Housing Liaison Service Navigator (CSJ)

TRELLIS SOCIETY FOR COMMUNITY IMPACT•Calgary, AB

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

Trellis works with young people, adults, families, and communities to unlock their potential and support their growth, focusing on generational change by providing a spectrum of services for people of all backgrounds, including those with complex needs. Their programs improve access to resources, develop family and community supports, and build people’s capacity to deal with life’s challenges. The Housing Liaison Service Navigator role is a full-time, 8-week contract position, funded through the Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ) program. This program supports young people (15-30 years old, Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or granted refugee protection, legally entitled to work in Canada) in gaining skills and experience to transition into the workforce. The Housing Liaison is crucial to the Youth and Family Housing programs, utilizing a Housing First and trauma-informed approach to facilitate timely housing solutions for individuals and families in high-risk conditions or transitioning out of homelessness. The position involves collaborating with landlords, program staff, and community housing partners to curate and maintain a comprehensive housing inventory, ultimately enhancing clients' capacity to maintain permanent housing by leveraging their strengths and reducing barriers.

Requirements

Be between 15 and 30 years of age at the start of employment.
Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or a person who has been granted refugee protection under Canadian law.
Be legally entitled to work in Canada (international students are not eligible).
Post-secondary education in a related field or equivalent experience.
Strong knowledge of the Residential Tenancy Act (RTA) and compliance requirements.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, focusing on relationship building and conflict resolution.
Able to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
Highly organized with strong documentation and tasks prioritization skills.
Proficient in MS Office and other relevant software.
Compassionate and non-judgmental, and maintains confidentiality.
Understanding of housing barriers for high-risk individuals and the ability to navigate them effectively.
Demonstrated initiative and sound decision-making in complex situations.
Valid Standard First Aid and CPR certification.
Current Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search and Intervention Record Check.
Reliable vehicle and Class 5 driver's license, with a clean abstract and $2M liability insurance.
Flexible availability, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.

Nice To Haves

Experience in property management, tenant disputes, and evictions.
Strong willingness to learn or knowledge of Housing First principles.

Responsibilities

Conduct thorough housing needs assessments in collaboration with program staff.
Coordinate and execute housing searches to maintain an up-to-date housing inventory.
Cultivate relationships with landlords citywide, advocating for our program and fostering strong partnerships.
Serve as the main point of contact for landlords, offering liaison support and advocacy.
Receive, screen and assess incoming housing and program referrals.
Provide financial assistance to landlords, including damage deposits and rental subsidies, to facilitate housing for clients.
Offer tenant education sessions in partnership with landlords and program staff to ensure smooth transitions into housing.
Collaborate closely with program staff to provide comprehensive support to clients and landlords.
Stay updated on relevant legislation, such as the Landlord & Tenant Act, and provide educational opportunities for staff and clients.
Coordinate lease signings, move-ins, and move-outs.
Track and record housed clients.
Other tasks as required.