Housing Navigator

About the Role

The Housing Navigator works directly with guests to remove barriers to housing and guide them through realistic, attainable housing plans. This role requires strong judgment, integrity, consistency, and follow-through, as decisions made directly impact safety, housing outcomes, and trust. This position is ideal for someone who understands housing systems, respects client autonomy, and can balance urgency with ethical practice.

Responsibilities

• Develop individualized housing plans that are realistic, measurable, and aligned with each woman's needs and readiness
• Navigate housing requirements, documentation, and eligibility across multiple systems and providers
• Advocate for guests while maintaining ethical standards, boundaries, and program expectations
• Coordinate with internal teams, community partners, landlords, and housing providers
• Support women with mental health challenges, substance use disorders, and trauma histories using a trauma-informed approach
• Assist guests with obtaining identification, income verification, and other required documents
• Monitor progress weekly and document case notes and outcomes accurately and on time
• Provide short-term crisis intervention and de-escalation when needed
• Transport guests in agency vehicles or personal vehicle (as required) to appointments, housing viewings, and services
• Participate in outreach, community meetings, and collaborative housing efforts

Requirements

• At least 2 years of experience working with homeless populations, including individuals experiencing mental illness, substance use, or complex trauma
• Working knowledge of housing systems, eligibility requirements, and community resources
• Strong documentation, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to remain calm, ethical, and focused in high-stress situations
• Commitment to trauma-informed, client-centered, and ethical practice
• Comfort holding boundaries while offering compassion and respect
• Valid Ohio driver's license, auto insurance, and a reliable vehicle are required
• Approximately 30% travel within the community is required
• Occasional evenings or Saturdays may be necessary to meet guest or program needs
• Ability to work across multiple sites when needed

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work or related field
• State licensure (LSW, LISW, LPC, LPCC)
• Experience with chronically homeless populations
• Familiarity with local housing programs and systems

Why This Role Matters

Housing Navigators are central to the YWCA's ability to manage Norma Herr Women's Center safely and effectively. Success in this role means women are housed faster, more safely, and with dignity, while systems are navigated ethically and responsibly.