What are the responsibilities and job description for the TENANT SUPPORT SPECIALIST position at Catholic Charities Family and Community Services?
General Description
Under the supervision of the Director of Prosperity Services, the Tenant Support Specialist will assist individuals and families with housing access to housing support. These housing supports are intended to create housing equity, accessibility, safety, and sustainability. The Tenant Support Specialist will provide pre-tenancy and tenancy sustaining services to qualified Medicaid Managed Care Members for up to 6 months. The Tenant Support Specialist will collaborate directly with clients to assess their housing needs, provide guidance on available resources assist with applications, documentation and landlord communication. This position also effectively supports ongoing and collaborative communication amongst all program staff and is responsible for supporting a culturally competent & trauma informed environment for clients and teammates.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
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Pre-tenancy Services
- Assists with navigating complexities of housing applications by supporting the client with tenant screening process, completing rental applications, negotiating lease agreements, and preparing for attending tenant interviews.
- Assists with housing search and application process, including contacting prospective housing options for availability and information.
- Researches the availability of rental assistance.
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Tenancy Sustaining Services:
- Aids client in securing housing.
- Assists in maintaining and sustaining tenancy by providing tenants’ rights education and eviction prevention.
- Supports with linkage to free or affordable legal services for clients facing hosing related issues.
- Connects clients with available resources that assist in establishing bank accounts and paying bills.
- Links client to social services, assist with applications and documentation.
- Connects client to appropriate intervention services to address circumstances or behaviors that may jeopardize housing.
- Assists client with resolving landlord and/or neighbor disputes to reduce risk of eviction.
- Supports with lease renewal and housing recertification process.
Housing Transition & Navigation:
o Ensure living environments meet legal requirements and client needs and are prepared for move-in..
o Support clients in moving into and setting up new housing units, including referrals for household supplies.
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Community Outreach
- Collaborates with other social service agencies, community organizations and programs to identify housing opportunities
- Builds and maintain database of housing opportunities
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Documentation and Reporting:
- Maintains accurate client records
- Generates regular reports on program activities and impact.
- Program Support:
- Supports overall operations of Community Resources Services
- Other duties as assigned
Qualifications
Education: Associate’s degree preferred
Experience: At least one year experience with housing and rental programs preferred
Experience in administrative or clerical roles, preferably in a government or social services setting.
Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
Excellent organizational and time management skills.
Knowledge of relevant regulations and guidelines (if applicable).
Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- A relevant combination of education and experience will be considered.
Additional Requirements:
- Ability to use Microsoft Office applications including Outlook, Word, and Excel.
- Ability to manage caseload, prioritize tasks.
- Knowledge of local housing options, rental laws and program eligibility
- Ability to build rapport with clients from diverse backgrounds
- Excellent communication and follow-up skills
- Ability to problem solve and create solutions
- Ability to maintain confidentiality.
- Ability to demonstrate behaviors and attitudes which support agency mission, philosophy, and policies.
- Willingness and ability to foster agency and program wide cooperation and teamwork through use of positive/constructive communication techniques,
