RAFT Program Specialist

Responsibilities

• Collect initial intake and assessment for presenting and surrounding needs to walk-ins, phone clients, and others seeking services.
• Work with the HCEC team (Housing Consumer Education Center) to determine client RAFT eligibility, along with working with RAFT eligible clients to access and manage benefits.
• Entry of client information into all relevant internal databases, along with the Cornerstone Tracker and Counselor databases for the HCEC and RAFT programs.
• Provide housing program and services information and referral services to walk-ins, phone clients, and other.
• Obtain resources and services as requested and/or needed to address clients' needs including but not limited to: RAFT applications, housing applications, negotiation and mediation with property owners and utility companies, assistance with financial applications, budget counselling, money management and credit repair, tenant/landlord rights and responsibilities, housing search, fair housing, and discrimination laws/complaints and federal and state rental assistance programs.
• Provide information and referral, brief counseling, or extended case management for clients in the following areas: Budgeting and credit repair, tenant/landlord rights and responsibilities, housing search, and other areas as needed.
• Collaborate with other Client Resources team members in providing counselling and/or case management services.
• Develop partnerships with internal and external providers to ensure comprehensive and seamless delivery of services.
• Provide case management services to clients, maintaining on-going relationships and follow up to ensure that they are connected to community supports and services.
• Make home visits to clients on a limited basis, including but not limited to those who are disabled and/or those whose needs indicate home based intervention.
• Prepare program reports as required by RCAP management and Program funders.
• Lead with Integrity, Empathy, Empowerment, Pride, and Passion as Part of our Community with a Commitment to a Better Tomorrow.

Requirements

• Minimum of one (1) year of experience with income, assets, and credit reviews. Experience assisting clients with housing and economic stabilization barriers.
• Minimum of one (1) year financial budgeting and reporting experience. Experience in Banking or Finance industry is a plus, but not required.
• Excellent time management, organizational, and communication skills. Ability to work collaboratively with clients, colleagues, and internal stakeholders. Strong customer service skills.
• Sensitivity to the needs of diverse populations.
• Experience in business and customer service; strong computer skills including MS Word, Excel, Outlook, database systems, etc.
• Bilingual skills; (English/Spanish) preferred.