Community Guide Specialist - Part Time

RISE Services•Winchester, VA

7d•$21 - $21

About The Position

The Community Guide Specialist helps individuals with disabilities achieve stable housing and meaningful community living. This role supports individuals through housing planning, resource navigation, and individualized coaching to build independence and integrated community participation. The Community Guide Specialist works closely with individuals, families, Support Coordinators, and housing partners to identify affordable housing opportunities, explain rental assistance programs, reduce barriers to placement, and support tenancy success. The position serves as a key connector between the individual and the community—strengthening partnerships and promoting long-term housing stability. RISE Services is a mission-driven human services organization dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities through high-quality, person-centered support. RISE Services helps individuals build greater independence, stability, and meaningful community participation by connecting them to the services, resources, and supports they need to thrive. RISE Services provides comprehensive services including Community Guide (housing and community support services) and Benefits Planning , helping individuals understand how employment and income may affect benefits such as SSI, SSDI, Medicaid , and other vital supports. RISE Services also partners with community stakeholders to expand access, strengthen supports, and promote inclusive opportunities for the individuals we serve. Our mission is to create inclusive pathways for success—supporting individuals and families one person, one plan, one community at a time. Position Summary The Community Guide Specialist supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in accessing community resources and achieving integrated, independent living. This role works closely with individuals, families, Support Coordinators, and housing partners to implement person-centered plans and promote community inclusion. The Community Guide Specialist assists individuals in identifying affordable housing options and works with landlords and property managers to explain available assistance and subsidy programs. The role also provides ongoing support to housing partners to help address tenant-related concerns and promote housing stability. As an ambassador for the organization, the Community Guide Specialist builds positive relationships within the community and promotes the agency’s mission, vision, and commitment to inclusive, person-centered services.

Responsibilities

Prepare, maintain, and update accurate records, forms, case files, and required documentation.
Complete reports and documentation as requested and in accordance with program and funding requirements.
Provide 1:1 support to individuals, including transportation as needed, to promote independence and community inclusion.
Link individuals to appropriate community resources and natural supports based on their needs, preferences, and goals.
Advocate for individuals and collaborate with families, support teams, community partners, and stakeholders to maximize independence and quality of life.
Identify and support sustainable community and housing opportunities that align with participant needs and preferences.
Conduct housing roadmaps, tenant screenings, and housing counseling with individuals served.
Coordinate and attend meetings with property owners, landlords, and property managers to discuss rental assistance, placement programs, and available support services.
Educate landlords and property managers on rental assistance and subsidy programs, including the SRAP program and applicable timelines.
Assist individuals with obtaining and maintaining safe, affordable housing, including mediation with landlords to resolve issues and prevent eviction when possible.
Support individuals in identifying resources to cover housing-related expenses such as security deposits, moving costs, furnishings, adaptive aids, and other one-time needs.
Assist with move-in planning, coordination, and logistical support.
Support individuals with housing recertification and ongoing compliance requirements.
Maintain professionalism and effective communication when working with clients, providers, funding sources, landlords, and other stakeholders.
Work flexible hours as needed to meet the needs of the individuals served activities.