Community Support Specialist

Company Description
McClendon Center, founded in 1980, is a certified community-based service provider operating under the District of Columbia Department of Behavioral Health. As a leading not-for-profit organization in Washington, DC, the McClendon Center provides outpatient behavioral rehabilitation to the mentally ill by fostering creativity, promoting friendship, instilling independence, and providing an outlet for emotional growth and greater participation in the community.

McClendon Center operates programs in two locations, a day program near Metro Center and an outpatient service clinic in the NOMA section of DC. The Center has revenues of approximately $9 million, with contracts from the Department of Behavioral Health, three Managed Medicaid Organizations, and grants from various foundations.

McClendon Center is a respected and highly rated agency in the District of Columbia. The Center was the first independent mental health agency in the District to be accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

· Provides ongoing assessment of consumers’ wants and clearly identified needs, and facilitates the development and updating of the service plan and assessment and diagnostic review every 180 days with no gaps between plans.

· Assist and supports consumers in crisis situations.

· Assist consumers in applying for all benefits and entitlements, such as SSI, Medicaid, Section 8, energy assistance, and other eligible services.

· Assists consumers in locating and utilizing community resources, such as AA, self-help groups and recreational centers.

· Locate safe, sanitary and affordable housing for consumers that is appropriate for the level of care needed and provide support during transition from different types of housing.

· Accompany consumers to critical services when necessary, especially medication appointments and Center psychiatric appointments.

· Teach consumers to utilize public transportation and to apply for any reduced fares.

· Assist consumers in symptom self-management, monitor consumers’ compliance with medication, and any response, side effects, or medication problems.