) or two years of field experience in social services
• Sensitivity to the needs of unhoused individuals
• Experience working with unhoused population

OTHER:

• Ability to regularly lift up to 30 lbs.
• Sensitivity to the needs of unhoused individuals and families
• Desire to continually develop skills and increase knowledge