Director of the PEACE Program

This position was created in 2021 in recognition of national data regarding increasing numbers of older adults, and challenges within the local homeless and behavioral systems to identify affordable, accessible housing solutions to meet the needs of frail and/or older adults.  The PEACE Program staff serve as experts on older adult care and housing options; and help to navigate individuals to the most appropriate, least restrictive housing setting.  The Director of the PEACE Program has 3 direct reports, the unit consists of 14  full-time staff.This position is a leadership position in the Housing Services Division at OHS.   Housing Services includes development, coordination, and oversight of the following programs and inventory:  Homelessness Prevention, Diversion and Intake; Emergency and Transitional Housing; Rapid Re-housing; Supportive Housing; Facilities; Clearinghouse; Coordinated Entry; and Landlord Affairs.Essential FunctionsDevelop, implement and track annual goals relating to the PEACE ProgramIdentify barriers and innovate solutions to barriers to admission to appropriate long term careActively and assertively market the program to community-based independent living, personal care, and nursing homesAdvocate for individual participants as neededOrganize and schedule quarterly meetings of the PEACE Advisory Committee; set agendas, ensure communication with the committee, and follow up on requests for additional information or opportunities to advance the work through the committeeDevelop and nurture strong relationships with key stakeholders including Mayor’s Office on Aging, Philadelphia Corporation on Aging, Senior Law Center, CARIE, Center in the Park, Liberty Resources, Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbilities Serve as the Department’s expert on older adult housing and long-term care optionsServe as the Department’s expert on older adult policy changes and resources, including the work of the Administration for Community Living, Independent Living Centers, Aging and Disability Resource Centers, Federal Housing and Services Resource Centers, etc.Serve as the go-to program for advice and technical assistance for individuals with complex needsExplore partnerships with innovative stakeholders to close the gap of frail, elderly individuals and their medical and affordable housing needsSupport and coach staff, hold staff accountable to high standards of customer service and responsivenessAssess outputs and outcomes from the shelter-based Health Care Aides; recommend changes, improvements, etc.Oversee participant level data entry and data quality in the Client Track systemProvide monthly reports on program progressCoordinate with internal colleagues to provide appropriate housing alternatives for frail and older adults who need higher levels of careDevelop policies and procedures for program developmentEstablish criteria for consideration to programEstablish relationships with service providersOversee clinical coordinator, social worker, and administrative coordinators.Keep OHS/DBH abreast of program development and provide quarterly reports on progressCollaborate with OHS, DBH, and ombudsman to ensure positive outcomes for clientsMaintain records/documentation of clients transitionedEnsure PEACE preferred provider network is maintained and new ones addedWork with CBH leadership to optimize geographic alignment for mental health services at the preferred provider levelDevelop/maintain process for undocumented clientsDevelop/maintain process for guardianshipDevelop, implement, and maintain Quality Assurance Program for PEACEOther duties and responsibilities as assigned.CompetenciesExcellent communication skillsCollaboration skillsAbility to plan and organize workCommitment to evolve and improve existing processesKnowledge, Skills and AbilitiesKnowledge about the needs of older adults is required, as well as the systems of care they utilize: primary care, hospitals, community based waivers, domiciliary care, personal care, nursing homes.Knowledge about homelessness and behavioral health systems strongly preferred.Strong knowledge basis in program management with the ability to structure tasks and coordinate with internal and external partners.Demonstrated skilled track record in program development, program management, and performance management.Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates, government officials, and the general public.Proficiency in computer applications, including Microsoft Office 365 (Word, Excel, Access, and Outlook), Adobe Acrobat, etc.Work-LifeWorking hours are generally 37.5 hours per week. Currently, this position would be expected in person at least 2 days per week.