Diversion Specialist

Essential Functions: Conduct comprehensive assessments of families facing homelessness to understand their needs, strengths, and resources. Develop individualized diversion plans in collaboration with families, focusing on alternatives to shelter, such as mediation with landlords, family reunification, financial assistance, and community-based resources. Provide immediate crisis intervention services to families at risk of homelessness, offering support and guidance to de-escalate situations and prevent displacement. Assist families in accessing community resources, including housing assistance programs, employment services, childcare, healthcare, mental health services, and other relevant support systems. Advocate on behalf of families to access housing resources, entitlement programs, and social services, ensuring their rights and needs are recognized and addressed. Facilitate negotiations between landlords, family members, and other stakeholders to resolve conflicts, negotiate rental agreements, and secure stable housing options. Administer financial assistance programs, including rental assistance, security deposits, utility payments, and other emergency funds, to prevent homelessness and support housing stability. Provide ongoing case management services to families, including goal setting, monitoring progress, and making necessary adjustments to diversion plans to address emerging needs and challenges. Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation of client interactions, assessments, service plans, referrals, and outcomes in accordance with program requirements and confidentiality standards. Collaborate with other service providers, community agencies, government entities, and housing partners to coordinate services, share resources, and maximize support for families experiencing housing instability. Conduct outreach activities to raise awareness about diversion services and housing resources available to families in need and provide education and training on homelessness prevention strategies to community members and stakeholders. Participate in program evaluation activities to assess the effectiveness of diversion services, identify areas for improvement, and contribute to the development of best practices in homelessness prevention. Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and competence in working with diverse populations, respecting the unique backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences of each family served. Respond to emergencies and crises as needed, following established protocols and procedures to ensure the safety and well-being of families and staff. Engage in ongoing training and professional development activities to enhance skills and knowledge related to homelessness prevention, case management, trauma-informed care, and other relevant areas. Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or a related field. Relevant work or lived experience may be considered in lieu of formal education. Previous experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness, low-income individuals, housing programs, or social services is highly desirable. Familiarity with local housing resources, tenant rights, and fair housing regulations. Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with clients, landlords, and community partners. Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and adhere to professional ethical standards. Ability to work independently, maintaining attention to detail and meeting deadlines. Proficient use of computers, basic office software, and data management systems to track service delivery and internal agency functions. Demonstrate empathy, patience, and a non-judgmental approach when engaging with clients. Knowledge and understanding of working with diverse populations, including people with disabilities. Strong conflict resolution and crisis management skills. Demonstrated ability to find constructive solutions for complex client challenges while encouraging client participation and motivation. A reliable means of transportation, including a valid Oklahoma Driver's License, a clean motor vehicle record, and auto insurance coverage that meets the minimum requirements set by the agency. Ability to pass a criminal background check and Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check. Desire to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals experiencing homelessness. Tolerance for a fast-paced work environment.