What are the responsibilities and job description for the REHOUSING SPECIALIST position at Affordable Housing Alliance Inc?
RESPONSIBLE TO: Program Manager – Homeless Services
About the AHA
Founded in 1991 to address the overwhelming need for affordable housing in Monmouth County, the Affordable Housing Alliance (AHA) has grown from a small $25,000 grant into a multi million dollar annual operation and powerhouse non-profit. In our decades of service, we've developed over 600 affordable housing units with a strong pipeline fueling future growth. Our passionate team of difference-makers guides residents through every step of the housing journey - from homelessness prevention and rental assistance, to homebuyer education and foreclosure counseling.
At the Affordable Housing Alliance (AHA), we believe that safe, decent and affordable housing is a fundamental human right. Everyone deserves to feel secure, comfortable and supported in the place they call home. As a catalyst for change in our community, the AHA strives to uphold this right by providing comprehensive housing services and solutions for all who need it most.
Our Core Values
- Integrity- We demonstrate honesty and unwavering ethical conduct in all of our actions. At the AHA, we build trust through transparency and hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards.
- Hope - We meet each person where they are in their unique journey with genuine understanding. By offering tangible assistance, we nurture hope and empower individuals to build their path forward.
- Adaptability- We embrace change as an opportunity to innovate and grow stronger. At the AHA, we respond dynamically to evolving community needs, turning challenges into possibilities for those we serve.
Community Service - We dedicate ourselves to uplifting others and improving lives through meaningful action. At the AHA, we create positive change by empowering individuals, fostering independence, and building a more vibrant community for all.
JOB SUMMARY:
The Re-Housing Specialist will be responsible for assisting homeless individuals with locating housing and completing various applications for supportive services and rental assistance. As a Re-Housing Specialist, you'll work with households who have experienced homelessness to build lasting housing stability through personalized support and resource connection. Your role centers on strengthening each person's foundation for independence by linking them with essential services, building life skills, and developing sustainable support networks.
The ideal Re-Housing Specialist brings a passionate commitment to housing first and trauma-informed services through dignified, low-barrier support. You'll connect clients with community resources that enhance stability, such as employment services, healthcare access, financial education, and peer support networks. By focusing on sustainable solutions and client empowerment, you'll help individuals maintain their housing while developing the tools for lasting independence.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/DUTIES:
Client Services and Case Management
Accepts referrals through the AHA Homeless Coordinated Entry team, and assess clients to determine program appropriateness and suitability.
Create individualized treatment plans for client’s post-placement to support long-term housing stability.
Develop personalized action plans for each client to maintain housing stability and prevent homelessness.
Monitor client progress to determine eligibility for continued financial assistance.
Provide necessary documentation for all requested funds, including security deposits, utility bills, and other initial move-in costs.
Perform inspections for potential apartments and home visits once clients are housed
Community Outreach and Collaboration
Develop community relationships with landlords, real estate agencies, and city affordable housing organizations to identify housing opportunities for clients.
Attend county rehousing meetings to review open cases and coordinate with other service providers.
Data Management and Reporting
Promptly create and maintain regular updates to client files with accurate service plans, progress notes, and outcomes in the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS)- Ensure accurate and complete information is entered in HMIS.
Ensure all documents are scanned into agency databases as part of case management procedures.
Maintain accurate records and generate client reports as requested, running and correcting system errors on a monthly basis or as directed by supervisory staff.
Team Collaboration and Support
Participate in weekly team meetings to discuss client progress, case updates, and team collaboration.
Attend staff meetings and in-service training sessions, and participate in required certification training programs as assigned by the supervisor.
QUALIFICATIONS/EDUCATION
- High School Diploma or equivalent
- Associate's degree or two years of relevant experience in social services, case management, or related field
- Strong commitment to the housing first philosophy, trauma-informed approach, and low-barrier service delivery methods
- Strong interpersonal skills with demonstrated ability to conduct effective interviews and maintain client confidentiality
- Proven ability to read, interpret and implement program policies and procedures
- Experience working with individuals facing financial hardship, homelessness or vulnerable populations
- Proficiency in budget calculations and financial documentation review
- Strong attention to detail with excellent data entry skills
- Outstanding verbal and written communication abilities
- Local and statewide travel is required; candidates must have a driver’s license and use of a car during work hours.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience with HMIS or similar database systems
- Experience with Medicaid Billing
- Knowledge of community resources and social service programs
- Experience in crisis intervention and client advocacy
CORE COMPETENCIES
- Demonstrates empathy and cultural sensitivity when working with diverse populations
- Maintains professional boundaries while delivering compassionate service
- Exhibits strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities
- Collaborates effectively with team members and community partners
- Adapts quickly to changing situations and program requirements
We Encourage Applicants Who:
- Have experienced homelessness or housing insecurity and understand the barriers and opportunities within these experiences
- Are passionate about using their experiences to support others and advocate for change
- Bring a personal understanding of systemic challenges related to economic insecurity