What are the responsibilities and job description for the Case Manager position at United Way Of East Central Iowa?
Help individuals move from homelessness to stable, permanent housing. The Commons on 16th is seeking a compassionate and organized Case Manager to provide person-centered support to residents on their housing journey. Working from a Housing First and trauma-informed approach, this role helps residents develop individualized goals, access community resources, overcome barriers, and secure stable housing. The ideal candidate is passionate about serving others, skilled at building relationships, and committed to creating lasting positive outcomes for individuals experiencing homelessness.ESSENTIAL SKILLS:Knowledge of Housing First, trauma-informed care, harm reduction, motivational interviewing, and strengths-based case management.Familiarity with HUD homeless assistance programs, Coordinated Entry, HMIS, Rapid Rehousing, Permanent Supportive Housing, and mainstream benefits.Strong knowledge of landlord engagement, housing navigation, and tenancy support.Excellent communication, organization, and documentation skills.Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining high-quality resident engagement.Strong problem-solving, advocacy, and crisis intervention skills.Proficiency with Microsoft Office and electronic case management systems.ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:Housing Stabilization & Case ManagementConduct comprehensive biopsychosocial and housing needs assessments upon program enrollment.Develop individualized Housing Transition Plans with each resident within established program timelines.Maintain regular contact with assigned residents through scheduled case management meetings.Monitor resident progress toward housing stability goals and update service plans as needed.Assist residents in overcoming barriers to obtaining and maintaining permanent housing.Utilize motivational interviewing, trauma-informed care, and person-centered practices to promote resident engagement and self-determination.Permanent Housing PlanningDevelop and implement individualized long-term housing transition plans for every resident.Assist residents with housing applications, landlord engagement, lease preparation, and housing searches.Coordinate referrals to Rapid Rehousing, Permanent Supportive Housing, Housing Choice Vouchers, affordable housing providers, and other permanent housing opportunities.Support residents with move-in planning, budgeting, tenancy preparation, and transition to independent housing.Coordinate housing exits to ensure successful and sustainable placements.Resource CoordinationConnect residents to healthcare, behavioral health, substance use treatment, employment services, education, transportation, legal assistance, income supports, and other community resources.Coordinate services with healthcare providers, community agencies, and multidisciplinary partners.Advocate on behalf of residents to reduce barriers to housing stability and access to services.Participate in multidisciplinary staffing meetings to coordinate resident care.Resident EngagementBuild trusting professional relationships while maintaining appropriate boundaries.Encourage participation in life skills development, employment, education, recovery services, and community integration.Support residents in developing independent living skills, financial literacy, conflict resolution, and tenancy success.Provide crisis intervention and de-escalation as needed while coordinating with operational staff during emergencies.Documentation & ComplianceMaintain timely, accurate, and complete case documentation within HMIS and other required data systems.Complete program assessments, service plans, case notes, referrals, housing documentation, and outcome tracking.Ensure documentation complies with agency, funder, and confidentiality requirements.Monitor program performance measures related to housing placement, retention, and resident outcomes.CollaborationWork collaboratively with the Staffing Director and Resident Support Specialists to ensure coordinated resident care while maintaining appropriate role boundaries.Coordinate with the Homeless Systems Manager regarding resident progress, housing outcomes, and program improvement opportunities.Participate in case conferences, multidisciplinary meetings, and quality improvement initiatives.Develop collaborative relationships with landlords, property managers, community providers, healthcare organizations, and partner agencies.Other DutiesParticipate in required trainings and professional development.Assist with program evaluation and continuous quality improvement efforts.Perform other duties as assigned.QUALIFICATIONS:High school diploma or GED required.Technical training or certification in building maintenance, facilities management, construction, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, or related field preferred.Minimum of three (3) years of experience in building maintenance, facilities management, property management, construction, or related field.Experience coordinating contractors and preventative maintenance programs preferred.Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.Ability to successfully complete all required background checks.