Housing Retention Counselor

Evergreen Health•Buffalo, NY

About The Position

The Housing Retention Counselor (HRC) provides independent living and retention counseling services to individuals in Erie and Niagara County who receive regular monthly subsidy assistance from the Housing Assistance Program. The position is responsible for assisting patients to move from homelessness into permanent housing. The HRC assists all assigned patients with intakes, assessments, move-in activities, home visits, managing financial assistance funds (security deposits, rent) and providing stabilization services (case management) in conjunction with community partners.

Requirements

Exceptional communication skills
Excel in customer service and time management
Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment
Familiarity with computers and MS Office software (Outlook, Word) preferred
Ability to teach and influence others
Familiarity with the trauma-informed care model
Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team environment
Possess a valid NYS driver's license (verified through NYS LENS system) and insured, dependable car to use for client services activities, including transporting clients, when necessary
An awareness of and sensitivity to the issues and health disparities faced by underserved populations, including but not limited to individuals living with HIV, drug users, people of color, and others who are affected at a disproportionate rate
Bachelor’s degree in health, human or education services and one (1) year of qualifying experience
Associate degree in health, human or education services and two (2) years of qualifying experience
“qualifying experience” means verifiable full- or part-time experience in care coordination with the following populations: persons with a chronic illness, and/or persons with a history of mental illness, homelessness, or chemical dependence

Nice To Haves

Experience with families preferred.
Extensive qualifying experience may be considered in lieu of degree.
Familiarity with computers and MS Office software (Outlook, Word)

Responsibilities

Assesses independent living skills and works with the patient care team to develop and implement service plans that foster maximum patient self-sufficiency
Provides short-term situational counseling for patients in crisis
Assists patients to secure services that maximize their tenure in housing; increase their ability to maintain their household and finances, independently perform activities of daily living, uphold the terms of their lease; prevent lease violations; intervene and mitigate crisis situations; maximize tenant safety and security; and prevent avoidable evictions
Participate in scheduled virtual and in-person meetings
Provides quality customer service through a Trauma Informed Care (TIC) lens