What are the responsibilities and job description for the HELPS Housing Specialist - MHA048 - Mon-Fri 9AM-5PM position at WellLife Network?
About WellLife Network: WellLife Network is a leading health and human services organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families across New York City and Long Island. Recognized as a 2023 top-rated nonprofit, WellLife Network empowers people to overcome life’s challenges and achieve greater independence, well-being, and inclusion. We offer a comprehensive suite of programs spanning mental health, developmental disabilities, substance abuse, housing, and employment support, all grounded in a commitment to compassionate, high-quality care. Central to our mission is an unwavering dedication to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) within our organization and in the communities we serve. As a trusted community partner, WellLife Network fosters a nurturing environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and realize their fullest potential.
Position Summary: The HELPS Housing Specialist is part of a human service team that develops and executes housing plans, placement, and follow-up for referred clients. The Housing Specialist collaborates with the transitional coordinator to develop a housing plan and complete the housing packet and works to support the client to find and move into permanent housing. The HELPS Housing Specialist is responsible for collaborating with Welllife network intake department, transitional coordinator and clients to identify and secure permanent housing
Essential Responsibilities:
- Two days a week in office. 3 days per week in field work or remote work or as otherwise specified by Team Leader.
- Establish linkages and maintain solid working relationships with supportive housing providers, real estate brokers, managing agents, and landlords to identify new housing opportunities for clients.
- Maintain and update a database of available housing options with relevant details and document status changes/findings/activities and provide updates on new and total inventory on a weekly or more basis. Maintain consistent, transparent communication and sharing of relevant information with HELPS program partners.
- Ensure uniformity in maintaining fair housing standards in securing apartments.
- Confirm landlord and management company compliance in meeting the established housing laws, building codes, and lease agreements.
- Inform case management staff of unit readiness and/or problems with clients maintaining units.
- Work with Transitional Coordinator to identify and problem-solve barriers to permanent housing and assist with preparing clients for the housing process.
- Work with clients to assess for benefit eligibility, identify housing preferences to search for and match with opportunities, coordinate with the client for housing tours and/or interviews, collect necessary documents, and complete applications and paperwork.
- Work with Transitional Coordinator staff to resolve crises or conflicts with building owners, landlords, and management.
- Provide accurate, complete, and timely data entry and other documentation of findings, apartment unit status, inspections, readiness, and as needed, interactions and assessments with clients.
- Attend staff meetings, case conferences, group supervision, and professional development activities such as in-service trainings, seminars, webinars, and conferences as needed. Collaborate with other consortium partners as necessary.
- Support an environment that embeds diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA).
- Participate in workplace culture that inspires high-level performance, collaboration, accountability, and professional and respectful interaction.
- Employ best practices for effective feedback and communication at all levels of staff engagement.
- Perform all job-related tasks as required.
Other Responsibilities:
- Make community contacts with possible referral sources, clinics, in or outpatient departments, psychiatrist, day programs, etc.
- Make presentations at various outside agencies on an as needed basis.
- Maintain confidentiality at all times.
- Work locations and schedules are subject to change.
- Any additional duties as assigned by supervisor.
- High School diploma or equivalent.
- Bachelor’s in human services preferred.
- Three years of experience in the Behavioral Health field.
- Minimum of two years of experience in case management, tenant organization, counseling, community outreach and/or direct advocacy for clients in social service settings.
- Experience working with homeless individuals and people living with health and/or mental health issues and substance use a plus. Ability to engage residents.
- Knowledge and experience working supportive housing programs preferred.
- Computer literacy with advanced knowledge of Word, Excel, and Outlook.
- Familiarity with various referring and reporting databases.
- Willingness to travel throughout the five boroughs and make multiple visits in the community as needed.
- Demonstrated commitment to quality and data-driven reporting.
- Track record of effective collaboration within a direct service organization balancing a large caseload with competing priorities.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Action-oriented, entrepreneurial, flexible, and innovative approach to interacting with and supporting clients.
- Bilingual (or multi-lingual) preferred.
Benefits and Perks: At WellLife Network, we prioritize our employees' growth and well-being with a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, vision, and dental insurance, 401(k) matching, and flexible spending accounts. Enjoy perks like Summer Fridays, gym passes, and life insurance options. Our commitment to career advancement includes tuition assistance, mentorship, leadership training, and more. As a qualifying employer for Public Service Loan Forgiveness, WellLife Network supports your career and financial goals while helping you make a meaningful community impact. Join us to experience a workplace that invests in your success and well-being!
