Supportive Service Specialist - Supportive Housing

POSITION SUMMARY:

The YMCA of Newark is seeking a full time Supportive Service Specialist for the Supportive Housing Program under the Housing/Social Responsibility department of the YMCA. Under the direction of the Supportive Housing Director, the Supportive Service Specialist provides case management and support for the clients of the YMCA of Newark and Vicinity’s project based and scattered site supportive housing. This Specialist is responsible for overseeing of landlord relationships, lease programs, home-share program for those living in permanent supportive housing, finding and retaining housing, plus identifying sources for housing funding, housing-based education, credit counseling and linkage to appropriate related community resources, all in accordance with the Association’s established policies and procedures and the legally mandated licensing standards.

SUMMARY OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Maintain compelling case management and services focused on moving people out of homelessness quickly as well as preventing homelessness.
• Assist the Supportive Housing Director to develop a comprehensive outreach/ working relationship with stakeholders including other community members, especially landlords and implement a landlord recruitment and retention plan.
• Assist the Supportive Housing Director to develop new program components as directed and provide on-going education classes on related housing topics.
• Ensure compliance with standards as delineated in Newark Housing Authority (NHA) Collaborative Supportive Program (CSP) when providing case management.
• Provide case management and recordkeeping including but not limited to intake; service planning; service delivery such as advocating for clients with property owners/managers as necessary and providing resource information; and case closure.
• Evaluate program-specific outcomes to ensure program effectiveness and impact and report the outcome to the Supportive Housing Director.
• Maintain awareness of changes in market and community processes that can impact services; bring forward prospective recommendations to the Supportive Housing Director.
• Ensure the permanent supportive housing program for chronically homeless is in alignment with Housing First model.
• Maintain a broad-based working knowledge of HUD, its Housing Counseling Handbook and local housing programs.
• Perform home visits and off-site case management meetings.
• Coordinate case management with other human service providers assisting clients.
• Maintain up-to-date client files and program statistics, including, but not limited to, client data, volunteer service sheets, and grant-related documentation.
• Ensure all clients’ information is inputted into HMIS accurately and in a timely manner.
• Participate in training as required by accreditation standards.
• Maintain materials, equipment, and forms necessary for program operations.
• Assist the Supportive Housing Director with special events and fund-raising activities to support new and existent residents.
• Ensure all Department Operations are consistent with the Association procedures. This includes safety, insurance, incident/accident reports, registrations, purchasing, HR and Payroll procedures, accounting, and maintain appropriate logs and records. Provide data and report as required for assigned programs.
• Maintain confidentiality as necessary in compliance with policies and regulations.
• Attend all trainings and meetings as required.
• Maintain a safe work environment, free of clutter, debris and hazardous conditions and ensure cleanliness of facility.
• Provide excellent customer service and care for all including but not limited to internal and external customers/ members/ residents/ visitors/ clients/ patrons/ vendors/ suppliers/ staff/ volunteers.
• Demonstrate and model the YMCA’s four core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.
• Perform such other job-related duties as may be periodically assigned by the Supervisor.
• Exhibit personal and professional behavior in a manner consistent with the best interest of the Association, so as not to bring discredit to the Association.
• Cooperate, work effectively and congenially with all YMCA staff members, volunteers, and members of the Association.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• B.A. or B.S. in Social Services or a related field and/or minimum five (5) years of experience within a Social Service agency.
• Minimum two years of experience with shelter or outreach services required.
• Knowledge of principles and practices of social work, social and economic problems, and state and local resource agencies.
• Proficient computer skills including Microsoft (Word, Excel, Power-point), data entry, utilizing emails and internet. knowledge of Homeless Management Information System (HMIS).
• Knowledge of federal, state and/or community related regulations.
• Strong administrative and record maintenance skills.
• Strong human relations and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills including negotiation, presentation skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
• Excellent time management skills and strong organizational skills.
• Must have strong attention to details.
• Ability to manage, perform and prioritize multiple and complex tasks and projects independently.
• Ability to analyze complex information and to define and solve problems.
• Ability to demonstrate passion, enthusiasm and support for mission and values of the YMCA.
• Ability to create a culture of serving the population and staff within Housing & Social Responsibility department.
• Ability to work closely with other employees and team members to ensure a positive and constructive environment within the program or department and throughout the agency.
• Flexibility in work schedule when needed, may require holidays, evenings, and weekend work.
• Must possess a valid New Jersey driver’s license and a safe driving record.
• Certification in first aid and CPR is desired.
• Bilingual ability (English/Spanish) preferred.
• This is an opportunity to impact the communities we serve and make a long-lasting and positive difference in the lives of others who need support!

The YMCA of Newark and Vicinity is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Upon request, reasonable accommodation is available that does not create an undue hardship on the Y’s business, in accordance with applicable laws.