Housing Settlement Case Manager

• Using client-centered anti-oppression anti-racism trauma-informed gender-based analysis plus and strength-based approaches build relationships and establish rapport with existing community partners vendors landlords clients and staff.
• Maintain confidentiality and privacy protection measures for all community partners landlord vendors staff and clients.
• Promote a high-functioning teamwork environment that is inclusive harmonious cooperative efficient and productive.
• Participates in promoting a positive workplace culture through agency committee membership and departmental activities.
• Follow general directions and instructions from Team Leads within the Housing department.
• Conduct holistic client intake assessment and case planning services utilizing a client-centered anti-oppression anti-racism trauma-informed gender equity and strength-based approaches to assist clients in securing permanent housing.
• With clients input co-create settlement/housing plans to support clients with the short- and long-term goals; conduct follow up referral and advocacy.
• Maintain client files ensuring confidentiality.
• Manage caseloads and maintain detailed case management notes within the HIFIS database.
• Meet with potential clients assess and determine the appropriate housing response to a households request for support services and accommodations to resolve their housing needs.
• Provide support information resources and referrals to individuals or families that assist with problem solving and address immediate needs.
• Act as a resource to and advocate for individuals and families in Durham Region.
• Actively engage with clients to secure housing secure income assistance if necessary assist with leases deposits setting up utilities and lease signing complete and submit OESP applications and assist clients with ID replacement.
• Meet clients throughout the community to provide housing support. (ex. Durham Welcome Centres YMCA Ajax Homeless Hub CAREA CFOC Library etc.)
• Assist clients with filling out HSP applications and gathering documentation.
• Create and facilitate group sessions and presentations on housing-related topics such as evictions landlord/tenant rights and responsibilities budgeting Rent Smart etc.
• Identify and attend events to increase community outreach and public education about the housing programs.
• Collect and display accurate resource information on housing advocacy for clients.
• Collect information on and participate in team agency and partner communication on systemic housing issues.
• Attend and participate in advisory committees as needed including agency partners meetings.
• In addition to referred clients from other community partners conduct outreach efforts to identify and connect with homeless individuals and newcomers who require assistance.
• Engage in activities to reach isolated households/individuals and at-risk families.
• Liaise with Landlord Engagement Specialists Housing Retention Workers shelters and other community resources to establish referral processes and ensure that individuals are appropriately linked.
• Facilitate start-up supports for clients using program-approved guidelines templates and tracking tools.
• Establish and maintain partnerships with other community outreach workers Housing First and Housing Settlement Case Managers.
• Participate in the design implementation and evaluation of housing programs to meet identified needs.
• Conduct housing searches using the landlord database and various websites. (Ex Kijiji Craigslist Marketplace etc.).
• Track client statistics using the HIFIS database and agency excel spreadsheet. Suggest new initiatives and contribute to other projects/duties as required.
• Attend and support internal and/or external committees meetings and events where applicable

The job incumbent may be required to perform other duties as assigned.

Personal Attributes

• A minimum of 3 years of relevant experience providing enhanced case management and outreach in a community-based housing or related agency
• 3 years working experience in settlement services.
• Completion of a college diploma or undergraduate degree in Social Work or other relevant discipline.
• Demonstrated understanding of the Housing sectors intersection with other sectors and issues being faced by at-risk and diverse populations.
• Extensive knowledge of community-based resources and government agencies for low-income people including income through Ontario Works Ontario Disability Support Program Old Age Security.
• Practical knowledge of housing help-sector best practices the Housing First model the Landlord and Tenant Act the Residential Tenancies Act the Housing Services Act and all other relevant legislation.
• Strong mediation and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent oral and written English communication skills; second language is required.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word Excel PowerPoint Outlook and using the Internet.
• Non-violent crisis intervention (CPI) suicide intervention (ASIST) standard first aid or a commitment to secure those requirements within six months of being hired.
• Able to work both independently and within a team context.
• Capable of effectively managing stressful client situations.

• A valid Ontario drivers license (Class G) use of a vehicle and insurance with the ability to work in a variety of settings.
• The successful candidate must provide valid criminal records check prior to commencing employment.
• The physical ability to function effectively in an environment that includes both a normal office and duties being carried out in an external setting.
• Some evening and/or weekends may be required.