Client Services Navigator - housing Specialist

Client Services Navigator

The overall goal and mission of TVCCA Housing Programs is to prevent people from becoming homeless. When applicants are presenting as "literally homeless," providing assistance and guidance to return them to safe, decent housing in the community as soon as possible (no more than 45 days, preferably in less than 30 days). The Client Services Navigator will work with those seeking services to identify the appropriate intervention that will resolve their current housing crisis. Through formal and informal assessment strategies, the Client Services Navigator will evaluate each household's individual housing barriers, needs and goals and develop an appropriate plan of action. This may include a housing search to identify a new rental unit, negotiation with family members to remain with them or even travel arrangements to an area where they have more natural supports (family and friends). Each housing solution must be crafted to suit the family or individual applicant. This position's primary responsibilities are to establish and maintain relationships with property owners and clientele in order to resolve housing crises as rapidly and sustainably as possible. The Client Services Navigator will work very closely with the TVCCA's Housing team to determine the appropriate level of financial assistance to resolve housing crises. The Client Services Navigator will be responsible for follow up case management and stabilization services for a period of up to one year.

TVCCA offers a generous benefits package including; 403B Retirement Plan, Medical, Dental, Vision, Life & Accidental Death benefits, short-term disability, long-term disability and voluntary benefits, 12 paid Holidays, vacation/sick time.

Required Skills

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree in a related field (Family Studies, Sociology, Social Work, etc.) plus three years' experience working with homeless families and/or individuals; or an Associate's Degree in a related field plus 5 years working with homeless populations and/or housing related programs.
• Must possess strong communication skills both written and verbal.
• The Client Services Navigator must have the empathy to work with households experiencing homelessness. Will provide crisis intervention services.
• This position requires knowledge of the issues facing the homeless and chronically homeless populations.
• Must be able to communicate with applicants, landlords, property managers, other community agencies and TVCCA and funding source administrations.
• Strong computer skills required. May be required to perform public speaking with community groups and other service providers.
• Must be organized and able to work with multiple households simultaneously.
• Will need a high level of negotiation and mediation skills. Must be able to build client files and keep them current and in a consistent manner.
• Must be willing to be a strong, diplomatic advocate for the clients of TVCCA Housing Programs.