Housing Resource Specialist

Position Title: Housing Resource Specialist Classifications: H.S. 01-04* ($17.44 - $18.60 - $19.68 - *$20.89)Hours: 40/weekImmediate Supervisor: Housing CoordinatorLocation: Ionia County, Montcalm County, Shiawassee CountyMission StatementEightCAP, Inc. improves our community by collaborating with private, government, and community organizations to deliver programs that alleviate the causes of poverty and its effects, allowing individuals to become self-sufficient. The Community Resource Specialist plays a vital role in this mission by connecting clients with essential resources and addressing immediate needs to promote stability and independence.Role OverviewThe Housing Program Specialist works directly with individuals and families to assist them in overcoming housing instability and achieving permanent housing. This role focuses on client support, housing stabilization, and building relationships with landlords and community partners. The Housing Program Specialist ensures that clients are connected with appropriate resources and services to meet their housing needs effectively.Key ResponsibilitiesClient Intake and Assessment: Conduct thorough intake assessments for individuals and families facing homelessness or at risk, ensuring intake is completed promptly upon initial contact. Evaluate eligibility for emergency assistance programs (rent, utilities, motel stays) community benefits (TANF, SSI, Medicaid, etc.), and other agency programs such as HeadStart and Weatherization, with a focus on timely access to resources.Housing Plan Development and Case Management: Maintain a case load of clients to create individualized housing plans aimed at achieving long-term stability, while ensuring staff's housing plans are completed shortly after intake. Provide consistent case management oversite that focuses on self-sufficiency and includes regular and timely follow-up to track client progress and make necessary adjustments.Resource Coordination and Referral: Serve as a liaison between clients and various community resources, establishing referral connections that align with each client's needs in areas like healthcare, employment, and education. Proactively work with staff to identify and connect clients with relevant local resources to support their journey toward housing stability and self-sufficiency.Housing Quality and Landlord Relations: Oversee as well has help conduct regular on-site housing quality checks and inspections, maintaining a strong focus on safe and secure living conditions. Build and maintain relationships with landlords and property managers to expand housing options for clients and facilitate smooth placements.Documentation and Compliance: Work with staff to maintain accurate and complete client records, ensuring that documentation is kept up-to-date and all case notes are promptly entered. Adhere to program standards for documentation and reporting, contributing to program compliance and data accuracy.Community Collaboration and Continuous Improvement: Actively participate in local Continuum of Care meetings, offering insights and collaborating on shared housing objectives. Support the Continuous Quality Improvement goals by providing program updates and insights that drive enhanced client services.Client Outcomes and Follow-Up: Ensure the tracking of client outcomes, focusing on housing stability and progress toward self-sufficiency. Follow-up with assessments to monitor continued stability and provide additional support as needed, promoting sustained success beyond program completion.Other Duties As Assigned: Adapt to evolving organizational needs by taking on additional responsibilities that support the team and further EightCAP's mission. Be prepared to handle tasks outside of regular duties, demonstrating flexibility, initiative, and a commitment to teamwork in meeting the needs of clients, colleagues, and community partners.Our CORE Values at WorkAccountability: Take ownership of responsibilities, ensuring documentation accuracy, timely assistance, and adherence to program standards.Communication: Ensure open, clear, and responsive communication with clients, team members, and community partners.Compassion: Approach every client interaction with empathy, recognizing the unique challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness.Empowerment: Focus on empowering clients to achieve self-sufficiency and long-term housing stability through guidance and resource access.QualificationsRequired: Associate's degree in Human Services, Social Work, or related field or High school diploma or equivalent; with three years of relevant experience.Preferred: Bachelor's degree in a related field; experience with Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) or other databases; knowledge of local housing resources and HUD programs.Ability to maintain DHHS MIBridge's Navigator status.Valid Michigan driver's license with a satisfactory driving record and reliable transportation.Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.Successful clearance of DHS Central Registry and Criminal History Record Check.BenefitsBenefits include health, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, medical flex, and a 401k with a 5% employer match on your one-year anniversary. Benefits begin on your 31st day of employment.