HNG Housing Navigator

Kintegra Health•Gastonia, NC

7h•Onsite

About The Position

The Housing Navigator serves as part of HealthNet Gaston’s team. Utilizing guidelines and resources provided through the NC Emergency Solutions Grant Program (NC ESG), Justice Involved Transitions grant and other housing support programs. The Housing Navigator will collaborate with CoC member agencies to increase the availability of affordable housing in the service area so agencies can help their program participants transition quickly and successfully from homelessness to permanent, stable housing. For all programs serviced, the Housing Navigator is responsible for accurately obtaining and maintaining all required housing forms, client files and documentation required. The Housing Navigator will reach out to and build a rapport with local business owners, realtors, landlords, housing developers, and other service providers to identify new and existing housing opportunities. The Housing Navigator must have a strong commitment to personal and professional ethics and standards and be able to set and maintain appropriate boundaries. Must have sensitivity toward the program’s target population and ability to comfortably and effectively relate to individuals of diverse backgrounds and be respectful of cultural differences. Must be responsible, organized, non-judgmental, and able to work both independently and as part of a team.

Requirements

Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Highly proficient in technology (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Google Docs, TEAMS, Zoom, etc.)
Detail oriented with strong organizational and time management skills
Ability to work with diverse populations
Ability to be supportive and provide guidance in a non-judgmental manner
Proven ability to work independently, effectively as an individual, as well as part of a team
Adaptable to consistent process changes/updates around grant requirements, processes and protocols.
Reliable transportation, valid NC Driver’s License, and active car insurance
Experience in real estate and/or business development, and a financial background.
Experience in homeless services and/or related social services field with strong skills in program development and implementation, including the development of policies and procedures.
Experience analyzing program procedures and practices to identify barriers and impediments to achieving goals and making recommendations for prompt course-correction.
Experience working with the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) and/or comparable database system.
Experience in leading/facilitating meetings (in-person and virtually).

Responsibilities

Increase availability of affordable housing, survey the tri-county rental market to identify safe, decent, and affordable housing opportunities to meet the needs of the various homeless and housing-insecure client populations.
Collaborate activities with housing navigators and case managers from CoC member agencies
Advocate for households who are experiencing homelessness by educating prospective landlords regarding the needs of households; and proactively addressing households’ potential barriers to housing (low-wealth, prior evictions, poor credit histories, etc.).
Connect Community members with affordable housing and Work with CoC member agencies to screen their clients for acceptance into various housing programs as well as verifying eligibility for such opportunities (e.g., Tenant-Based Rental Assistance, Emergency Housing Vouchers, RRH, Permanent Supportive Housing, Justice Involved Transition Program).
Provide comprehensive housing support to CoC members clients including but not limited to assisting in housing searches, making sure clients have required documentation, reviewed lease requirements, and educating about tenants’ rights and responsibilities.
Connect JIT clients with appropriate housing in adherence with program guidelines. Communicate housing status of JIT clients with carceral staff and probation/parole staff on a weekly basis
Participate in CoC weekly case conferencing meetings, staff meetings, training sessions, supervisory meetings, committee meetings, agency events, and other activities as directed. (ie: PIT count, Hope Fest, Laundry & Shower unit events)
Maintain positive professional relationships with clients, CoC members, program partners, funders, and community agencies
Maintain and monitor confidential participant applications, records, HMIS data and reports as assigned. Maintain compliance with all client files/records according to each program’s guidelines.
Provide accurate and timely reporting of activities to clients, program partners, and supervisor.
Maintain up to date knowledge of regulations and requirements related to housing programs and client eligibility.
Obtain ongoing training as required and as necessary to effectively perform duties and provide professional growth.
Adhere to HUD’s guidelines on housing and follow NC 509’s Coordinated Entry standard operating procedures.
Maintain compliance with all program partner/grant funder requirements including but not limited to client contact guidelines, documentation of services provided, and verification of invoiced expenses
Other duties as assigned