Community Housing Case Manager

Shelter House was established in 1981 as a grassroots responder to the homelessness crisis in Fairfax County. Since the organization's inception, we have adapted and grown to meet community needs, all while working in partnership with government and private partners and community members. Today, Shelter House is a successful and reputable organization of over 200 employees committed to preventing and ending homelessness and domestic violence. In the last year, our compassionate team of individuals changed the lives of nearly 2,000 individuals, half of which were children. Our Culture is built from our Core Values of Inclusivity, Collaboration, Accountability, Respect, and Empowerment (iC.A.R.E.).

About the Role

The Case Manager will work with 15-20 families in our Prevention and Rapid Rehousing Programs. This work is community based. The Case Manager will support the housing first model with a trauma informed care approach that will maximize the likelihood of client success and long-term self-sufficiency with the primary goal of assisting Singles & Families with obtaining and maintaining housing.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive assessments and screening of each household's housing history, barriers, physical and mental health, social needs, education and employment goals, financial management skills, and overall strengths and needs
• Assist clients in achieving long-term housing stability by ensuring compliance with lease agreements and developing Individualized Housing Sustainability Plans
• Meet regularly with assigned households to provide individualized case management services and referrals that promote housing stability
• Provide housing navigation support, including identifying available housing options, facilitating landlord engagement, and assisting with the lease-up process
• Assist clients in completing required financial documentation and paperwork throughout the eviction process to avoid homelessness
• Complete rental assistance packages from various funding sources, properly document fund distribution, and lead the recertification process as needed
• Mediate conflicts involving households, roommates, or landlord-tenant issues that may threaten housing stability
• Support clients in creating and maintaining household budgets and developing strong money management skills
• Serve as the primary point of contact for landlords and foster positive, ongoing relationships
• Maintain reliable and consistent contact with households, even when they relocate or change phone numbers, to ensure ongoing engagement and support
• Timely documentation of all contacts with clients in client file and HMIS or identified database as required within 48-72 hours of interaction
• Participate in collaborative meetings with representatives from Fairfax County OPEH, faith-based, community-based, and partner organizations to deliver coordinated, wraparound services
• Assist clients overcome common barriers to securing housing, such as large rent arrears, low credit history, and gain better understanding landlord-tenant rights
• Develop and maintain a comprehensive Resource Directory of local and state service providers
• Maintain accurate, thorough, and timely case documentation in HMIS or identified database and client files, in accordance with agency standards and best practices
• Collaborate as a contributing member of a multidisciplinary team with Shelter House staff and community partners
• Demonstrate and uphold the Shelter House core values of iCARE: Inclusivity, Collaboration, Accountability, Respect, and Empowerment
• Perform other duties as assigned to support program and agency objectives

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in human services or related field or commensurate experience
• 1+ years of human services or direct services experience
• Ability to prioritize competing priorities and make sound judgements
• Ability to advocate, assist in problem-solving, and achieve results for families
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Valid Driver's License and reliable transportation
• Flexibility to work outside of normal business hours when needed

Physical Requirements

• Annual TB Test is required
• Ability to sit or stand for long periods
• Ability to lift items weighing 10-20 pounds

Pay

$52,000 to $56,000

Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
• 401K contributions with a 4% employer match
• 13 Paid Holidays, 2 Floating Holidays and the opportunity to take your Birthday Off
• Four Annual Employee Engagement Events