Housing Specialist - Tukwila Springs - HS005

About the role

The Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) Coordinator works independently and collaboratively with multiple NARA NW teams and other agencies to provide housing placement and stabilization services to vulnerable Elders age 50+ who are homeless and whose health, behavioral health, and socioeconomic issues have prevented them from accessing and maintaining stable housing.

Responsibilities

• Outreach and engage individuals referred to the program who are currently without stable housing.
• Complete screening and intake processes.
• Assess the housing stabilization needs for each participating household and develop a participant-led housing service plan with each household.
• Absorb and address possible barriers to housing approval, access funding for move-in costs, and obtain furnishings for their home.
• Develop positive relationships with collaborative partners, external providers, and property managers.
• Be responsive to property managers as concerns arise in order to support participants in successfully stabilizing in their housing and prevent eviction.
• Follow up with property managers to determine the outcome of any needed interventions.
• Work in close coordination with other providers/support systems to address the needs of participants and facilitate engagement in clinical services to address medical, dental, and behavioral health needs.
• Provide ongoing home and community-based services to participating households utilizing strengths-based case management while embracing the philosophy of Motivational Interviewing and Housing First.
• Utilize assertive engagement techniques to meet participants where they are willing to participate and coach them in setting goals and identifying realistic steps in order to achieve them.
• Consistently use strong professional judgment while providing services to participants; including taking appropriate safety precautions while transporting participants and providing services to participants in the community/homes.
• Demonstrate responsibility for safety of participants and property. Must be familiar with fire and building regulations and evacuation procedures.
• Provide ongoing assessment of needs and risk of harm for each individual and respond appropriately.
• Provide outreach services as needed to maintain effective engagement in services.
• Complete housing-related documentation as required, including maintaining participant files.
• Actively participate in multi-disciplinary team meetings and consultations.
• Participate in quality assurance activities including chart reviews.
• Participate in providing educational opportunities that promote an understanding and acceptance of culturally relevant health services for the Native American and Alaskan Native community and for service providers.

Requirements

NARA NW is seeking a Housing Specialist with a passion for making a difference in the lives of vulnerable Elders. The ideal candidate will have experience working with Elders, knowledge of housing stabilization services, and a commitment to cultural sensitivity and community empowerment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Public Health, Psychology, or related field.
• At least 2 years of experience in housing stabilization services or related field.
• Experience working with Elders and individuals experiencing homelessness.
• Knowledge of fire and building regulations and evacuation procedures.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with multiple teams and external partners.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

Skills

• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.
• Experience with Motivational Interviewing and Housing First principles.
• Familiarity with assertive engagement techniques.
• Ability to work safely and responsibly with participants and property.

Benefits

NARA NW offers a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, paid time off, and more.

Pay

$26.09 - $35.70 per hour, non-exempt.

Schedule

In-person, Monday through Friday 8:30AM - 5:00PM.