Transitional Housing Specialist

Job Title: Transitional Housing Specialist

Job Summary:The Transitional Housing Specialist will work to specifically address the housing needs of victims of trafficking by implementing a housing program to increase access to Transitional Housing and retain safe, long-term housing options. Using a Housing First Model, they will work alongside survivors to understand their housing needs, how we can work together to meet them, and connect them to voluntary support services to address barriers to housing stability.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Review and approve all client applications for program participation while leading the appeal process for clients not selected for program admittance due to eligibility criteria and overall capacity.
• Complete intake paperwork with accepted clients to identify housing needs and priorities, create an individualized housing plan, safety planning, and complete all other forms in compliance with project requirements.
• Act as client advocate in securing appropriate housing, including master lease units, and client-driven housing searches and outreach to available units.
• For Master Lease units, have client sign authorization of background check, and request background check from established provider. Submit completed background check and client application to HASLC for approval.
• Determine the monthly funding source for all clients entering a master lease unit and submit for HTS Director/AAU Housing Coordinator approval.
• Facilitate rental agreements with landlords and ensure clients understanding of rental agreements, housing policies and procedures.
• Conduct the Welcome Meeting to explain program overview, participant rights, program guideline, safety, termination, grievance procedure, and important numbers.
• Once welcome meeting is completed assist client with move-in procedure. Move-in procedure may include working with property manager to get keys, move-in inventory, assistance getting DI Voucher for any needed items.
• Complete monthly check request forms for enrolled clients and submit to the business office, ensuring rental payment is received by landlord by rent payment due date. Monitor housing-related funds utilized to support clients in their housing stability; keep documentation of each instance of assistance
• Proactively offer voluntary supportive services to help clients achieve and maintain housing stability during program enrollment. Proactively offer voluntary follow up services to help Transitional Housing clients who secure permanent housing to maintain housing stability for a service delivery period on average 3 months, but limited to under 1 year.
• Respond to emergency needs or care of clients in crisis situations as needed
• Act as a liaison for all landlord-tenant issues, and proactively address issues between roommates.
• Monitor services by routinely checking in and meeting with clients to follow up on progress on individualized service plan.
• Conduct home visits regularly; at a minimum monthly to ensure safe living conditions.
• Connect clients to in-house and community resources that address their individualized needs
• Work in collaboration with community service providers to expedite services for clients.
• Understand and utilize a housing first model, including taking a victim-centered, low barrier/voluntary support services approach to services.
• Assist client with move-out procedure to include return of key, exit inventory, confirmation that client took all personal belongings.
• Provide housing screenings, housing support services, and other support services enrolled clients, and individuals at high risk of being trafficked/having been trafficked at the drop-in center.
• Collect data to track grant activities and assist HTS management in reporting, and grant writing.
• Develop rapport and communication with both property managers and program clients.
• Provide presentations and conduct other public relations activities related to housing as requested.
• Create and maintain a resource manual to include but not limited to services providers that address barriers to housing stability.
• Maintain working knowledge of all in-house housing programs, forms, and requirements, and coordinate with housing team/programs to provide a seamless experience for victims of trafficking. Assist with other housing programs, as needed.
• Provide crisis intervention services during business hours to trafficking victims, as needed.
• Represent HTS department at housing related meetings in the community.
• Participate in the UTIP Task Force General Body and/or subcommittees.
• Comply with all record keeping (i.e. case notes, client forms, etc.) requirements
• Attend and participate in agency staff meetings and trainings
• Report to work on time as scheduled; with a mandatory 30-minute lunch period.
• Perform other tasks as identified and assigned; this may include but not limited to general HTS case management, outreach and education activities, and interpreting and translating.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree preferred and/or equivalent work experience in human services field
• Ideal candidate would have Social Service Worker (SSW) license with knowledge/familiarity with the SPDAT assessment
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to handle multiple priorities
• Demonstrate empathy and utilize trauma-informed, victim-centered approaches to services
• Must have strong client service and human service skills
• Must have the ability to work under conditions requiring flexibility and team member response to crisis.
• High tolerance and respect for individual survival strategies while promoting ever-increasing healthier choices.
• Demonstrated appropriate decisiveness and creative problem-solving when making decisions regarding next steps for cases
• Ability to follow directions, manage time, work well under pressure, and maintain composure during stressful situations
• Access to a personal vehicle, proof of valid driver’s license, auto insurance, current registration, good driving record and pass a background check is required. Must pass a background check.
• Preference given to candidates with Spanish/English fluency

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $20.00 - $22.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 403(b)
• 403(b) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Mileage reimbursement
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Experience:

• Case management: 1 year (Preferred)

Language:

• Spanish (Preferred)

Work Location: In person