Housing Case Manager (HUD-VASH Housing Navigator)

The SSVF housing case manager (HUD-VASH Housing Navigator) is responsible for increasing access to both private and public rental markets for Veterans enrolled in both SSVF and HUD-VASH as they move from homelessness to permanent housing. This is a unique position that will be embedded in both One80 Places SSVF Program and the VAs HUD-VASH Program. The Housing Case Manager will also be responsible for serving as the point of contact to communicate housing leads assist clients with applying for units negotiating with landlords if challenges emerge related to rental payment housing conditions or other concerns that may lead to eviction. The Housing Case Manager will be responsible for communicating updates and client progress to both SSVF and HUD VASH Case Managers.

This position is funded in whole by the VA through One80 Places SSVF Program and they will dedicate 100% of their time on Veterans and their families served by the SSVF Program in Columbia.

STATUS: Full-time Regular / Exempt

SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS:

1. Support and demonstrate One80 Places mission vision and values.

2. Knowledge and belief in a housing with supportive services approach.

3. Bachelors degree in human service field of study (social work counseling psychology or related field) required.

4. 2 - 5 years of case management experience.

5. Ability to provide non-judgmental and non-stigmatizing services to meet clients where theyre at.

6. Experience with crisis intervention and navigating social service systems.

7. Strong written and verbal communication skills.

8. Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

9. Excellent computer skills including basic office programs and the ability to learn and utilize the HMIS database.

10. Ability to work independently and as part of a fast-paced team.

11. Valid drivers license and the ability to successfully complete basic driver safety training.

12. Ability to travel throughout the 13-county service area of the Midlands Continuum of Care in personal vehicle and company-provided vehicle.

13. Demonstrate professionalism in all areas with clients and staff in accordance to the One80 Place employee handbook.

SPECIFIC DUTIES:

1. Work in collaboration with VA HUD VASH Social Workers and SSVF Case Managers in finding appropriate permanent housing solutions for veterans.
2. Assist with tracking landlords for quick real-time referrals for participants that will hold at a minimum: Contact information for landlord location of units rent ranges bedroom/ bathroom accessibility to public transportation and non-negotiables for landlord (i.e. no criminal records HH income requirements etc.)
3. Keep abreast of local housing resources and the client referral process.
4. Perform a comprehensive Housing Needs Assessment for each client.
5. Place clients in appropriate housing and accompany clients to housing-related appointments.
6. Work with HUD VASH Social Workers and SSVF Case Managers to ensure a smooth transition into permanent housing and maintain a supportive relationship with participants to assist them in sustaining permanent housing.
7. Coordinate with SSVF team to ensure that they have access to a full range of community-based services including services provided by the VA as well as any other agencies where they may need services.
8. Coordinate care with HUD VASH Social Workers to ensure inspections and housing related forms are completed in a timely manner.
9. Advocate with landlords on behalf of clients as needed.
10. Coordinatewith the participant PHA VA Staff and landlords about required documentation inspections appointments or anything else related to obtaining a HUD-VASH Voucher.
11. Work as part of a multi-disciplinary team providing client centered services with all staff members as well as the other case managers participating in the program.
12. Report to program management on all issues relevant to how the program is functioning including the interagency referral and ongoing coordination processes.
13. Participate in interagency case management team meetings.
14. Coordinate with landlords to obtain necessary documentation such as landlord forms W-9s Tax Records to verify ownership lease agreements and any needed by the Housing Authority to issue a Section 8 voucher.
15. Document in HMIS all case notes and service transactions for services provided to each client.
16. Other duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENTAL AND SENSORY DEMANDS:

1. Requires sound mental reasoning sound judgment and the ability to respond calmly and effectively in a crisis.
2. Requires the ability to relate effectively to individuals experiencing homelessness.
3. Requires corrective vision and hearing to normal range; ability to move between service locations; ability to lift 25 lbs.
4. Possible exposure to communicable diseases emotionally stressful working conditions and irregular hours.