YWCA is recruiting a Housing Advocate to provide support, advocacy, and housing navigation under the Joint Transitional Housing and Permanent Housing – Rapid Rehousing project. The Housing Advocate will assist domestic violence survivors with moving from homelessness into housing stabilization while meeting grant requirements as outlined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and YWCA Cass Clay.
Job Duties:
Advocacy
- Meet with participants to assess housing needs and address barriers that could impede housing stabilization.
- Schedule and conduct meetings with participants to meet their individual needs and empower them to make progress on the goals they set for themselves. Goal areas may include but are not limited to employment, education, financial management, healthy relationships, and the needs of their children. .
- Utilize assessments to develop goals and safety plans to address the individualized needs of participants.
- Monitor participant progress and communicate pertinent information to YWCA staff.
- Maintain updated records of participants and applicants.
- Maintain knowledge and serve as liaison between local housing programs, housing authorities, and landlords.
- Connect participants to community resources to assist with rent and utilities, as well as income support and benefits.
- Transport clients as necessary.
Grant Monitoring/Implementation- Submit assistance vouchers to the Housing Director and Finance Director in a timely manner.
- Assist with reports to funders such as HUD, United Way, etc.
- Prepare statistics and other reports as necessary.
- Understand and implement TH and PH-RRH grant objectives/guidelines.
- Purchase supplies as needed and provide appropriate documentation to support the expenditures.
- Share success stories and testimonials with YWCA staff.
Other Duties- Represent YWCA at community events. Also, serve on committees or attend meetings on behalf of YWCA.
- Participate in the OnCall rotation.
- Maintain sensitivity to the cultural and socioeconomic characteristics of the population served.
- Accept and organize furniture and other donations.
- Prompt and reliable attendance is required.
- Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:- Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Sciences (Psychology, Sociology, Social Work, etc).
- Understanding of individuals and families experiencing homelessness, physical and mental health conditions, addiction, domestic violence, and poverty.
- Female. (BFOQ)
- Must have excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Knowledge in “Housing First” philosophy and strategies.
- CPR/First Aid Certification is recommended.
- Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle with proof of insurance and insurable record.
- Meets all background check requirements.
- An understanding of, appreciation for, and support of the mission of the YWCA Cass Clay, which is eliminating racism and empowering women.
YWCA Cass Clay is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees