Housing Stabilization Specialist, Lutheran Settlement House

Posted by Lutheran Settlement House on February 12, 2018

Mission: Established in 1902, Lutheran Settlement House (LSH) is a non-profit, community-based organization committed to serving vulnerable children, adults, and families living in Philadelphia. Over the past century, the programs and services offered by LSH have changed in response to the evolving needs of the community. However, the core mission of LSH —”to empower individuals, families, and communities to achieve and maintain self-sufficiency through an integrated program of social, educational, and advocacy services”— has remained constant.
Scope of the position: Under the supervision of the Case Management and Adult Programming Supervisor, the Housing Stabilization Specialist provides support to families to help them avoid homelessness. The Housing Stabilization Specialist will focus on assisting families (approximately 35) with issues specific to retaining housing and will provide linkages to other resources within LSH and externally for their social service needs. This position requires evening and weekend hours to meet with families that are not available during the standard business day. This position requires travel throughout Philadelphia.

Functions and Duties:

1. To conduct 1:1 intake interviews with families five days a week referred to LSH by Appletree Family Center, Roosevelt Darby Center and OHS’s Emergency Assistance and Relocation Unit.
2. Using LSH’s Housing Plan Assessment Tool, determine the exact type of assistance families need to locate/remain in stable housing
3. For those that need financial assistance, determine the minimum amount of financial assistance they need and the level at which they can contribute financially
4. For households receiving financial assistance for more than one month – create an action plan addressing their specific barriers to housing stabilization
5. Provide housing counseling and mediation services including helping families to: 1) stay safely housed with family members, 2) return to their own residence, 3) understand Tenant’s Rights & Responsibilities and lease agreements, 4) secure utilities, 5) make moving arrangements and secure furniture, and 6) conduct basic personal financial management activities
6. Arrange for housing inspections for new housing placements to insure housing meets HUD Habitability Standards
7. Refer households in need of intensive or long-term services to the appropriate resources
8. Enter all required data into HMIS system and participate in trainings and meetings sponsored by OHS

Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree (BA) in social work or related field required; or two to five years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. The individual is expected to demonstrate understanding of the dynamics of homelessness, knowledge of community resources, and sensitivity to the needs of high risk populations and their families. Applicant must have the ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing; they must be organized, computer savvy and comfortable with data entry. In addition the individual is expected to present good-listening skills; demonstrate effective problem solving skills; and be able to work with a diverse group of individuals.

https://www.idealist.org/en/nonprofit-job/45403692b291485ea2426d4669b217bf-housing-stabilization-specialist-lutheran-settlement-house-philadelphia?