Benefits:
401(k)
Dental insurance
Flexible schedule
Health insurance
Paid time off
Job description
POSITION: HOUSING ADVOCATE
STATUS: Part-Time
CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt
REPORTS TO: Housing Program Manager
PAY RATE: $24.50
POSITION SUMMARY:
In partnership with the Department of Children and Family Services, the Housing Advocate will provide support to families experiencing inadequate housing, and youth who are at risk of becoming homeless upon emancipation from DCFS. The Housing Advocate will ensure participants receive case management and financial assistance to secure stable, permanent and affordable housing.
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES AND KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Evaluate emergency housing needs and provide immediate services including intake and referral
Create unique housing action plans with specific client-advocate responsibilities, and revise regularly to reflect progress
Assist in securing permanent and affordable housing by identifying local property vacancies and facilitating application process
Develop professional relationships with landlords and maintain lists of housing providers in local areas
Assist clients in securing funds to meet subsistence needs including, but not limited to, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Supplemental Security Income
Educate clients on tenant rights and responsibilities, and provide financial literacy and life skills training
Advocate for clients when accessing utility services, weatherization programs and other low-income energy assistance services
Research employment opportunities and provide vocational counseling centered on client skills, strengths, and interests
Maintain organized files, clear case notes, and detailed daily agendas
Complete client and program reports on a monthly and quarterly basis
Represent Spanish Community Center at community functions and at other events as requested
Other duties as assigned
MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, human services, applied behavioral science, or related field
Fluent in reading, writing and speaking in Spanish
Two (2) years of experience in a social services or related agency
Knowledge and skill in working with families in crisis or in sensitive situations
Demonstrated high quality interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
Professional demeanor and ability to prioritize responsibilities and function effectively during stressful or busy periods
High degree of cultural sensitivity and ability to work effectively with families from diverse racial, socio-economic, ethnic and educational backgrounds
Ability to engage, assess, motivate, and support participants using advocacy and coaching skills that are compassionate, strengths-based, and non-judgmental
Must be able to pass a criminal background check
Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
WORK SCHEDULE: Monday through Friday, 9am – 5pm
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $24.50 per hour
Benefits:
401(k)
Dental insurance
Employee assistance program
Flexible schedule
Health insurance
Paid time off
Schedule:
4 hour shift
Evenings as needed
Monday to Friday
Weekends as needed
Work Location: In person