Housing Navigator

Mission Action•San Francisco, CA

16h•Hybrid

About The Position

Mission Action nurtures individual wellness and cultivates collective power among low-income and immigrant communities to create a more just society. As a multi-issue, multi-strategy organization, we work to improve lives on an individual level as well as affect broader social change by engaging in advocacy and community organizing. We work together across programs to address homelessness, lack of affordable housing, and to support immigrant rights in order to meet the complex needs of our communities and collectively address the root causes of suffering and injustice. Access Point in the Mission District is part of the Adult Coordinated Entry System and in partnership with the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing (HSH). The purpose of the Coordinated Entry System is to ensure that all people experiencing housing instability are identified, assessed, and matched to appropriate housing opportunities. Through problem solving and housing navigation services, Coordinated Entry seeks to minimize homelessness and help individuals move into safe, stable, and dignified housing. Coordinated Entry incorporates a system-wide housing first approach and uses standardized tools, assessment, and referral processes to determine and secure the most appropriate response to each client's immediate and long-term housing needs. The Housing Navigator is responsible for working with clients throughout the process of locating and obtaining permanent supportive housing. This includes preparing an individualized housing plan; assisting clients with becoming “document ready” for a successful housing application; accessing and completing housing applications and interviews; connecting clients to other service linkages necessary to; and assisting with their move into housing. The Housing Navigator will work closely with the Licensed Care Coordinator and Problem Solving Specialists to coordinate services with clients. The position will work primarily out of the Access Point based in the Mission and will be asked to visit other Mission Action sites as needed.

Requirements

Background in and passion for working with low-income and immigrant communities around issues of affordable housing, land use, and/or immigrant & worker rights; familiarity with these issues in the Mission District and San Francisco, highly desired.
An understanding of intersectionality and the needs of communities impacted by homelessness in San Francisco, particularly in the Mission District.
A strong commitment to housing justice, as well as inclusive and multi-cultural programming.
At least 2 years of direct service experience in case management, counseling, or a similar field.
Demonstrated knowledge/experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness.
Experience with crisis intervention, establishing boundaries, conflict resolution, and de-escalation.
Strong written and oral communication skills.
Ability to work both independently and as a member of a multi-disciplinary team.
Proficiency with basic computer programs including Microsoft Word, Outlook, and Excel.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual (written and oral) in Spanish preferred.
Knowledge of the ONE System preferred.

Responsibilities

Provide one-on-one assistance and support to clients assigned to Housing Navigation services through the initial client assessment at the Access Point.
Create an individualized housing plan for each client, assessing their eligibility for various housing opportunities.
Assist clients with completing housing applications, interviewing, and obtaining all documents necessary for a successful application, such as identification and income verification documents.
Maintain relationship with clients eligible for housing placement throughout the placement process.
Support clients in moving into new housing should applications be accepted.
Develop and maintain communication with the relevant Property Managers, Leasing Agents, and/or support services staff at partner housing sites.
Keep accurate, up-to-date records and charts via the HSH ONE System with attention to client privacy and confidentiality.
Provide professional, accessible, and culturally relevant support, advocacy, and information to program participants.
Connect clients to other services and resources as needed.
Achieve a broad understanding of the housing-related resources and services available in the community for clients, particularly those with acute medical and behavioral health needs. This may include information such as rental assistance programs, IHSS services, and food programs.
Participate in regular Coordinated Entry team meetings.
Provide crisis intervention to clients experiencing acute symptoms associated with their behavioral health issues.
Serve as a liaison to community-based and governmental service partners as requested.
Participate in staff training, staff meetings, and development activities as directed.
Conduct business in accordance with the DSCS Employee Handbook, exercising sound judgment and serving the best interests of the agency and the community.
Commit yourself to treating each community member with respect and dignity.
Perform other duties as assigned.