GAYLORD THOMAS
Grand Prairie,Texas
Summary
Experienced social service professional with a demonstrated history of working in the government and non-profit administration industry. Passionate about outreach, education, social service, judiciary, behavioral health, re-entry, criminal justice, housing, quality and customer service satisfaction.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Transition Liaison Manager - Mental Health/Substance Use
Dallas Metrocare Services
Dallas, TX
05.2023 - 04.2024
- Responsible for oversight of managing daily clinical operations of several mental health teams that includes Community Engagement Navigator Group, Transition Liaison Group, Community Partner Referral, Parkland Liaison and Preadmission Screening and Resident Review (PASRR) program in Dallas County
- Engaged with 50 plus nursing facilities to provide mental illness (MI) specialized services for seniors
- Interfaced routinely with RN Care Coordination Director, Clinical Managers and other site managers to ensure program operations are maximize at full capacity and efficiency
- Monitored progress on assigned projects to identify any issues or changes needed for successful completion.
- Collaborated with internal teams to develop new methods of outreach and engagement with external partners.
- Coordinated with inpatient treatment team, setting up and ensuring consumers receives psychiatric assessment, intake and/or hospital follow-up appointments
- Ensured that the team complies and meet agency performance metrics, productivity, late charting, minimum level of care, and training
- Assisted inpatient facilities, including emergency departments, behavioral health hospitals, state hospitals, residential treatment facilities and criminal justice system, in continuity of care arrangements for consumer referred to Metrocare Services
- Managed fiscal operations of programs including annual planning and developed monthly status reports
- Ensured program staff remains current on required training records and files
- Assisted with achieving monthly, targeted budget goals through effective management of revenue streams in collaboration with RN Care Coordination Manager
- Provided outreach and promoted access to services to Dallas communities including homelessness to those who are participating in mental health and substance use services
- Participated in, coordination, and/or attended community events such as health fairs and community forums as a representative of Metrocare Services
- Attended administrative meetings and participates in committees as requested
- Conducted special project assignments and studies as directed.
- Developed and maintained relationships with key stakeholders to ensure smooth communication between departments.
- Provided support in preparing reports and presentations for internal stakeholders.
- Assisted in the coordination of projects related to program development and implementation.
- Mediated conflicts between employees and facilitated effective resolutions to disputes.
Program Mgr. - Mental Health/Substance Use/Criminal Justice
North Texas Behavioral Health Authority (NTBHA)
Dallas, TX
01.2022 - 01.2023
- Responsible for oversight of the North Texas Behavioral Health Authority (NTBHA) CTI Program covering the following counties Dallas, Ellis, Hunt, Kaufman, Navarro and Rockwall targeting homeless population diagnosed with severe mental illness/substance use disorder connected to the criminal justice and healthcare system
- Oversaw the initial implementation & development of the CTI grant initiative
- Oversaw day-to-day management of operations involving staffing, training, reporting, and handling job duties for staff members when unavailable or out of the office
- Responsible for supervising qualified mental health professionals (QMHP) or licensed professionals in the community mental health field
- Managed budget and appointed staff to assigned tasks
- Established partnerships with law enforcement agencies, criminal justice, municipal courts, private/public hospitals healthcare, District Attorney's Office and Dallas County Public Defender's Office
- Managed and monitored team caseload management, weekly caseload supervision and provided community-based intensive case management service feedback.
- Provided leadership, insight and mentoring to newly hired employees to supply knowledge of various company programs.
- Managed program budgets and timelines, ensuring projects stayed on track and within allocated resources.
- Coordinated with internal stakeholders to ensure successful implementation of the program initiatives.
- Conducted regular meetings with team members to review progress and address any issues or concerns arising from the program execution process.
Social Service Coordinator - Court/Social Service/Criminal Justice
City of Dallas - City Attorney's Office - Community Court
Dallas, TX
03.2018 - 08.2021
- Conducted at risk needs assessments and supervisory case management to low level defendants for six months that are referred to South Dallas Community Court, Veterans Treatment Court, South Oak Cliff Community Court and Night Court
- Made recommendations to Prosecutors and Judges in reports based on defendant's need in court
- Administered the GAIN (or similar assessment tool) to all participants deemed eligible for court and input assessment information into case management system
- Met in person with defendants on a regular basis to formally and informally reassess their needs, coordinate services, address complaint resolution services and make appropriate referrals while being case managed or short-term counseled
- Engaged with one-on-one victims in domestic violence and submit Protective Orders to the Dallas County District Attorney's Office in partnership
- Oversaw operation of court programs involving collecting, creating, recording and/or maintaining participant's open/close case files, assessment information, referrals and other related materials for compliance purposes on a quarterly basis
- Worked closely with Judges, Prosecutors, court staff and City Clerks from all satellite community courts throughout Dallas communities to Night Court at the downtown Municipal Court Building, 2014 Main Street on a monthly basis
- Provided crisis intervention services if required and assist defendants with job search/placement, supportive services, housing and job training make related referrals
- Performed community outreach and recruitment to businesses, social service agencies, faith-based organizations, government agencies and educational institutions regarding services offered to individuals having class C misdemeanors in the criminal justice system
- Attend and participate in Homeowner Association (HOA), Neighborhood Association (NA), Budget Town Hall and Community Crime Watch meetings to promote public information regarding community courts.
- Researched, identified and resolved customer complaints in a timely manner.
Recreation Program Coordinator/Supervisor
City of Dallas - Parks & Recreation
Dallas, TX
01.2015 - 03.2018
- Responsible and accountable for multiple related projects directed to effective customer service, supervision of staff, record-keeping, van and maintenance inventory, Park Board reports, weekly audits on payments, upcoming community outreach events/activities and written reports/programming on After-School and Summer Camp Program operations.
- Assisted and/or oversaw recreation facility in absence of the Center Manager.
- Build credibility, establish rapport and maintained communications with internal and external stakeholders on multiple special event projects which included the strategic planning of events, identifying teams, vendors, security, marketing, and promotion focusing on recreational activities.
- Capitalized on resolving customer/citizen complaints/conflicts of interest regarding recreational leisure programs daily.
- Engaged in community public outreach planning with stake holders by educating the public about the annual Dallas Vegfest and It's My Park Day community events held at Kiest Recreation facility.
- Engaged in community public outreach planning with stake holders by educating the public about the annual Dallas ation on peer pressure, anti-bully, sportsmanship, respect of the law, and being a good law-biding citizen overall.
- Delegated assignments to staff for programming to senior citizens, afterschool and summer youth programs.
- Facilitated and coordinated with Fruitdale Home Association by hosting town hall neighborhood crime watch community meetings with DPD on a quarterly basis at Fruitdale Recreation facility.
- Worked closely with the CDBG (Community Development Block Grant) office in Parks & Recreation regarding grant administration for after-school and summer youth community programs at Fruitdale Recreation facility
- Provided exceptional customer services in a friendly professional manner at all times.
- Organized and facilitated recreational activities for all ages in a variety of settings.
- Assisted in the development and implementation of recreation programs.
- Maintained accurate records regarding program participation, budgets and supplies.
- Collaborated with other departments to coordinate special events.
- Ensured compliance with health, safety and security regulations at all times.
- Supervised staff scheduling for the recreation center operations.
- Served as a liaison between the organization and local vendors.
- Created a positive environment that encouraged team building among staff members.
- Adhered to established policies, procedures and guidelines when executing duties
Facilitator/Counselor (PT) - Criminal Justice
New Beginnings - Texas Dept. of Criminal Justice Regional Parole Office
Dallas, TX
01.2012 - 07.2016
- Facilitated and conducted presentations on a Criminal Justice government grant funded by State of Texas Dept
- Of Criminal Justice on domestic violence
- Taught intervention to groups court-ordered or mandated by Parole/Probation Officers to attend Domestic Violence workshop group sessions
- Worked closely with Parole/Probation Officers and District Attorney's Office regarding offenders with violent histories and mental health disorders involved with Domestic Violence
- Managed and maintained sensitive confidential records on file and provided monthly written probation/parole reports to appropriated judicial entity
- Counseled individuals, groups or families to help them understand problems, define goals, and develop realistic action plans.
- Coordinated with stakeholders to ensure all expectations were met during the facilitation process.
- Created a safe environment for participants to express their opinions without fear of judgement or criticism.
- Encouraged collaborative problem solving through active listening techniques.
- Provided timely follow-up after each session with participants, stakeholders, and other parties involved.
Act Team Community Support Specialist - Mental Health/Addiction
ADAPT of Texas, Inc.
Dallas, TX
12.2013 - 12.2014
- Provided case management to formal and informal ongoing clinical and non-clinical assessments of clients with mental health disorders and/or chemical dependency with criminal histories
- Advocated on client's behalf in Federal and/or County Court under the Out-Patient Competency Restoration Program by working closely with Judges, DA's Office, Public Defender's Office, medical experts, Mental Health Court, family members and Dallas County Jail Diversion in partnership
- Acted as the liaison between client, group home owners and communities by building relationships with families and community agencies
- Coordinated and investigated insurance verifications and transported clients to physician's office appointments
- Provided manage care to clients by monitoring and advising on issues such as household cleanliness, utilities, hygiene, nutrition, or infant care
- Worked closely with clinical staff, rehab staff, medical staff, nurse and psychiatrist on a daily basis
- Performed baseline assessments on clients at treatment facilities and/or Parkland Hospital ER/Psych Unit
- Participated in case reviews, consulting with the team caring for the client, evaluated the client's needs, planned for continuing manage care services and implemented person-centered individual treatment plans.
- Provided direct support to individuals with developmental disabilities.
- Facilitated communication between families and providers to ensure best possible outcome for each client.
- Attended workshops and trainings related to community supports services or topics relevant to clients' needs.
- Engaged in crisis intervention when needed by providing emotional support and calming techniques while ensuring safety of all involved parties.
Contract Specialist - Criminal Justice/Social Service
District Attorney's Office
Dallas, TX
07.2012 - 01.2013
- Conveyed with the Texas Governor's Office in collaboration on the behalf of the D.A.'s Office regarding federal/state government grant contracts on Violence Against Women Act Program.
- Worked closely with D.A.'s prosecutors and DeptOf Criminal Justice Jail Diversion Office by investigating families and/or community stakeholders that could provide support services for inmates with mental health disorders in Dallas County Jail system
- Assisted D.A.'s prosecutors by conducting research on behavioral health disorders in Criminal Justice System on recidivism
- Conducted community outreach efforts to initiate and collaborate with various community stakeholders by addressing support efforts for inmates with mental health disorders in Dallas County Criminal Justice System.
Director - Permanent Housing/Social Service/Criminal Justice
CitySquare, Inc.
Dallas, TX
02.2010 - 04.2012
- Provided clinical supervision and delegated assignments to staff while engaging community outreach with stakeholders by addressing the homeless population concerning behavioral health disorders, primary care, disabilities and criminal justice system
- Completed and managed federal contracts on a multi-project involving negotiation on housing rehabilitation over 100 units, furnishing, increase clientele to 100%, logistic planning, staff growth, and development of policy procedures within 60 days from a 90 day mandate set by HUD
- Conducted research and investigated law/code/housing compliance by collaborating with City of Dallas Code Compliance, Police and Fair Housing Department concerning adhered to city's policies within city limits
- Administered and managed all components of grant application contracts of HUD that included compliance and reporting; participate in grant audits, reviews and development
- Oversaw housing operation and worked closely with staff involving domestic violence; conflict resolution; collaboration with local authorities regarding criminal assaults; mental health disorders and substance abuse.
- Directed the organization's daily operations, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
- Identified opportunities for improvement in operational performance metrics.
- Developed policies and procedures to ensure compliance with corporate standards.
- Created detailed plans outlining timelines, goals, budgets, staffing needs and other requirements for projects.
- Guided and motivated staff to drive maximum performance.
- Coordinated activities with other departments to expedite work and improve interdepartmental performance.
- Supported work-life balance to improve staff morale.
- Delegated work to staff, setting priorities and goals.
Executive Director - Job Training/Mental Health/Disabilities
Citizens Development Center
Dallas, TX
03.2008 - 08.2009
- Oversaw operation and administration of the non-profit organization
- Provided oversight of all departments to ensure compliance with established policies and procedures.
- Provided staff leadership and support to the Board of Trustees in strategic planning, governance, fundraising and board meetings
- Lobbied and secured funding from public and private sources through grant writing activities or fundraising efforts.
- Led project development of receiving $63k employment assistance to veterans with mental health disorders and disabilities for the agency.
- Cultivated relationships with key stakeholders, including board members, donors, sponsors, partners, and community leaders.
- Served as spokesperson at press conferences or interviews when needed.
Executive Assistant/Project Management
City of Dallas - City Manager's Office
Dallas, TX
11.2004 - 03.2008
- Served as project leader on assigned low risk, low effort projects in City Manager's Office using methodology and processes to assigned processes to assigned projects in order to achieve the City's organizational goals
- Managed and handled complex administrative functions related to supporting executive leadership involving high initiative, problem-solving and often task projects with limited supervision to be completed in a timely manner
- Excelled at gathering feedback information from customer/citizens requests involving conflict resolution on various problems or inquires, provided interpretation of policy and conducted follow-up on service problems or inquiries services
- Provided diplomatic communication to executive leadership, elected officials and other senior level management within city government
- Engaged with outside agencies, executives, consultants, vendors and citizens concerning city government business
- Established and maintained a collaborative working relationship with internal and external customers by providing responsive customer services
- Assigned by executive leadership to create, develop, manage and oversee a city-wide pilot project on prisoner reentry for the City of Dallas
- Drove continuous improvement of project delivery process by providing strong leadership.
- Managed and ensured that City Staff and Parole Officers with Texas Dept Of Criminal Justice provided quality services to clientele involving employment assistance, housing, education, crisis intervention, counseling, medical, mental health disorders and recovery support services.
- Organized and managed resources to ensure successful completion of projects.
- Cultivated relationships with key stakeholders by providing timely updates on progress towards objectives.
- Resolved conflicts between different teams working on a single project by leveraging strong interpersonal skills.
- Communicated with key stakeholders to determine project requirements and objectives.
Education
Master of Arts - Counseling
Prairie View A & M University
Prairie View, TX08-2005
Bachelor of Arts -
Prairie View A&M University
Prairie View, TX12-1991
Skills
- Stakeholder
- Community Outreach
- Team Collaboration
- Community Engagement
- Housing assistance
- Criminal Justices
- Project Planning
- Activity Planning
- Strategic Partnership
- Meeting facilitation
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Transition Liaison Manager - Mental Health/Substance Use
Dallas Metrocare Services
05.2023 - 04.2024
Program Mgr. - Mental Health/Substance Use/Criminal Justice
North Texas Behavioral Health Authority (NTBHA)
01.2022 - 01.2023
Social Service Coordinator - Court/Social Service/Criminal Justice
City of Dallas - City Attorney's Office - Community Court
03.2018 - 08.2021
Recreation Program Coordinator/Supervisor
City of Dallas - Parks & Recreation
01.2015 - 03.2018
Act Team Community Support Specialist - Mental Health/Addiction
ADAPT of Texas, Inc.
12.2013 - 12.2014
Contract Specialist - Criminal Justice/Social Service
District Attorney's Office
07.2012 - 01.2013
Facilitator/Counselor (PT) - Criminal Justice
New Beginnings - Texas Dept. of Criminal Justice Regional Parole Office
01.2012 - 07.2016
Director - Permanent Housing/Social Service/Criminal Justice
CitySquare, Inc.
02.2010 - 04.2012
Executive Director - Job Training/Mental Health/Disabilities
Citizens Development Center
03.2008 - 08.2009
Executive Assistant/Project Management
City of Dallas - City Manager's Office
11.2004 - 03.2008
Master of Arts - Counseling
Prairie View A & M University
Bachelor of Arts -
Prairie View A&M University
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