Housing Advocate

JOB TITLE: Housing Advocate
POSITION: Housing Advocate (HAP)
STATUS: Full-time
CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt
REPORTS TO: Housing Advocacy Program Manager
PAY RATE: $25.20

POSITION SUMMARY:
Under the supervision of the Housing Program Manager, the Housing Advocate provides comprehensive supportive services to youth transitioning from or formerly in the care of the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), as well as to families seeking stable, affordable housing. This role is responsible for implementing a multidisciplinary approach to promote self-sufficiency and long-term housing stability. Services may include job training, employment support, educational assistance, financial literacy and budget management, legal advocacy, personal counseling, independent living skills, health care navigation, childcare coordination, parenting support, and substance use treatment referrals. The Housing Advocate also acts as a liaison to housing providers, social service coalitions, and regional planning bodies to advance housing equity solutions throughout Will County.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES AND KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conduct comprehensive family intakes and assessments to develop individualized support plans and determine ongoing needs
• Utilize the Continuum of Care’s Coordinated (CoC) Entry System to facilitate client intake, notification, and prioritization for services
• Maintain detailed and accurate case documentation using the mPact Pro database and related filing systems in accordance with program requirements
• Maintain consistent and responsive communication with clients through appointments, phone calls, and email to ensure engagement and follow-up
• Provide direct housing support services, including rent and utility assistance, eviction prevention, and access to other available emergency resources
• Educate and equip client households with tools for self-sufficiency, including life skills, budgeting, and connections to supportive services to reduce risk of future homelessness
• Accompany clients to housing-related appointments and, when necessary, serve as interpreter or advocate to assist with navigating service systems and accessing benefits
• Refer clients to appropriate internal and external resources, maintaining updated information on local agencies and support programs
• Build and maintain partnerships with housing providers, including landlords, property managers, and apartment complexes, to expand access to affordable and compliant housing options
• Negotiate with housing providers, as needed, to advocate for participants—this may include persuading participation in regulated programs, securing unit holds, or arranging flexible payment plans
• Develop and maintain a landlord/property database with real-time information on unit availability, eligibility requirements, rent ranges, public transportation access, and landlord criteria
• Leverage housing networks, including the HUD-VASH Voucher Program, Subsidized Housing Programs, market-rate landlords, and other Housing Assistance Programs, to expand housing access and stabilize placements
• Actively participate in the local CoC, including general assembly meetings, committee work, best-practice discussions, and trainings to stay aligned with regional housing strategies
• Establish and strengthen interagency partnerships, identifying new community resources and maintaining effective referral pathways for participant benefit
• Contribute to agency reporting, ensuring accurate and timely submission of monthly and quarterly data as required by program and funding mandates
• Participate in ongoing professional development, including relevant trainings, workshops, and certifications
• Engage in community events and outreach activities to strengthen SCC’s presence and connect with potential partners and service recipients

MINIMIUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, human services, applied behavioral science, or related field preferred
• Fluent in reading, writing and speaking in Spanish and English
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a social services or related agency
• Must be able to pass a criminal background check
• Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of housing programs (HUD, CoC, subsidized housing), eviction prevention, and local social services
• Experience working with individuals and families in crisis or sensitive situations, with an understanding of trauma-informed, client-centered, and strength-based practices
• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey information clearly and compassionately across diverse audiences
• Professionalism in managing competing priorities and maintaining composure during high-pressure or fast-paced situations
• High degree of cultural sensitivity and ability to work effectively with families from diverse racial, socio-economic, ethnic, faith and educational backgrounds
• Skilled in providing support through advocacy and coaching approaches that empower participants
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and client databases (e.g., mPact Pro, CES)

PHYSICAL AND WORK ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS

• Regular travel to open houses in Kane, Kendall, Grundy and surrounding counties, as well as a second site in Kankakee
• Ability to sit, stand, or walk for extended periods
• May involve occasional evening or weekend work depending on client needs and events

WORK SCHEDULE:

• Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm
• Evenings as needed
• Weekends as needed

Work Location: In person

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $25.20 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Application Question(s):

• Are you willing to undergo a background check as a condition of employment?

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

• relative : 2 years (Required)

Language:

• Spanish (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Joliet, IL 60432 (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $25