Program Specialist/Recovery Specialist in Latrobe, Pennsylvania at Westmoreland Community Action

Description:

POSITION SUMMARY

The Recovery Specialist/Program Specialist will conduct prison in-reach, complete assessments, develop individualized transition plans, and provide intensive case management and resource navigation. This role follows evidence-based practices aligned with the Assess, Plan, Identify, Coordinate (APIC) model and Transition from Jail to Community (TJC) principles. This position is central to WCA’s Recovery Re-Entry Program, which aims to reduce substance misuse and recidivism by strengthening continuity of care.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS/DUTIES

1. In-Reach & Assessment

• Conduct regular in-reach at Westmoreland County Prison to engage individuals preparing for release
• Complete comprehensive assessments, including:
  • Substance use screening
  • Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) assessments
  • Coordinated Entry (CE) assessments
• Identify needs related to housing, employment, healthcare, transportation, and recovery
• Any and all other duties as assigned by WCA Program Management

2. Case Management & Transition Planning

• Develop individualized, person-centered re-entry and recovery plans
• Provide intensive case management services to enrolled participants
• Maintain an active caseload not exceeding approximately 30 participants at a time
• Conduct pre-release planning to ensure continuity of care upon re-entry

3. Resource Navigation & Service Coordination

• Connect participants to community-based resources, including:
  • Substance use treatment and recovery programs
  • Recovery housing and emergency shelter
  • Workforce development and employment services
  • Food, clothing, identification documents, and transportation supports
• Facilitate “warm handoffs” to service providers to ensure successful engagement

4. Follow-Up & Support

• Maintain consistent participant engagement through structured follow-ups at:
  • 30, 60, 90, and 180 days post-release
• Monitor participant progress and adjust service plans as needed
• Provide coaching, encouragement, and ongoing recovery support

5. Collaboration & Partnerships

• Coordinate closely with Westmoreland County Prison staff, including the Population Manager
• Participate in community partner meetings and collaborative networks
• Work with local service providers to ensure coordinated, non-duplicative care

6. Data Collection & Reporting

• Maintain accurate and timely documentation in WCA’s data system (empowOR)
• Track:
  • Assessments completed
  • Services provided
  • Referrals made
  • Participant outcomes
• Prepare reports for program leadership and county partners as required

7. Quality Assurance & Program Fidelity

• Ensure services align with APIC and TJC model guidelines
• Participate in supervision, case reviews, and continuous quality improvement efforts
• Maintain compliance with all grant requirements and WCA policies

Requirements: EDUCATION, REQUIREMENTS, EXPERIENCE AND/OR SKILLS· Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, Criminal Justice, or related field OR equivalent experience· Minimum of 2 years experience in:

• Case management
• Substance use/recovery services
• Re-entry or justice-involved populations

Preferred Qualifications· Certified Recovery Specialist (CRS) or willingness to obtain certification within one year of employment· Experience working with incarcerated or formerly incarcerated individuals· Knowledge of local recovery, housing, and social service systems· Trauma-informed care trainingRequired Skills & Competencies· Strong interpersonal and engagement skills· Ability to build trust with justice-involved populations· Excellent organizational and documentation skills· Ability to manage multiple cases and priorities· Cultural competency and nonjudgmental approach· Strong problem-solving and resource coordination skillsWorking ConditionsCombination of office, community-based, and correctional facility settingsRegular travel between WCA and Westmoreland County PrisonFlexible schedule may be required to meet participant needs