Outreach Specialist
reStart Inc., Kansas City, MO, United States
The Outreach Specialist engages individuals and families who are experiencing or at imminent risk of homelessness through proactive community outreach, eligibility screening, and service connection. Working closely with social service providers, benefit agencies, shelters, and other community partners, this role identifies eligible participants and links them to appropriate reStart programs and external resources.
This position maintains an active outreach portfolio of approximately 15 participants and provides short-term support, referrals, and follow-up to promote housing stability and successful service connections. The Outreach Specialist focuses on engagement, navigation, and coordination rather than ongoing case management.
Key Responsibilities Community Outreach & Engagement
Conduct field-based outreach to identify and engage individuals and families experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
Build professional, respectful relationships that foster trust and participation.
Collaborate with shelters, benefit agencies, and community organizations to coordinate outreach efforts.
Participate regularly in coordinated outreach and community collaboration meetings.
Represent reStart professionally in the community to increase awareness of available services.
Eligibility Screening & Program Access
Screen all outreach contacts for eligibility using approved program criteria and assessment tools.
Provide clear information about available services and enrollment requirements.
Assist with selection and onboarding of participants who qualify for services.
Service Navigation & Referral Coordination
Maintain an active outreach portfolio of approximately 15 participants for follow-up and service connection.
Assist participants in identifying immediate needs and short-term stabilization goals.
Develop and update goal plans that support access to housing and supportive resources.
Provide referrals to reStart programs and community resources, including shelter, rapid rehousing, and long‑term stabilization supports.
Coordinate continuity of services with partner agencies to ensure smooth transitions and appropriate handoffs.
Follow up to confirm participants successfully access referred services.
Documentation & Compliance
Maintain accurate and timely records of outreach activities, screenings, referrals, and participant interactions.
Enter required data into HMIS and other tracking systems in accordance with funder and agency standards.
Prepare reports and documentation as required.
Maintain confidentiality and adhere to all organizational policies and procedures.
Attend required agency meetings, supervision sessions, and professional development activities.
Work collaboratively with team members and community partners to improve service delivery.
Perform additional duties as assigned to support program operations.
Qualifications & Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, or related field preferred; equivalent experience considered
Minimum three (3) years of relevant experience in outreach, housing services, or community‑based support programs
Knowledge of local housing assistance systems, benefit programs, and community resources
Strong communication, engagement, and relationship‑building skills
Ability to work independently in field and office environments
Effective organization and documentation skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and electronic data systems
Must pass criminal background check and pre‑employment drug screening
Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and current automobile insurance required
Core Competencies
Community Engagement
Relationship Building
Resource Navigation
Professional Communication
Organization & Documentation
Problem Solving
Accountability
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
Frequent walking, standing, bending, and travel throughout the community
Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.
Combination of field‑based and office‑based work
Occasional evening or community events as needed
reStart Inc. Core Values & Attributes We seek team members who embody:
Mission Commitment:
Dedication to ending homelessness and inspiring hope.
Equity & Inclusion:
Practices fairness, cultural humility, and inclusivity in all interactions.
Integrity:
Upholds transparency, accountability, and ethical standards.
Collaboration:
Works cooperatively with team members, participants, and partners to achieve shared goals.
Solution‑Focused Mindset:
Approaches challenges with creativity and adaptability.
Professionalism:
Demonstrates respect, compassion, and accountability in all work.
Flexibility:
Adapts readily to changing needs and evolving community conditions.
Integrity:
Demonstrates accountability, transparency, and professionalism in all interactions.
Compassion:
Serves participants and colleagues with care, respect, and dignity.
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This position maintains an active outreach portfolio of approximately 15 participants and provides short-term support, referrals, and follow-up to promote housing stability and successful service connections. The Outreach Specialist focuses on engagement, navigation, and coordination rather than ongoing case management.
Key Responsibilities Community Outreach & Engagement
Conduct field-based outreach to identify and engage individuals and families experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
Build professional, respectful relationships that foster trust and participation.
Collaborate with shelters, benefit agencies, and community organizations to coordinate outreach efforts.
Participate regularly in coordinated outreach and community collaboration meetings.
Represent reStart professionally in the community to increase awareness of available services.
Eligibility Screening & Program Access
Screen all outreach contacts for eligibility using approved program criteria and assessment tools.
Provide clear information about available services and enrollment requirements.
Assist with selection and onboarding of participants who qualify for services.
Service Navigation & Referral Coordination
Maintain an active outreach portfolio of approximately 15 participants for follow-up and service connection.
Assist participants in identifying immediate needs and short-term stabilization goals.
Develop and update goal plans that support access to housing and supportive resources.
Provide referrals to reStart programs and community resources, including shelter, rapid rehousing, and long‑term stabilization supports.
Coordinate continuity of services with partner agencies to ensure smooth transitions and appropriate handoffs.
Follow up to confirm participants successfully access referred services.
Documentation & Compliance
Maintain accurate and timely records of outreach activities, screenings, referrals, and participant interactions.
Enter required data into HMIS and other tracking systems in accordance with funder and agency standards.
Prepare reports and documentation as required.
Maintain confidentiality and adhere to all organizational policies and procedures.
Attend required agency meetings, supervision sessions, and professional development activities.
Work collaboratively with team members and community partners to improve service delivery.
Perform additional duties as assigned to support program operations.
Qualifications & Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, or related field preferred; equivalent experience considered
Minimum three (3) years of relevant experience in outreach, housing services, or community‑based support programs
Knowledge of local housing assistance systems, benefit programs, and community resources
Strong communication, engagement, and relationship‑building skills
Ability to work independently in field and office environments
Effective organization and documentation skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and electronic data systems
Must pass criminal background check and pre‑employment drug screening
Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and current automobile insurance required
Core Competencies
Community Engagement
Relationship Building
Resource Navigation
Professional Communication
Organization & Documentation
Problem Solving
Accountability
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
Frequent walking, standing, bending, and travel throughout the community
Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.
Combination of field‑based and office‑based work
Occasional evening or community events as needed
reStart Inc. Core Values & Attributes We seek team members who embody:
Mission Commitment:
Dedication to ending homelessness and inspiring hope.
Equity & Inclusion:
Practices fairness, cultural humility, and inclusivity in all interactions.
Integrity:
Upholds transparency, accountability, and ethical standards.
Collaboration:
Works cooperatively with team members, participants, and partners to achieve shared goals.
Solution‑Focused Mindset:
Approaches challenges with creativity and adaptability.
Professionalism:
Demonstrates respect, compassion, and accountability in all work.
Flexibility:
Adapts readily to changing needs and evolving community conditions.
Integrity:
Demonstrates accountability, transparency, and professionalism in all interactions.
Compassion:
Serves participants and colleagues with care, respect, and dignity.
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