Housing Specialist - Domestic Violence Programs

Urban Resource Institute (URI)•New York, NY

2d•$21 - $27

About The Position

Urban Resource Institute (URI) is seeking a dedicated Housing Specialist to join their Domestic Violence Programs. This role is crucial in assisting clients, particularly victims of domestic violence, in securing safe and affordable housing. The specialist will assess client needs, develop individualized housing plans, and help clients navigate government housing programs and applications. This position involves direct client counseling, advocacy, and support, as well as developing and facilitating educational workshops on housing-related topics. The role also requires building and maintaining a database of housing resources, engaging in community outreach, and fostering relationships with government agencies and community organizations. The Housing Specialist will serve as a key resource for the social services department, represent URI in relevant coalitions, and participate in team meetings, case conferences, and training seminars. Additionally, the role involves assisting with reports, program evaluation, and performing other duties as assigned by the Shelter Program Director.

Requirements

High school diploma plus two (2) years of relevant training and experience, including experience working with victims of domestic violence; or Bachelor's degree in health or human services.
Minimum of one year counseling experience and two years of experience in housing development/management, real estate or case management.
Demonstrated sensitivity and experience with and/or knowledge of domestic violence within and against disenfranchised communities including individuals whom identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and/or HIV-affected, the elderly and individuals with mental health issues.
Excellent communication skills.
Ability to write and record case documentation.
Skills in group counseling.
Working knowledge of women’s issues.
Sensitivity to women’s needs.
Demonstrated ability to advocate and provide follow-up around housing issues.
Able to conduct housing specific workshops.
Knowledge and skills necessary to develop strong linkages with city and private housing agencies.
Ability to secure permanent housing for homeless population.
Ability to be flexible with schedule as needed.
Employee must be computer-literate and must have knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.

Responsibilities

Assess clients’ housing needs and develop an individualized plan to secure safe, affordable housing.
Assess clients’ eligibility for government-financed housing programs, including subsidies, and benefit programs.
Assist clients to secure and complete applications for permanent housing.
Identify, and assist clients to obtain relevant documents needed for applications for permanent housing.
Provide individual counseling, advocacy and support to clients.
Develop and facilitate educational workshops and groups focused on housing (including available housing resources, apartment search techniques, mock interviews, and other best practices).
Develop and maintain a database of resources, including a listing of brokers, landlords, and management companies.
Engage in community outreach efforts to identify housing opportunities.
Develop and maintain relationships with government partners, and supportive community-based organizations.
Participate in team meetings, case conferences and meetings with prospective brokers and landlords.
Serve as a resource to the shelters’ social services department staff.
Represent URI at city and statewide coalitions, task forces and committees related to housing.
Participate in monthly staff meetings, case conferences and training seminars conducted to enhance one’s skills.
Assist with reports and program evaluation.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Shelter Program Director.