Job Description
Job DescriptionAbout MHA
MHA – Mental Health Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people live their best life. We provide a wide range of services across Western Massachusetts, including outpatient therapy, substance use recovery, supports for individuals with developmental disabilities or brain injuries, and residential and housing programs. MHA serves individuals impacted by mental illness, substance use, developmental disabilities, brain injuries, and homelessness. Our mission is rooted in inclusion, dignity, and empowering people to lead fulfilling, independent lives.
About the Division of Supportive Housing (DSH)
MHA’s Division of Supportive Housing (DSH) provides safe, stable housing and individualized wraparound services for individuals who have experienced chronic homelessness. Many of the people we serve are also navigating challenges related to substance use, incarceration, or trauma.
DSH programs are designed to support long-term stability and help individuals successfully transition to independent, permanent housing. Through person-centered care, housing navigation, and community-based supports, we empower each individual to build a foundation for recovery, self-sufficiency, and a better quality of life.
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Position Summary
The Case Manager provides trauma-informed, person-centered support to individuals in substance use and/or mental health recovery who have a history of homelessness. This role involves assisting participants as they transition from homelessness into their own studio apartments within a congregate supportive housing site. Once housed, the Case Manager continues to provide ongoing support to help participants achieve their goals—such as stabilizing income, strengthening coping skills, accessing medical care, and pursuing employment. The Case Manager is also responsible for completing documentation accurately and in a timely manner. This position will be based on-site at Chestnut Crossing but will spend a significant amount of time in the community working directly with participants and will regularly travel to MHA’s Main Office in Chicopee.
Pay Rate: $20 an hour
Open Shift: Monday through Friday 9am-5pm (40h)
Key Responsibilities
- Coordinate all documentation required for program entry, including but not limited to: homelessness verification, substance use assessments, eligibility screenings, and obtaining IDs, birth certificates, social security cards, income verifications, etc.
- Complete initial Adult Comprehensive Assessments, updates, and service plans.
- Collaborate as part of a multidisciplinary team to develop Individualized Action Plans (IAPs), utilizing participant voice, choice, strengths, and needs.
- Implement strategies outlined in the IAP and document progress as required.
- Develop, monitor, and revise safety plans in collaboration with participants and the team.
- Adjust support based on individual needs.
- Assist participants with the transition to stable housing.
- Maintain strong communication with staff at Chestnut Crossing.
- Support tenants in navigating responsibilities such as apartment maintenance, communication with property management, and understanding housing regulations.
- Support participants in seeking and maintaining employment, vocational training, or education.
- Educate and assist participants in accessing public benefits and resources (e.g., Social Security, EAEDC, SNAP, PVTA, Fuel Assistance).
- Encourage community integration by helping participants access public spaces, support groups, recreational activities, and vocational programs.
- Promote skill development in areas such as ADLs, money management, transportation, and social participation.
Equal Opportunity Statement
The Mental Health Association is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Requirements
- Valid driver’s license, adequate automobile insurance, and reliable transportation.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Capacity to adapt to the evolving needs of participants.
- Must be at least 21 years of age and able to obtain/maintain CPR and First Aid certifications.
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Minimum of six months of relevant experience required.
- Experience working with individuals with mental health/substance use challenges or housing instability, preferred.
Benefits
- Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
- Retirement Plan (403B, IRA)
- Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
- Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
- Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
- Long Term Disability
- $20 an hour