Housing Support Specialist

Housing Support Specialist

Reports to: Program Manager

Location: Peoria IL

Hours: Part-Time (weekends/evenings may be required) 30 hours or more. Monday- Friday

Compensation: $24 per hour

Job Summary:

The PSH Housing Support Specialist plays a dual role in helping clients transition into Permanent Supportive Housing while overseeing the ongoing administration of housing subsidies. This includes providing field-based case management coordinating housing placements engaging landlords linking clients to services and monitoring housing quality and subsidy compliance. The specialist ensures that clients receive the support needed to achieve long-term housing stability and recovery. This role works collaboratively with NYAPs Front Door Diversion Program and the Comprehensive Class Member Transition Program to support successful transitions into independent housing.

Key Responsibilities:

Determine initial and ongoing eligibility for housing subsidies; maintain records. Support housing search applications and advocacy with landlords.
Conduct or arrange HQS inspections; coordinate re-inspections if needed.
Ensure all units meet Fair Market Rent (FMR) and rent reasonableness standards.
Set up lease or occupancy agreements security/utility deposits and subsidy payments.
Maintain receipts and financial records for transitional/housing funds.
Provide subsistence allowances and utility stipends in accordance with program guide Provide 60% of services in the field conducting regular home visits and wellness checks.
Assist clients with developing housing budgets and transition/move-in plans.
Support clients in identifying and building on strengths to achieve goals.
Connect clients to community resources healthcare benefits and vocational services.
Model and reinforce healthy interpersonal and problem-solving skills.
Maintain accurate up-to-date and organized client files and documentation. Register clients in PAIRS and other applicable systems.
Collaborate regularly with service coordinators community providers and landlords.
Support access to SSI/SSDI (SOAR) IPS and employment services as applicable.
Ensure timely recertifications annual inspections and income updates.

Qualifications:

Bachelors degree in Human Services or related field 2 years experience in housing or mental health support preferred.
Strong interpersonal organizational and communication skills.
Comfort working in the community and entering clients homes.
Flexibility for occasional evening/weekend work.
Proficient in Microsoft Office and data systems (e.g. PAIRS).
Reliable transportation required.
Must work from a strengths-based and recovery-oriented perspective

Who We Are:

National Youth Advocate Program has been serving communities and clients since 1978 and we continue to grow each year. Our growth allows us to expand and develop new and innovative programs to meet the ever-changing needs of those we serve. We offer unique and personalized services for families and individuals in four areas: Prevention/Intervention Positive Youth Development Out-of-Home-Placement and Reunification/Permanency.

We know you are compassionate and dedicated to serving your clients and communities and NYAP is dedicated to providing support to those who join our team! We look for individuals that are ready to make a direct impact and are excited to be an instrument in supporting the needs of our children youth and families.

Working At NYAP

• NYAPs commitment to doing what isbestfor children youth and their families is acore valueand one that we look for in our newest team members.
• Student Loan Repayment assistance up to $1200 per year!
• 22 Days OffEach Year!Plus 11Paid Holidays Per Year!
• Medical Dental and Vision insurance
• Competitive salaries and benefitsincluding a 401(k)Summer Hours Off (reduced work schedule) Tuition Assistance andWork Anniversary Trips!
• Peace leave
• Mileage reimbursement for some positions.

If this describes YOU please apply today!

listed are for eligible employees as outlined by our benefit policy.

The person in this position needs to follow a team concept and support both agency goals and co-workers. Employees must be able to effectively work with and be respectful and sensitive to persons from various cultures socioeconomic ethnic religious and racial backgrounds.