Housing Specialist

Housing Specialist

Summary;
The Housing Specialist plays a critical role in supporting people who are unstably housed or experiencing homelessness, have chronic health conditions, and are high utilizes of Medicaid and the healthcare system. The position encompasses a dual function of housing specialist and independent living specialist. This position assists eligible participants in finding and securing affordable and accessible housing. The Specialist is responsible for connecting participants with critical resources, including rental subsidies, community transition supports, and other essential services to promote independence, stable housing and enhance their quality of life.

• Associate’s degree in a human services or social work related field; and
• One year of experience in housing, Independent Living, community-based supports and services, long term care, and/or disability rights; or
• An equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Knowledge of state and local housing policies, practices, laws, and issues impacting seniors and people with disabilities preferred.
• Knowledge of resources, supports and services available in the community for people with disabilities.
• Strong commitment to the independent living philosophy, Person Centered Planning, consumer choice and integration of people with disabilities into all aspects of community life.
• Ability to effectively interact and work with individuals from diverse cultures and backgrounds.
• Proficient in the use of all Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, Power Point).
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Demonstrate professional work habits including dependability, time management, independence, and responsibility.
• Knowledge of ethical and professional responsibilities and boundaries.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to multi-task and work effectively in both a team and individual setting.
• Capacity to work in various settings, including home visits and community-based locations.
• Valid Driver’s License and reliable vehicle.

• Actively support STIC’s mission, philosophy, and values and the pursuit of community integration for all people with disabilities.
• Conduct intakes and determine eligibility for potential Rapid Transition Housing (RTH) participants who are identified as a homeless high utilizers by a Hospital, Managed Care Organization, Medical Respite, Performing Provider System, or Skilled Nursing Facility.
• Assist eligible RTH Housing participants through all steps necessary for RTH program enrollment, including: collecting and completing required program documentation, filling out housing applications, obtaining household goods and/or support for moving expenses, arranging unit inspections, etc.
• Assist RTH participants with identifying individualized goals and develop and implement an Individualized Service Plan (ISP), in collaboration with transition specialists, service coordinators (SC), Nursing Home Discharge Planners, Care Managers (CM), natural supports, and/or advocates, as appropriate.
• Work with participants and/or their transition specialists, service coordinators (SC), Nursing Home Discharge Planners, Care Managers (CM), natural supports, and/or advocates to ensure adequate supports are in place for a successful transition to stable housing.
• Identify landlords, public housing, and private housing in the region which may be suitable for individuals enrolled in the RTH program in the future.
• Maintain a registry of available housing in the region, including degree of accessibility, location, proximity to services, and rental costs.
• Complete all required RTH and IL paperwork and utilize the NYAIL Database to provide information about contacts, participant needs and services provided.
• Develop and implement outreach strategies to promote STIC’s RTH/OHS housing services.
• Other housing tasks related to the RTH program and/or the Olmstead Housing Subsidy (OHS) program.
• Attend required trainings and meetings as directed by NYAIL or Supervisor.
• Comply with all STIC policies and procedures, as well as applicable…