Shared Housing Navigator

The Shared Housing Navigator plays a critical role in supporting individuals and families experiencing homelessness to achieve stable, permanent housing. This position requires a strong knowledge of available resources and the ability to link participants with essential programs. Utilizing the Housing First model, the Navigator serves as an advocate, referral agent, and facilitator, collaborating with property owners, government agencies, homeless service providers, and community stakeholders to foster participant success.

Key Responsibilities

Participant Intake and Assessment

• Conduct participant intake and assess individual needs.
• Guide participants through the Coordinated Entry System (CES) process, ensuring a smooth transition to permanent housing.

Permanent Housing Identification

• Identify suitable housing options based on participant needs, preferences, and barriers.
• Analyze and match participants with housing solutions that align with their unique circumstances.

Comprehensive Support and Resource Access

• Provide referrals, advocacy, and support for participants in areas such as healthcare, mental health, benefits, employment, and transportation.
• Ensure participants access resources necessary for long-term housing stability.

Assistance with Documentation

• Help participants obtain critical documents such as identification cards, birth certificates, and income documentation.

Housing Search and Financial Assistance

• Support participants in finding affordable housing, completing rental applications, and accessing move-in cost funding if eligible.

Collaboration with Service Providers and Stakeholders

• Build strong relationships with property owners, management companies, employers, and service providers to further the shared housing mission.

Participant Follow-Up and Goal Support

• Maintain regular contact with participants to evaluate goals and provide ongoing support for housing success.

Shared Housing Portal Assistance

• Assist clients and referral partners with navigating the Shared Housing online portal and offer technical support as needed.

Outreach and Community Engagement

• Engage in outreach efforts, including phone calls, emails, presentations, trainings, and participation in resource fairs.

Case Documentation and Confidentiality

• Maintain organized, timely, and professional case notes and documentation in compliance with HIPAA and privacy standards.

Team Collaboration and Development

• Attend staff meetings, case conferences, and training sessions to enhance skills and knowledge.

Best Practices Implementation

• Apply evidence-based practices such as Trauma-Informed Care (TIC), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Harm Reduction, and Housing First principles.

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of the Housing First model and available community resources.
• Experience with intake, assessment, and case management in a housing or social services setting.
• Familiarity with the Coordinated Entry System (CES) and shared housing concepts.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations and stakeholders, including property owners and service providers.
• Proficiency in maintaining organized case files and ensuring confidentiality.
• Strong communication, advocacy, and outreach skills.
• Knowledge of best practice techniques like TIC, MI, and Harm Reduction is highly desirable.

Preferred Experience and Skills

• Experience in working with individuals experiencing homelessness or housing instability.
• Familiarity with shared housing portals or similar technology platforms.
• Ability to navigate complex social service systems and advocate for participant needs.