Yolanda Jones-Thornton
Lithonia,GA
Summary
Dedicated human services professional with extensive expertise in information and referral (I&R), client assessments, and eligibility determination. Proven ability to engage individuals experiencing homelessness, seniors, and families, effectively identifying needs and connecting them to appropriate housing and supportive services. Proficient in conducting structured assessments, maintaining accurate client records, and collaborating with community partners to facilitate timely access to essential services. Strong background in rapid rehousing (RRH), permanent supportive housing (PSH), and housing transition programs, ensuring comprehensive support for vulnerable populations.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
Work History
Coordinated Entry Specialist
DeKalb County Continuum of Care
01.2025 - Current
- Conduct client assessments for individuals and families experiencing homelessness to determine eligibility, prioritize needs, and support appropriate referrals.
- Utilize Coordinated Entry and HMIS systems to track client information, document assessment outcomes, and monitor referral status.
- Identify employment-related and income barriers through assessment conversations and connect clients to workforce development, benefits, and supportive service resources.
- Collaborate with housing providers, workforce partners, and service agencies to ensure clients receive timely and accurate referrals to RRH, PSH, and supportive programs.
- Support housing transition efforts by coordinating referrals for move-in assistance through the Home ARP program.
- Assist with the Park 500 Housing Transition Program by helping clients navigate next-step housing options and connect to stabilizing resources.
ICCI (Integrated Community Care Initiative) Program Manager
DeKalb County Community Development
2024 - 2025
- Managed a $13 million ICCI Program grant distributed across seven agencies, ensuring compliance with federal and program guidelines.
- Developed and analyzed performance and financial reports to evaluate program effectiveness and outcomes.
- Conducted weekly onsite monitoring visits and provided technical assistance to partner agencies.
- Trained and supervised 311 Intake Coordinators to improve communication, service delivery, and customer satisfaction.
- Led community outreach initiatives that significantly increased client engagement and service utilization.
- Presented project updates, data-driven insights, and recommendations to leadership to support informed decision-making.
- Implemented performance metrics, risk management strategies, and project management methodologies to ensure timely and successful execution.
- Interdepartmental Time-Limited Position
Lead ADRC Community Information and Referral Specialist
DeKalb County Human Services
2023 - 2024
- Oversee daily operations of Information and Referral (I&R) services, supervising I&R Specialists and implementing procedural updates.
- Respond to client inquiries using active listening and needs-based assessments to provide accurate referrals and service coordination.
- Manage client data in ESP/WellSky and AIMS systems, conduct screenings, place clients on waiting lists, and coordinate follow-up.
- Represent the Office of Aging at outreach events and community meetings, educating the public on available services for seniors and caregivers.
- Serve as lead contact for the DeKalb County Transitions Program, collaborating with partner agencies via Care Options software under the Atlanta Regional Commission’s Community-Based Care Transitions Program (CCTP).
- Participate in Human Services Coordinator Committee grant reviews, evaluating proposals from nonprofit agencies and compiling results for executive review.
ADRC Community Information and Referral Specialist
DeKalb County Human Services
01.2018 - 01.2023
- Conducted comprehensive client intakes and provided compassionate, professional support to older adults and caregivers.
- Connected clients to community-based aging, health, and support services, including transportation and benefits assistance.
- Assisted clients with application completion and appointment coordination.
- Maintained consistent communication with county and state agencies through phone and in-person engagement.
Education
Bachelor’s Degree - Human Services
Georgia State University
High School Diploma - undefined
Southwest DeKalb High School
01.1992
Skills
- Information & Referral (I&R) Services
- Client Assessments & Eligibility Determination
- Needs Identification & Service Matching
- Housing & Supportive Services Referrals
- Client Tracking & Data Management (HMIS/WellSky/ESP)
- Coordinated Entry & Housing Navigation
- Rapid Rehousing (RRH) & Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) Knowledge
- Resource Allocation & Client Advocacy
- Trauma-Informed & Client-Centered Engagement
- Community & Interagency Collaboration
- Deadline oriented
- Teamwork and collaboration
Timeline
Coordinated Entry Specialist
DeKalb County Continuum of Care
01.2025 - Current
ADRC Community Information and Referral Specialist
DeKalb County Human Services
01.2018 - 01.2023
High School Diploma - undefined
Southwest DeKalb High School
ICCI (Integrated Community Care Initiative) Program Manager
DeKalb County Community Development
2024 - 2025
Lead ADRC Community Information and Referral Specialist
DeKalb County Human Services
2023 - 2024
Bachelor’s Degree - Human Services
Georgia State University