Description

POSITION REQUIREMENTS, EDUCATION & ESSENTIAL SKILLS:

• Assess clients’ housing needs and develop an individualized plan to secure safe, affordable housing.

• Assess clients’ eligibility for government-financed housing programs, including subsidies, and benefit programs.

• Assist clients to secure and complete applications for permanent housing.

• Identify, and assist clients to obtain relevant documents needed for applications for permanent housing.

• Provide individual counseling, advocacy and support to clients.

• Develop and facilitate educational workshops and groups focused on housing (including available housing resources, apartment search techniques, mock interviews, and other best practices).

• Develop and maintain a database of resources, including a listing of brokers, landlords, and management companies.

• Engage in community outreach efforts to identify housing opportunities.

• Develop and maintain relationships with government partners, and supportive community-based organizations.

• Participate in team meetings, case conferences and meetings with prospective brokers and landlords.

• Serve as a resource to the shelters’ social services department staff.

• Represent URI at city and statewide coalitions, task forces and committees related to housing.

• Participate in monthly staff meetings, case conferences and training seminars conducted to enhance one’s skills

• Assist with reports and program evaluation.

• Perform other duties as assigned by the Shelter Program Director.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma plus two (2) years of relevant training and experience, including experience working with victims of domestic violence; or Bachelor's degree in health or human services.

• Minimum of one year counseling experience and two years of experience in housing development/management, real estate or case management.

• Demonstrated sensitivity and experience with and/or knowledge of domestic violence within and against disenfranchised communities including individuals whom identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and/or HIV-affected, the elderly and individuals with mental health issues.

• Must have excellent communication skills, the ability to write and record case documentation, skills in group counseling, working knowledge of women’s issues, sensitivity to women’s needs, have a demonstrated ability to advocate and provide follow-up around housing issues, and able to conduct housing specific workshops.

• Additionally, possess knowledge and skills necessary to develop strong linkages with city and private housing agencies as well as the ability to secure permanent housing for homeless population.

• Must have ability to be flexible with schedule as needed

• Employee must be computer-literate and must have knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.

  Pay Rate: $23.07/ hr - $25.27/ hr

Qualifications

Education

Required

• High School or better

Preferred

• Bachelors or better in Human Services