Find & Apply For Community / Political Organizer Jobs in Auburndale, Florida

Grant-Funded Position:

This is a grant-funded role, and continued employment is contingent upon ongoing grant funding. This position serves as a Homeless Outreach Coordinator, providing field-based outreach, engagement, and housing-focused support to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The role centers on proactive street outreach, building trust with unsheltered individuals, completing assessments, and connecting clients to emergency shelter, housing programs, and essential services. This position supports Lee County's Coordinated Entry system, participates in Housing Outreach & Treatment (HOT) operations, and collaborates closely with local stakeholders to promote housing stability and long-term success for clients. What You Will Do Engage Individuals Experiencing Homelessness Locate and engage unsheltered individuals and families in streets, encampments, wooded areas, parks, and other public locations. Build rapport through consistent outreach efforts and repeated contact, emphasizing trust, empathy, and respect. Respond to requests for outreach from community partners and law enforcement agencies. Conduct in-person outreach during HOT events, severe weather operations, and on-call response needs. Assess Needs and Connect Clients to Services Complete comprehensive needs assessments and determine eligibility per federal, state, and local regulations. Assist clients with obtaining identification documents, benefits, and essential services, including IDs, birth certificates, Social Security benefits, and SNAP. Provide basic needs resources such as hygiene items, food, water, and essential supplies. Conduct in-person Homeless Verifications monthly with assigned clients. Support Housing Access and Stability Enter clients into the Coordinated Entry System using the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS). Develop individualized Housing Plans and track client progress toward stability. Coordinate with shelters, housing programs, and community organizations to secure both temporary and permanent housing. Advocate for clients in weekly By-Name List (BNL) meetings. Help clients navigate systems and support those unable to manage housing processes independently. Collaborate with Community Partners Work closely with local stakeholders including: Lee Health and jail re-entry programs Law enforcement agencies Lee County Schools Local nonprofits and faith-based groups Businesses and community organizations Documentation and Compliance Maintain accurate records, complete HMIS data entry, and generate reports in accordance with agency standards. Drive throughout the county regularly to provide outreach and support. Minimum Qualifications Candidates must meet any combination of education and experience equivalent to an Associate's degree in human services, social sciences, psychology, or a closely related field.

This may include:

An Associate's degree in a related field; or Two years of college-level coursework/training in human services or a related discipline; or Equivalent relevant work experience that substitutes for education on a year-for-year basis;

And:

Two years of social services or closely related experience Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record Preferred Qualifications Bachelor's degree in human services, psychology, social sciences, or a related field Experience with street outreach, homelessness services, crisis response, or housing programs Knowledge of Housing First practices and harm-reduction models Experience using HMIS or similar case management systems Bilingual preferred Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate is someone who: Is comfortable engaging marginalized individuals in informal, outdoor, or non-office settings Communicates compassionately, clearly, and professionally Stays calm and resourceful during crises or high-stress situations Works effectively with diverse cultural, racial, and socioeconomic populations Builds strong relationships and maintains consistent follow-through Can manage multiple priorities and document work accurately Values collaboration, team support, and community partnership Demonstrates empathy, patience, and flexibility in dynamic environments Fingerprint Screening Requirement This position requires a fingerprint-based background check, as required by law. The screening reviews criminal history and other legally permitted information. Applicants who do not meet the screening requirements will not be eligible for employment.

Learn more:

https://info.flclearinghouse.com

Work Schedule:

Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., with occasional evenings or weekends based on community needs. Regular countywide travel is required. Why Join Us? In this hands-on role, you will directly support individuals and families experiencing homelessness, helping connect them to shelter, resources, and long-term housing solutions. Your work strengthens community stability, enhances safety, and supports Lee County residents as they work toward healthier, more secure futures. You'll receive competitive pay, strong benefits, and a dependable retirement plan through the State of Florida, all while joining a dedicated team committed to high-quality service and meaningful impact. About the Department The Lee County Department of Human & Veterans Services (DHS) supports individuals and families in our community by providing programs that promote housing stability, economic security, and overall well-being. DHS connects residents with services such as homelessness support, housing assistance, veteran services, prevention programs, and community resources that strengthen self-sufficiency. The department is committed to treating everyone with dignity, compassion, and respect. By working closely with local partners, service providers, and community organizations, DHS helps ensure that people in Lee County have access to safe housing, supportive services, and opportunities to thrive. About Lee County Lee County is located in beautiful Southwest Florida and is home to over 800,000 residents. We are dedicated to serving our community with high-quality services and a focus on sustainability and innovation. Join us in making Lee County a great place to live, work, and visit. Find out more about Lee County at Lee County Government .