Housing Navigator Homeless Military Veteran Mental Health Services

Description

Mental Health America of Los Angeles (MHALA) has been a pioneer in mental health service, advocacy, innovation, and training for nearly a century, working to ensure that people with mental health needs achieve meaningful, healthy lives in their communities.

MHALA is among the largest and most comprehensive nonprofit mental health agencies in Los Angeles County. The agency supports over 19,000 low‑income and no‑income individuals annually with integrated services. MHALA achieves impact in the areas of mental and physical healthcare, homelessness and housing, supported employment, and wellness and financial services, with special programs for Veterans and transition‑age youth.

MHALA also provides training programs for individuals joining the behavioral health workforce and for the larger community around mental health issues.

MHALA works to ensure that its employees are just as cared for as its members. Communication, collaboration, transparency and a healthy work/life balance are core components of the agency culture. Employees are encouraged to engage in self‑care and can enjoy a 35‑hour workweek.

MHALA fosters diversity at all levels of the organization. The agency promotes a team‑oriented culture that offers opportunities for growth. We are proud to offer a competitive salary and full benefits package, including an employee assistance program, and generous paid time off.

35 hours per week / $24.00 - $25.00 per hour

(The actual compensation will be determined based on experience and other factors permitted by law.)

The HOUSING NAVIGATOR is responsible for working in tandem with the HUD‑VASH team in providing ongoing support in identifying housing needs and working alongside veteran members and SSVF staff in locating suitable housing. Will work together with HUD‑VASH and SSVF to put together regular inventory of available housing in community. Housing Navigator will build relationships with property owners and managers to expedite the process of getting into housing and be a point of contact for concerns.

The position focuses on housing identification, landlord engagement, and housing placement support consistent with SSVF’s housing‑first, time‑limited intervention model.

This is not an exhaustive task list, and other duties may be assigned as deemed appropriate or necessary by the supervisor or program director. Reasonable accommodation will be provided to any qualified person with a medical or psychiatric disability, providing it will not change the essential nature of the position, nor cause undue hardship to the Agency’s operations. MHALA is an equal employer opportunity and service provider.

The agency will consider individuals with a criminal history in accordance with both the Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers (FCO) and the California Fair Chance Act (FCA).

• Interface with HUD‑VASH, SSVF, and other government, community and private agencies to obtain permanent housing for veterans and their families that are suitable to their needs. Actively assist and coach participants in all steps of completing the application process. Provide active follow‑up during the application process and act as a housing counselor and advocate for participants when necessary. Will make sure that members are aware and educated regarding their lease and their rights as a tenant.
• Develop and maintain relationships with landlords, property managers, and housing providers to increase access to affordable housing for veteran members. Be the initial point of contact for property owners and managers offering apartments for rent. Housing Navigator will inform new potential landlords regarding what SSVF services are and what the benefits would be of working with our program.
• Participate in groups that are focused on increasing housing resources for the homeless and will be a representative in advocating for the housing needs of homeless veterans. Will develop relationships through these groups to increase housing resources throughout the CoC.
• Will negotiate with property owners when there is difficulty with getting a participant(s) into housing.…