SUNOFO Housing Navigator - The Nest

About the role

The Housing Navigation Program collaborates with the City of Los Angeles to provide housing-focused supportive services for people experiencing homelessness, particularly those with mental illness and/or substance addictions. This role is crucial in bridging gaps in services within the Los Angeles Continuum of Care (LA CoC).

Responsibilities

• Carry a case load of 20-25 clients to ensure their housing interventions are successful.
• Develop a housing plan in collaboration with the client, detailing their needs for housing.
• Complete the County-approved Coordinated Entry System Los Angeles Homeless Assessment Tool in HMIS within one month, partnering with IHP staff.
• Ensure all required documents are uploaded into HMIS within one month of client enrollment in the program.
• Aid clients in obtaining identification, Social Security cards, disability verifications, and other necessary documents for permanent housing.
• Serve as the client's primary point of contact for permanent housing resource matching and notify additional treatment providers when a match is made.
• Prepare and submit housing applications, including the Universal Housing Application, within seven days of invitation.
• Assist clients in locating and viewing available permanent housing units, completing rental applications before the voucher expires, and transporting clients to these locations.
• Work with clients to understand lease terms, the lease-up process, and expectations for tenancy, and assist with securing security deposits, furniture, and household goods.
• Support clients through the move to permanent housing, providing transportation and ensuring a smooth transition.
• Negotiate leases with landlords/property managers, conduct unit site visits, and provide support to the participant regarding housing expenses.
• Maintain warm handoffs to permanent housing case managers as needed.
• Collaborate with assigned DMH IHP site staff to effectively communicate, problem-solve, and provide services to clients identified for Housing Navigation.
• Maintain up-to-date, accurate, and complete data and progress notes, records, and communication logs regarding referrals, housing applications, and coordination with outside partners.
• Stay informed about housing resources and various subsidy types, including Permanent Supportive Housing providers in the community.
• Attend and participate in supervision, staff meetings, trainings, conferences, workshops, and special projects to promote professional development.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma, GED, or Equivalent required.
• Bachelor’s degree in related field (Social Work, Community Organizing, or other Human Services) and one year’s full-time experience working with people experiencing homelessness, preferably those living with mental illness and/or substance addictions; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Knowledge of homeless social service providers and Coordinated Entry System.
• Excellent communication and interaction skills, especially with subcontractors, housing providers, and community partners.
• Strong attention to detail, excellent time management, organizational, written, verbal, interpersonal, and computer skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Preferred qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree in related field (Social Work, Community Organizing, or other Human Services).