CEES Rapid Re-Housing Advocate

Job Title: CEES Rapid Re-Housing Advocate
Department: Community and Economic Empowerment
Reports to: CEES Program Coordinator
Union Position: Yes
FSLA Classification: Non-Exempt
Salary Range: $19.00-$21.63 Hourly
Our Mission:
Cornerstone's continuum of service helps to create communities where individuals and families are safe and children thrive. We advocate, educate and lead the way to social change.
Summary of Cornerstone
Cornerstone is a $5.5 million organization that provides comprehensive services for individuals and families in the greater Twin Cities metropolitan area who are experiencing or have experienced domestic violence, sexual violence, human trafficking or general crime. Our offices are located in Bloomington, Brooklyn Center and Minneapolis. Learn more at www.cornerstonemn.org.
Diversity and Inclusion:
We are committed to a nondiscriminatory approach and provide equal opportunity for employment and advancement in all of our departments, programs, and worksites. BIPOC and LGBTQ+ community are strongly encouraged to apply.
Job Summary:
The CEES rapid Re-Housing Advocate is responsible for assisting Victims/Survivors in moving from homelessness to housing stability and connecting them with services within Hennepin County. This position will support victims/survivors who are attempting to flee domestic violence and obtain safe housing through Cornerstone's Rapid Re-Housing program. Participants must meet low-income eligibility guidelines, qualify under the Coordinated Entry process and be experiencing homelessness when seeking services. This position requires meeting eligible participants, at times, in homes and safe community settings in order to create access to services.
This position is currently operating as a hybrid position, with the ability to flex and work remotely. In-person/office expectations a minimum of 2 - 3 days a week.
Essential Functions

• Provide individual eligibility and needs assessments for Cornerstone (CAS) Rapid Re-Housing and/or other internal services for participants.
• Assist clients in their securing new housing through addressing rental and credit barriers, increasing income, submitting tenant applications, landlord mediation, and understanding tenant rights and responsibilities.
• Assist participants in enrolling in other CAS supportive services such as and not limited to Economic Education, Individual Development Accounts, Clinical Services, and Childcare.
• Provide transportation for participants as needed either individually or through public methods of transportation.
• Work collaboratively with the Rapid Re-Housing team on case management, through occasional coverage for PTO, brainstorming resources, offering support and creative solutions.
• Act as liaison with referring agencies and partners including other domestic violence providers, homelessness services and county case workers.
• Maintain complete and timely records in our database of eligibility & program enrollment, services provided, and participant goal progress.
• Work closely with other CAS advocates to ensure a streamlined process of internal referrals for participants accessing other program services.
• Completes other duties as assigned.

Preferred Experience & Skillsets
Minimum of 1-2 years of experience providing direct services, preferably assisting homeless individuals navigate the complexities of the social service system to address housing, financial, and other critical needs. Knowledge and experience in working with diverse, marginalized and underrepresented communities, and anti-oppression work. A Bachelor's degree in social work or related field or experience in the social service field are a plus.

• Experience providing direct services and advocacy to individuals and families experiencing domestic violence using a survivor-centered and trauma-informed approach.
• Strong knowledge and understanding of the interconnection between poverty, homelessness and domestic violence.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently and in team settings.
• Strong communication skills. Fluency in another language is a plus.
• Knowledge of and aptitude with Microsoft Office, web-based applications, and other related forms of technology.
• Valid driver's license, insurance and reliable vehicle encouraged.

Physical Requirements:

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to use manual dexterity for use of objects, tools or controls as well as visual acuity. The employee is required to stand; walk; sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, or crouch. The employee may be required to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, but can request assistance as needed. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities and those who may be Deaf/Hard of Hearing, to perform the essential functions of the position