Housing Specialist

The Domestic Violence Service Center is seeking a full-time Housing Specialist.

This position is responsible for providing assistance with housing search and placement services to emergency shelter and Bridge Housing clients and hotline services to victims of domestic violence and homeless individuals.

The following include, but are not limited to, the essential functions of the role:

• Assess housing barriers of individuals and families experiencing homelessness to determine housing and service needs.
• Develop a housing procurement, financial, self-sufficiency case management plan with clients.
• Assist participants in locating and securing housing of their choice.
• Provide advocacy with landlords on the client's behalf to obtain housing.
• Create and maintain consistent communication channels, both verbal and written, between several parties.
• Provide information and referral assistance regarding available support from appropriate social service agencies and/or community programs.
• Assist in development of and encourage adherence to a personal budget through proactive housing and budget counseling sessions; provide budget counseling and education to assist clients in establishing payments plans for bills and past debts and to assist clients in obtaining and maintaining housing.
• Assist participants in development of a strength-based/solution-focused individualized goal and action plan that promotes permanent housing and self-sufficiency; develops an effective, timely referral network in order to ensure ongoing direction and support as needed.
• Assist clients with TANF/relocation resources, provide financial assistance when available (either directly or by referral) necessary for clients to apply for and move into housing (e.g. IDs, fees, security deposits, first months rent, etc.) and facilities lease completion.
• Identify participant strengths and barriers to stability and assist participants to reducing barriers and linking to resources and services.
• Assist with leveraging supportive services that will assist clients to maintain permanent housing.
• Apply knowledge of residential lease contracts to educate clients of their rights and responsibilities.
• Transport clients as deemed necessary. Transportation requirements should be limited to housing and job searches and occasional visits to relevant social service agencies.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS AND JOB SKILLS
Bachelors degree in human services preferred or a minimum of a two-year degree in Human related services and related experience. A minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent with experience in social work or related field is required.
Knowledge and belief in Housing First approach philosophy and strategies.
Knowledge or understanding of tenants rights and responsibilities; as well as VAWA housing laws.
Knowledge of community resources, social service agencies, and landlords.
The ability to maintain strict confidentiality at all times is an essential requirement.
The ability to use basic practical problem-solving skills, good reasoning and judgment to confront varying situations is essential
An understanding of and commitment to client self-determination.
An understanding of feminist philosophy and issues; of problems faced by victims of domestic violence; and of problems faced by disadvantaged and homeless women is preferred.
Effective spoken and written communication skills are essential.
Must be able to follow direction and be able to work as a cooperative member of a team.
Must be able to work with a diverse population.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
PA Child Abuse History Clearance;
PA Criminal History Background Check
FBI Criminal Background Check
Successful completion of pre-employment drug screen
A valid PA Drivers license, access to a motor vehicle, successful MVR check, and adequate auto insurance