What are the responsibilities and job description for the Housing Counselor position at ActionAIDS?
About Us
Action Wellness started as ActionAIDS in 1986 when a group of dedicated volunteers came together to support their community at the beginning of the HIV epidemic. Today, staff provide a range of trauma-informed services to help persons with HIV and individuals with substance use disorders at risk of acquiring HIV achieve physical, emotional and economic well-being.
Job Summary
The Housing Counselor provides critical support to individuals living with HIV/AIDS by delivering housing-focused services, including housing counseling, Housing Medical Case Management (MCM), and placement into subsidized rental units throughout Philadelphia. This role is part of a transitional housing program designed to help clients secure affordable and/or subsidized permanent housing within a 48-month timeframe.
Priority is given to individuals currently experiencing homelessness. The Housing Counselor works closely with clients, service providers, and housing partners to identify appropriate housing options, remove barriers to placement, and promote long-term housing stability.
Essential Functions
- Identify and secure residential rental housing units within the local Fair Market rent for clients, prioritizing affordability and long-term stability.
- Conduct initial and annual housing inspections to ensure compliance with NSPIRE standards and habitability requirements.
- Build and maintain productive relationships with landlords and property managers to support housing access and retention.
- Facilitate lease renewals and assist with negotiation of terms when necessary.
- Administer rental subsidies for cost-burdened participants in accordance with program guidelines.
- Connect clients to resources for moving expenses, furniture, home supplies, and other essential needs.
- Advocate on behalf of clients in resolving housing-related issues and mediating with landlords when needed.
- Support clients in obtaining and maintaining affordable housing, including assistance with applications and housing navigation.
- Apply with clients and maintain their status on multiple permanent housing program waitlists.
- Maintain housing inspection certification and complete all required training to ensure compliance with program and regulatory standards.
- Maintain and update resource databases related to landlord/property manager networks, fair market rent data, financial counseling tools, and vocational service opportunities.
- Complete and submit all client contact documentation and referral paperwork within established time frames outlined in program protocols.
- Accurately document contact with assigned clients according to caseload requirements and agency guidelines.
- Complete monthly reports, progress notes, and documentation in accordance with agency and funder requirements.
- Prepare and submit monthly reports and service documentation as required by agency and funders.
- Create, maintain, and regularly update comprehensive client files, including documentation of housing progress and service delivery.
- Provide financial education and counseling, focusing on budgeting, credit, and personal finance.
- Link clients to vocational training and employment opportunities to support economic independence.
- Educate clients on tenant rights and responsibilities to promote successful tenancy.
- Participate in staff meetings, individual supervision, and group supervision as part of the Action Wellness team.
- Attend required trainings and professional development activities to maintain program knowledge and service quality.
Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, or a related field is required.
- Minimum of three (3) years of experience in housing counseling, case management, or supportive services for individuals affected by HIV/AIDS, homelessness, or poverty.
- Knowledge of NSPIRE housing inspections, financial counseling, and vocational services is strongly preferred.
EEO and ADA Statement
Action Wellness is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employee(s) with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.
Work Location, Hybrid Information & Pay Range
Based out of our Kensington office, Hybrid remote after 90 days
Annual pay range: $49,000-52,000
No phone calls please.
Salary : $49,000 - $52,000