Housing Stabilization Case Manager

Southeastern Vermont Community Action Inc•Westminster, VT

5d•$24 - $28•Onsite

About The Position

The Housing Stabilization Case Manager works directly with individuals and families experiencing homelessness or housing instability to help them move toward safe, stable housing. The role is grounded in treating clients with dignity, patience, and respect and supporting them as capable partners in their own stability. Funded through the Vermont Homelessness Response Continuum (VHRC), the position operates within the program framework and reporting requirements established by the State Office of Economic Opportunity. The Case Manager meets clients where they are, often in temporary motel housing, and collaborates with them to develop individualized plans focused on housing permanency. As a member of the Family Services team, the role coordinates holistic support addressing clients’ needs. It requires relationship-building and assessment skills, knowledge of housing and benefits systems, comfort working with people experiencing complex and often traumatic circumstances, and disciplined documentation to meet grant compliance expectations. The position is based in Brattleboro and requires travel mostly within the area to meet clients and community partners; some travel in Windham County and beyond may be needed. Evening availability may be required. This is a grant-funded position, and continuation depends on the availability of VHRC funding.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Experience in a human services role, with demonstrated ability to work with people experiencing housing instability, poverty, or other complex life challenges.
Commitment to treating clients with dignity and compassion and building relationships grounded in trust and respect.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to listen, ask effective questions, and engage people across different backgrounds and circumstances.
Ability to manage a caseload, meet documentation deadlines, and balance multiple priorities while maintaining a client-centered focus.
Ability to work as part of a team and contribute to a shared, client-centered approach to service delivery.
Valid driver's license and reliable transportation; ability to travel regularly within the service area.
Proficiency with standard office software and ability to learn and consistently use case management and database systems.

Nice To Haves

Post-secondary education in social work, human services, or a related field.
Familiarity with HMIS or similar case management database systems.
Knowledge of housing resources, public benefits programs, and community services in southeastern Vermont.
Experience with Coordinated Entry, permanent supportive housing, or rapid rehousing programs.
Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Human Services, or a related field.

Responsibilities

Promptly contact newly referred clients and conduct an initial meeting that establishes trust and welcomes clients respectfully.
Conduct comprehensive needs assessments using DCF-approved tools, covering housing history, income, employment, benefits, health, and support systems.
Participate in Coordinated Entry processes as required and help ensure clients are assessed and matched with available resources.
Identify barriers to housing stability and document client needs while reflecting the client's voice and perspective.
Develop housing plans collaboratively with clients using DCF-approved tools and centering their goals, strengths, and preferences.
Set realistic short- and longer-term goals with clients, emphasizing progress toward transitional or permanent housing and skills for sustaining stability.
Review and update housing plans regularly with clients, reflecting on progress.
Explain available housing options and help clients navigate housing systems with increasing independence.
Assist clients with applications for subsidized and market-rate housing and, when appropriate, advocate with landlords on their behalf.
Connect clients with housing-related financial assistance, including security deposits, rental arrears, and other available funds.
Reduce reliance on emergency hotel or motel placements by pursuing more stable alternatives as circumstances allow.
Collaborate with housing providers, landlords, and partners to find available units and resolve placement barriers.
Assess needs for income and benefits support and assist with applications and enrollment in programs such as Reach-Up, SSI/SSDI, General Assistance, Veterans' benefits, and 3SquaresVT.
Connect clients with workforce development, job training, and employment resources based on their strengths and interests.
Refer clients to mental health, substance use treatment, and other health and human services; coordinate with providers as appropriate and follow the client's lead on readiness and pacing.
Coordinate with Family Services colleagues to share information and provide consistent, well-rounded support.
Maintain knowledge of community resources and relationships with partner organizations to facilitate timely, effective referrals.
Maintain accurate and timely client records in HMIS and other documentation systems required by SEVCA or VHRC.
Complete documentation required by DCF-approved case management tools and keep records current on client status, plan progress, and service activity.
Participate in the annual Point-in-Time Count and other program data collection activities as required.
Submit required reports, case notes, and outcome data to the Family Services Program Director by established deadlines.
Attend Family Services team meetings, cross-program trainings, and required meetings with state and community partners.
Represent SEVCA and the VHRC program professionally and compassionately in client, partner, and public interactions.
Perform other duties assigned by the Family Services Program Director that are consistent with the position's scope and SEVCA's mission.