Housing Support Specialist - GHVP

Position Summary:

This position will schedule, coordinate, and facilitate housing opportunities for consumers through housing development activities to include housing stability case management and skill building, community integration supports and advocacy toward the attainment of mainstream service supports appropriate to the needs and eligibility of each program participant.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Help complete applications of various rental housing resources primarily the Georgia Housing Voucher Program, as well as HUD funded programs administered by the Department of Community Affairs and local Public Housing Authorities
• Housing search activities to include the following: contacting prospective landlords to schedule initial application processes; schedule housing interviews for consumers; assist with rental application process
• Assist with transportation and system navigation skill to assist with documentation necessary to qualify for housing.
• Transport clients as deemed necessary. Transportation requirements should be limited to housing and job searches and occasional visit to relevant social service agencies.
• Help consumers meet tenancy obligations such as timely rent payments and other lease requirements
• Provide follow up services to consumers in maintaining their homes by providing periodic in-home visits
• Provide referrals and care linkage to help clients maintain contact with services for disability applications and employment
• Provie information and referral assistance regarding available support from appropriate social service agencies and/or community programs
• Assist in the development of and encourage adherence to a personal budget through proactive housing and budget counseling sessions; provide budget counseling and education to assist clients in establishing payment plans for bills and past debts to assist clients in obtaining and maintaining housing
• Assist participants in development of a strength-based/solution-focused individualized goal and action plan that promotes permanent housing and self-sufficiency; develop an effective, timely referral network in order to ensure ongoing direction and support as needed.
• Identify participant strengths and barriers to stability and assist participants to reducing barriers and linking to resources and services.
• Provide pro-active follow-up home visits to ensure stability and further progress towards self-sufficiency; this includes support, advocacy, reducing isolation, listening, problem solving, and identification of resources to assist with reintegration of participants in the community.
• Apply knowledge of residential lease contracts to educate clients of their rights and responsibilities.
• Maintain accurate daily logs records, monthly outcome reports, and files for each client.

Other Responsibilities:

• Maintain a complete working file providing activity documentation and copies of all corresponding paperwork.
• Attend and participate in monthly staff meetings with Regional Field Office and central Office of Supportive Housing, group supervision, and individual supervision as required by the program
• Attend and participate in trainings as required to promote ongoing professional growth and development
• Complete and submit incident reports to the Supervisor within 24 hours of an incident occurring as required by the program

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelors level degree in Social Work, Public Administration, or other related field. Proven experience can be substituted for formal education. Certified Peer Specialists are strongly encouraged to apply. Must have access to a personal vehicle and a valid state Drivers License

Preferred Qualifications:

1-3 years working in homeless services and/or working within the behavioral health field. Experience providing housing services and/or community mental health services. Knowledge of and/or proficiency with ClientTrack Homeless Management Information System and the Coordinated Entry process. A passion for connecting with people experiencing homelessness is a must.