Rapid Rehousing Caseworker

Childrens Programs, 246 Park Street, West Springfield, MA 01089, USA

The CHD Rapid Rehousing Program, funded by HUD and the Youth Homelessness Demonstration Program (YHDP), seeks a Case Worker to support homeless youth and young adults (ages 18‑24) using a positive youth development framework. The role involves delivering community‑based, culturally competent case management, focusing on housing stability, life skills, and crisis intervention.

The program focuses on gaining immediate stability via scattered‑site housing and intensive case management to ensure long‑term permanency. Case Workers deliver face‑to‑face support in homes and the community, focusing on education, employment, life skills, and health, utilizing best practices including Positive Youth Development and Trauma‑Informed Interventions.

• Intake & Assessment: Conduct housing needs assessments to evaluate barriers and develop individualized housing plans using the Massachusetts YYA Problem Solving Approach.
• Case Management: Provide strengths‑based, solution‑focused support to reduce barriers to self‑sufficiency and permanent housing.
• Documentation: Maintain thorough individual participant files, monthly logs, and outcome reports in compliance with CHD and HMIS data requirements.
• Coordinated Entry: Collaborate with the Hampden County Coordinated Entry Team to integrate housing‑insecure youth into Rapid Rehousing.
• Crisis Intervention: Develop and implement safety plans and provide immediate crisis support as needed.
• Community Connection: Refer and link participants to essential resources, including mental health services, healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.
• Team
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Participate in staff meetings and contribute to a team‑oriented approach to generate innovative solutions for participant success.

• Education/
  
  Experience:
  
  Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution OR at least two years of relevant professional or lived experience.
• Program Knowledge: Prior experience working with youth or homeless population, understanding of services (benefits, housing supports, etc.) preferred.
• Technical
  
  Skills:
  
  Proficiency in data collection and management systems.
• Certifications: Must have a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and vehicle insurance. Ability to pass CORI background checks and driving record screenings.
• Competencies: Demonstrated ability to work respectfully with diverse and vulnerable populations, including LGBTQ+ youth. Skilled in offering supportive services with a focus on "young adult choice" in all planning.
• Language: Bilingual (Spanish/English) is highly encouraged to apply.

Salary and Benefits: $42,000‑$43,000 annually. Full‑time on‑site opportunity with comprehensive benefits, including dental, health, and life insurance, a flexible schedule, paid time off, earned vacation time, and paid holidays.

Equal Opportunity Employer. This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.