PLEASE INCLUDE RESUME AND COVER LETTER WITH APPLICATION

ORGANIZATIONAL BACKGROUND:

INSTEAD (Integrated Navigation Services to End Arrest & Detention) is a program at Ubuntu Village NOLA that focuses on recommending alternatives to prosecution and incarceration through a person-centered community-based diversion program. The program offers participants intensive case management that focuses on fostering trust-based relationships and making connections to quality resources in their communities. We are led by and work alongside those who are most impacted by systemic racism, violence, and incarceration. Together, we’re creating the thriving village we all need and deserve.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

As an Alternatives to Incarceration Social Worker, you will be part of a participant-centered team that works to remove our participants from the criminal legal system via participation in diversion. INSTEAD uses a coordinated system of assessment to identify youths and adults living with Serious Mental Illness and/or Substance Use Disorder who are eligible for diversion from incarceration and criminal prosecution. INSTEAD staff are passionate and persistent advocates for our participants who focus on participants as unique individuals. An Alternatives to Incarceration Social Worker’s role involves weekly engagement with participants to create tailored case planning, facilitate releases from jail, coordinate referrals, perform wellness checks, navigate healthcare, social benefits, and legal systems while thoroughly documenting work with participants.

JOB DUTIES:

Caseload Management:

• Manages assigned caseload of ~15 participants as assigned by the Program Coordinator
• Supports participants’ navigation of social service agencies and various criminal legal system actors, including attending appointments and court dates with participants
• Offers transportation assistance to participants
• Prepares reports and documents regarding participant progress for both criminal legal stakeholders and internal use, including gathering documentation of services from participants and providers

Legal Advocacy:

• Meets with participants at Orleans Justice Center and in the community to complete biopsychosocial intakes and create service plans
• Facilitates participants’ release from jail and connection to appropriate agencies and services
• Prepares monthly status reports for criminal legal stakeholders
• Collects and reviews participant records and prepare documents supporting diversion advocacy and bail modifications as needed

Program Development:

• Documents work through the INSTEAD case management system, assisting in presenting INSTEAD’s work/data internally and externally when appropriate
• Networks and develop relationships with various service providers to better assist our participants and create a network of quality referral sources
• Attends weekly team meetings in-person and engages in case review rounds
• Meets with the Program Coordinator regularly to review caseload and receive consultation and feedback

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Masters of Social Work (MSW) from accredited program
• Social work license (CSW, RSW, LMSW, LCSW) active in the state of Louisiana

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Ideal candidates should have at least one year of practical experience in in-community case management, street outreach, peer support, or equivalent role
• Candidates should be comfortable conducting interviews, assessments, or evaluations with participants
• Candidates should strong interest in chronic mental illnesses and the criminal legal system
• Candidates must be interested in and competent at working with underserved and marginalized communities from diverse cultural, racial, and ethnic backgrounds
• Candidates must have a vehicle and be comfortable transporting participants in their vehicles when needed (mileage reimbursement provided)
• Ideal Candidates should have experience gathering medical and other records
• Candidates must have the ability to work independently as well as in a team-driven environment, including working in-person 3+ days a week at our office in the Broadmoor neighborhood
• Candidates must have competent computer skills, including the ability to master case management software, word processors, cloud storage, and Google Cal/Gmail

Position is 40/hrs weekly includes PTO, holidays, health, dental, and vision insurance

Salary begins at $55,000/year

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location: In person