Housing Specialist

POSITION TITLE: Housing Specialist 

POSITION REPORTS TO: Director of Social Services

HARLEM Lexington

ORGANIZATION

VIP Community Services is dedicated to changing lives and transforming our community. We offer a continuum of services to individuals with histories of chemical dependency. Our client-centered approach empowers people to take charge of their lives and discover their personal paths to self-sufficiency.

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POSITION SUMMARY: This position plays a pivotal role in ensuring that clients obtain permanent housing within acceptable timeframes, which results in the program's success in meeting its housing placement targets. Under the direction of the Director, this position will establish and track the housing status of all clients and ensure that housing packages are regularly sent to the DHS Housing Placement Unit for disposition. Facilitates all aspects of housing and discharge planning to ensure a smooth transition from Casa Esperanza to independent living for all clients participating in the program.

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

· Completes housing assessments on all new admissions in the program within 4 days of admission and prepare a discharge plan.

· Participates in case conferences and case reviews in collaboration with the case management team

· Escorts clients to housing appointments for the purpose of looking at the available apartment and assessing whether the apartment or unit is suitable for the client.

· Coordinates and assists with HRA 2010 E&F applications in a timely manner and vigorously pursue all available housing options for clients.

· Provides weekly reports documenting housing status of all clients within the facility

· Assists residents by identifying appropriate subsidy programs and facilitate the application and qualification process.

· Maintains and regularly update a data bank of resources for housing referrals.

· Identifies apartments, buildings and/or real estate agencies for resident referrals.

· Develops and implements workshops on independent living skills, application process and procedures, policies of NYC, Section8 (Federal), HASA, etc.

· Develops and facilitates support groups to assist the resident in adjusting to living independently.

· Participates in the follow-up and after care process treatment with the clinical team.

· Prepares monthly statistical reports and other data as required or indicated.

· Maintains appropriate documentation including summaries and notes are completed according to procedure.

· Networks with NYC Division of AIDS Services, (DAS) to secure rental Assistance and Certification for DAS Scattered Site supportive housing.

· Maintains contact with New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) public housing and Section 8 Housing. Request applications and submit with letter of support for assessment and possible certification.

· Networks with landlords and management to obtain affordable housing.

· Networks with Supportive Housing Program to obtain community bed information for referral to SRO Supportive Housing.

· Maintains professional working relationships with all staff, clients and visitors.

· Participates in educational sessions, retreats, agency meetings and other professional training as assigned.

· All other duties as assigned by the Director of Shelters or other authorized parties.

A. Participates in Job Training and Education Programs, Meetings and Committees:

· Attends mandatory in-service annually.

· Participates in various committees and meetings as requested, including DHS Housing Placement and related meetings.

· Attends seminars to further professional development.

· Maintains a high level of industry knowledge and keep the Director aware of changes required/recommended in agency operations.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:

· Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution preferred.

· Two years experience preferably in a residential treatment program.

· Possesses knowledge and ability to implement case management principles.

· Possesses knowledge of community resources.

· Possesses effective oral and written communication skills.

· Experience and knowledge of Windows computer systems and programs.

· Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

· Ability to handle multiple tasks and responsibilities.

· Ability to speak, read and write a foreign language a plus.

· Experience and knowledge of Windows computer systems and programs.

· Possesses knowledge and ability to do client intake requiring both assessment of client history concerning both short- and long-term needs.

JOB SETTING:

· Must possess sight, hearing and digital senses or use prosthesis that will enable the essential functions of the job to be completed.