Gillespie Center Program Director

Position Summary:

The Gillespie Center Program Director is a management position of Homes with Hope (HWH) in Westport, CT, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. The Program Director is responsible for the operation of the agency's emergency shelter for single persons, the Gillespie Center for men (15 beds) and Hoskins' Place for women (4 beds). The position reports to the Vice President/ COO.

Responsibilities:

Case Management:

Shares caseload of 19 shelter residents with existing case manager using a Housing FirstService Model approach. Document case notes and update client information in CT/HMIS and internal systems. Monthlyattendance at the Coordinated Access Network (CAN) Meetings.

Scheduling and coordination with Norwalk Community Health Center's Health on Wheels Bus (HOW). Serves as a client advocate, coach, and resource in obtaining benefits and supportive services. Develops and maintains relationships with various local social service providers for the benefit of clients served. Works with the VP/COO to ensure that program is operated in compliance with local, state and federal guidelines, funding contracts and outcomes measures, including those of the CT Department of Social Services. Maintains accurate case notes, documentation and files for all clients served. Places the welfare of HWH clients in matters affecting them above all other concerns and delivers kind and humane treatment to all regardless of race, creed, sex, disability, age or sexual orientation.

Staff Management: Supervises and works collaboratively with the shelter's case manager and 24-hour residential staff. Participates with the VP/COO in hiring competent program/residential staff, motivating and leading staff, and measuring their performance with regular performance appraisals. The Program Director is also responsible for terminating staff when necessary, in compliance with Connecticut labor laws and the policies of HWH. Administrative/managerial record-keeping as required.

Facility Management: Includes the sanitary and safe operation of the shelter. The Program Director must work with the VP/COO and property manager on general maintenance needs/repairs. All staff are required to alert property management to building problems as they arise.

Volunteer Management: Works with VP/COO to arrange and supervise volunteers as needed.

Administrative duties: Manages or accomplishes administrative functions regarding the facility, staff and program including but not limited to; electronic record keeping and reporting, client charts and with the VP/COO orders office/program supplies or food if necessary.

Outreach: Regular attendance at the Norwalk Hospital's Community Care Team (CCT). Networks with partner agencies. May be required to represent the agency at community events, meetings and agency fundraisers.

Qualifications:

• Master's Degree (M.A.) in social work or related field.
• Three to five years of residential program experience in program and staff management.
• Demonstrated experience working with a diverse population.
• Comfort with statistical reporting and data systems.
• High professional and ethical standards in working with a fragile population.
• Knowledge of government benefits, regulations and local resources impacting homelessness.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent time management skills.
• Proficient in use of computers, Microsoft Office including Outlook, HMIS software and internet for research.
• Ability to work in a team atmosphere with other managers.
• Strong ability to effectively resolve immediate conflicts and crises.
• Must be able to interact with the public; be people and results-centered.
• Bilingual speaker a plus.