What are the responsibilities and job description for the Housing Navigator/Case Manager position at Jewish Family Service of the Desert?
About us
Jewish Family Service of the Desert (JFS) is a nonsectarian provider of social services to residents of the Coachella Valley, currently offering in-person and telecare mental health counseling, case management, and community outreach services designed to reduce isolation and provide interaction. Additionally, we coordinate the local Cafe Europa program for Holocaust survivors and Cafe Europa 2.0 for local children of Holocaust survivors. We are a staff of 24 that provided about 15,000 services to nearly 2000 unduplicated persons last year. We collaborate with several local agencies and are a Platinum Guidestar agency and a 4-Star Charity Navigator-rated agency.
Position Overview
JFS Housing Navigator/Case Managers respond to requests for assistance from Coachella Valley residents (Navigation support Inland Empire). Callers often ask for assistance with housing, transportation, food support, assistance with public benefits applications, advocacy, referrals to resources, and other essentials. JFS Housing Navigator/Case Managers work with clients to offer stability and hope in an effort to meet all requested needs. A successful Housing Navigator/Case Manager empathizes with clients while establishing and maintaining boundaries; understands available services and connections to them; and utilizes colleagues and partners frequently. Housing Navigation involves assisting individuals and families in finding and securing stable, affordable housing, often working with homeless or at-risk populations. This includes housing assessments, application assistance, referrals to resources, and advocacy with landlords and housing providers.
JFS Housing Navigator/Case Managers:
- Identify and secure appropriate housing options (e.g., affordable apartments, subsidized housing, and emergency shelters).
- Assist clients with completing housing applications and paperwork, securing documents to be “doc ready”.
- Conduct housing assessments to determine client needs and eligibility.
- Provide information and referrals to relevant resources (e.g., homeless service providers and social service agencies).
- Advocate for clients with landlords and other organizations.
- Survey the rental market and identify suitable properties.
- Negotiate with landlords and real estate agents.
- Assess clients and discuss care coordination that may include advocacy on behalf of the client.
- As needed, offer clients connections to all JFS services as well as those of collaborating agencies or other area providers.
- Assist with IEHP Housing Navigation referrals.
- When appropriate, work with local agencies to offer clients a more robust solution.
- As needed, consult with JFS clinicians to receive any behavioral health consultation.
- Perform ad hoc projects as requested by the Director and other program duties as needs arise.
Job Requirements and Qualifications
Education:
- High School diploma required; Bachelor’s degree preferred (in social work, health/human services, psychology, or public health [preferred]).
Language:
- Bilingual Spanish/English
Knowledge Requirements:
- Working knowledge of housing navigation supports, referrals, resources, community partners, and the provision of health and other care in a variety of settings. Knowledge of community resources, insurance, and care delivery systems. Knowledge of the Jewish Community and cultures preferred.
- Knowledge of local (Inland Empire) housing resources and programs.
- Familiarity with Section 8 and other housing assistance programs (e.g., rapid rehousing, permanent supportive housing, transitional housing, sober living, etc.).
- Understanding of Housing First and Harm Reduction models.
- Knowledge of social work principles and practices.
Experience:
- At least two years of case management and housing navigation experience or equivalent, with all populations including the mature adult demographic.
Special Information:
- Reliable transportation is needed.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $46,675.00 - $61,089.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person
Salary : $46,675 - $61,089
