Youth Housing Support Specialist

1 week ago


Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States AYA Youth Collective Full time
Job Overview

Salary: $41,000+/year

Equal Opportunity Employment:

Aya Youth Collective is committed to fostering an inclusive environment. We encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those who identify as queer, trans, non-binary, Black, Indigenous, people of color, disabled, parents, and/or immigrants, to apply. We recognize the importance of lived experiences and the value they bring to our mission.

Position Summary

The Housing Resource Specialist is essential in assisting young individuals in their transition from homelessness to stable housing. This role focuses on collaborating with program participants to remove obstacles to housing stability, such as employment, income enhancement, mental and physical health support, transportation, childcare, and community involvement. The objective is to avert recurring homelessness and foster self-sufficiency.

Key Responsibilities
  • Design and execute personalized service plans tailored to the distinct needs of each young individual receiving Rapid Re-Housing support, encompassing mental health, healthcare, and employment services.
  • Conduct thorough assessments to identify clients' specific needs, barriers, and available resources.
  • Engage weekly with youth to collect information regarding their housing history, income, and other critical factors necessary for developing a customized re-housing strategy.
  • Assist clients in locating appropriate housing options that align with their financial capabilities and preferences.
  • Build and maintain relationships with landlords, property managers, and housing providers to secure safe and affordable housing solutions for clients.
  • Guide clients in accessing rental assistance programs, subsidies, and other financial resources.
  • Support clients in formulating and managing budgets to ensure sustainability of their housing post-re-housing.
  • Facilitate educational workshops that empower youth with knowledge on housing searches, budgeting, and tenant/landlord rights and responsibilities.
  • Advocate for clients to access essential support systems and connect them with relevant community resources.
  • Address any crises or challenges that may arise during the housing process, including eviction issues and tenant/landlord disputes.
  • Provide timely interventions to prevent housing instability and ensure ongoing housing security for clients.
  • Maintain accurate and current client records, including assessments, case notes, and progress documentation.
  • Compile data on re-housing outcomes and program effectiveness for reporting to stakeholders and regulatory bodies.
Qualifications and Experience
  1. General Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Social Work or a related field, or equivalent experience.
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience in case management, counseling, or a related field.
  • Experience working with diverse populations.
  • Familiarity with community agencies and resources serving at-risk groups.
  • Understanding of trauma-informed care and its application with high-needs youth.
  • Flexibility to work non-traditional hours as needed.
  • Ability to pass all required background checks.
  • Adherence to the agency's employment policies.
  1. Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with community prioritization tools and HMIS administration.
  • Familiarity with housing stabilization interventions, including rapid rehousing, prevention, diversion, and permanent supportive housing.
  • Relevant experience in homeless services and case management.
  • Knowledge of local housing markets and rental assistance programs.

Additional Requirements:

Willingness to participate in professional development activities and community events outside of regular working hours. Support additional initiatives and responsibilities as assigned by leadership.



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