Description :
Are you searching for meaningful work that ensures the safety of children and helps to build strong families in the community? Then our Communities Connected for Kids program has an opportunity that will interest you! We are looking for a motivated, dedicated and compassionate individual to be a Housing Specialist!
Housing Specialist Position Expectations
As a Housing Specialist, you will be responsible for serving young adults transitioning out of foster care by focusing on building community relationships, identifying affordable, safe and community housing, and exploring new and existing fund sources to support housing initiatives for young adults.
As a part of Communities Connected for Kids, you will get the opportunity to work with other dedicated professionals who share your passion for helping individuals in need. We offer :
- Salary starting at $20.00 / hour (approx. $42,000 annually)
- Opportunities to make a positive impact in the lives of children in need of support
- Unique rewards that come from seeing families improve and flourish with the services you referred them to
- Quality Low-Cost Benefits and 30-day benefit eligibility waiting period for new hires! http : / / benefits.devereux.org
Our Communities Connected for Kids Program provides services for children and families in the child welfare system, to ensure a community without abuse, neglect and abandonment. Based out of Port Saint Lucie, FL, this position is responsible for serving young adults transitioning out of foster care by focusing on building community relationships, identifying affordable, safe and community housing, and exploring new and existing fund sources to support housing initiatives for young adults. Additional essential functions of the position include :
1. Internal Processes : Demonstrates a working knowledge of the child welfare dependency system and can work within the interdependence among internal and external operations. Recognizes how the responsibilities of the position contribute to the success and overall performance of the agency. Understands and practices the concepts of being trauma informed and trauma responsive.2. Program Delivery : Demonstrates the skills, knowledge, and ability to implement, develop, manage, and deliver program services and responsibilities. Actively identifies and assesses affordable housing options within the community, working closely with property owners, landlords, and real estate agents to secure suitable housing for young adults. Develops and implements innovative strategies to address the unique needs of young adults transitioning out of foster care, including but not limited to, flexible leasing arrangements, mentorship programs, and community-building initiatives. Conduct comprehensive assessments of youth's housing needs, preferences, and barriers. Develop individualized housing plans in collaboration with youth, incorporating goals for stability and self-sufficiency.3. Customers / Stakeholders : Establishes an operational environment and culture, which is aligned with CCKids strategies, initiatives, and practices. Fosters positive relations and interactions between all CCKids departments and employees, which promote the growth and image of the agency. Recognizes, understands, and develops strong internal, business and industry customer relationships. Establishes and maintains partnerships with local housing providers, community organizations, and stakeholders to enhance the availability of affordable and safe housing options for young adults transitioning out of foster care. Provides ongoing support and guidance to youth in securing safe and affordable housing options, including rental assistance programs, transitional housing, and independent living arrangements. Advocate on behalf of youth with landlords, housing agencies, and community organizations to overcome housing barriers and ensure access to suitable accommodations.4. Regulatory / Professional Practice : Demonstrates the skills, knowledge, and abilities to understand, implement, as well as influence regulatory guidelines and professional standards. Ensures regulatory compliance and adheres to professional standards.5. Time Management : Understands and demonstrates an ability to use time in an efficient and effective manner. Collaborates andcommunicates with co-workers to increase efficiency and enhance teams time management. Is aware of, and consistently meets established deadlines. Identifies and prioritizes multiple tasks to assure timely completion of projects and assigned tasks.
Communicates progress regarding completion of timelines / deadlines with co-workers, supervisors, and internal and external customers. Recommends and implements strategies to enhance time management skills.
6. Technology Skills : Demonstrates appropriate use of general office equipment and procedures such as copiers, printers, faxes, and phones. Demonstrates proficiency with computer keyboard and required computer applications such as Outlook, Windows, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, FSFN, Oracle, Kronos, Profiler, the Internet, and all other applicable computer programs.7. Quality Assurance : Participates in the quality process, when needed, to ensure compliance with all required standards.8. Risk and Safety Awareness : Works in a safe and appropriate manner. Follows all CCKids policies and procedures designed to maintain client, visitor, and employee safety. Reports any safety or risk concerns to their supervisor or Safety Committee member.9. Financial / Data Management : Follows all CCKids policies and procedures to maintain any client or employee data in a safe and secure manner. Understands the need for exercising financial responsibility with all CCKids resources and / or assets utilized as part of their job function and responsibilities. Researches, identifies, and pursues new and existing fund sources to support housing initiatives for young adults, including grant opportunities, subsidies, and collaborative partnerships with governmental and non-governmental entities.Denotes Essential Functions. Other related duties may be assigned as needed.Qualifications : Education :
Required : Associates degree in human services, social work, business administration, real estate, marketing, or related field from an accredited school or university.
Preferred : Bachelors degree in human services, social work, business administration, real estate, marketing, or related field from an accredited school or university.
Experience :
Required : Experience working with youth aging out of foster care, vulnerable populations or community housing. This may include employment in social services agencies, group homes, housing agencies, or nonprofit organizations.
Preferred : Knowledge of real estate, local housing resources, affordable housing programs, and landlord-tenant laws in Florida. Experience in case management, advocacy, and navigating social services systems.
Salary : $42,000
