Case Manager

The United Planning Organization (UPO) is the designated Community Action Agency for Washington, District of Columbia, and has served the residents of the District since 1962. Our Vision for the future is “UPO’s Washington: A city of thriving communities and self-sufficient residents”; our Mission is “Uniting People with Opportunities.”

UPO is committed to attracting and retaining outstanding and diverse staff who will enhance our engagement and service in our communities.

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply for this position or any other position currently advertised on our website. Please visit us at www.upo.org to view all of our vacancies and to learn more about our company and services.

Lead the assessment, planning, service coordination and supportive services, and referral activities for all PSH clients on their caseload. During this process, clients' strengths shall be recognized, and clients' needs shall be identified and addressed. Coordinate access to both formal, (i.e.; access to food, youth services that require entrance criteria) and informal resources (i.e.; community or peer support groups that do not require entrance criteria) to support clients in maximizing their quality of life and housing stability.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION:

Assess each client addressing the barriers to self-sufficiency and employment, including personal and financial issues, emotional and physical issues, career decision making and planning issues. Develop and update case management plans, biopsychosocial assessments in collaboration with the clients and within the required time frame. Make referrals, when necessary, to mainstream agencies based on the identified needs of clients for services such as emergency assistance; health and mental health; substance abuse recovery; parenting/life skills training; career/job readiness training; financial literacy counseling; employment placement; and tenant and landlord education. Monitor the progress of clients on assigned case load and maintain weekly contact with customers via case management sessions, telephone contact, home visits, etc. Complete case progress notes and update client files accordingly. Ensure that all progress notes of engagement activities, client contacts, and clinical notations are recorded in client electronic records in the Housing the Homeless QuickBase application administered by DHS within 48 hours of service delivery. Liaise with property management companies for PSHP clients to ensure living arrangements are suitable, maintenance repairs are timely, and that clients’ needs and concerns are addressed. Maintain case files documenting all supportive services, rental payments, and referrals identified and services delivered on behalf of the client. Assist clients with housing placement and relocation. Complete all housing applications with clients ensuring that the packet is comprehensive with all required documents. Prepare various reports as required, perform research for the program, and maintain relevant files. Monitor case notes documentation to track client progress and outcomes. Monitor clients’ compliance with their housing lease and PSH program rules on a monthly basis. Attend all required trainings and meetings including internal and external meetings with partners and funders. Become familiar with the agency mission and strategic plan goals and strategies. Update job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications; maintaining personal networks; and participating in professional organizations.

Other duties as assigned.

Documentation, Compliance & Data Management
Proficiency in maintaining accurate case notes, service documentation, and reporting in systems such as HMIS while ensuring compliance with program and funding requirements

Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, sociology, counseling, or related social service/science or healthcare related disciplines and two (2 years) of experience providing case management services. Certification and/or licensure in a relevant discipline (e.g., certified addictions counselor) may substitute for educational requirements. Master’s degree Preferred.

Knowledge of District of Columbia social service providers and community resources. At least 3 years of experience working with clients with mental health and substance abuse issues. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing. Excellent working knowledge of MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook and Power Point) and ability to use/learn electronic time-keeping program.

Demonstrated ability to work in a service environment for difficult to manage clients. Must be able to work sensitively and effectively with individuals of diverse educational, socio-economic, and cultural backgrounds. Able to work some evenings and weekends. Must have reliable transportation to travel to various sites where work is performed.

Ability to create positive, long-term working relationships by demonstrating a commitment to teamwork and customer service by consistently exhibiting tact, dependability, diplomacy, and flexibility. Bilingual preferred.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

In the event that an offer is extended, the candidate will be required to successfully complete a criminal background check and/or FBI fingerprinting, and pre-employment drug screening as applicable for the position.

WORKING REMOTELY: Yes; 1 day after six months of employment or dependent on needs of the program