Housing Specialist - Domestic Violence Programs

POSITION REQUIREMENTS, EDUCATION & ESSENTIAL SKILLS

• Assess clients’ housing needs and develop an individualized plan to secure safe, affordable housing.
• Assess clients’ eligibility for government-financed housing programs, including subsidies, and benefit programs.
• Assist clients to secure and complete applications for permanent housing.
• Identify, and assist clients to obtain relevant documents needed for applications for permanent housing.
• Provide individual counseling, advocacy and support to clients.
• Develop and facilitate educational workshops and groups focused on housing (including available housing resources, apartment search techniques, mock interviews, and other best practices).
• Develop and maintain a database of resources, including a listing of brokers, landlords, and management companies.
• Engage in community outreach efforts to identify housing opportunities.
• Develop and maintain relationships with government partners, and supportive community-based organizations.
• Participate in team meetings, case conferences and meetings with prospective brokers and landlords.
• Serve as a resource to the shelters’ social services department staff.
• Represent URI at city and statewide coalitions, task forces and committees related to housing.
• Participate in monthly staff meetings, case conferences and training seminars conducted to enhance one’s skills.
• Aid in the preparation of reports and program evaluations.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• High school diploma plus two (2) years of relevant training and experience, including experience working with victims of domestic violence; or Bachelor's degree in health or human services.
• Minimum of one year counseling experience and two years of experience in housing development/management, real estate or case management.
• Demonstrated sensitivity and experience with and/or knowledge of domestic violence within and against disenfranchised communities including individuals whom identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and/or HIV-affected, the elderly and individuals with mental health issues.
• Excellent communication skills, the ability to write and record case documentation, skills in group counseling, working knowledge of women’s issues, sensitivity to women’s needs, have a demonstrated ability to advocate and provide follow-up around housing issues, and able to conduct housing specific workshops.
• Knowledge and skills necessary to develop strong linkages with city and private housing agencies as well as the ability to secure permanent housing for homeless population.
• Able to be flexible with schedule as needed.

PAY RATE

$21.4286/hr - $26.5649/hr