Housing Case Manager

Description

Why Volunteers of America?

VOAC recognizes the unique needs of the older adult who needs a wheelchair ramp to stay at home safely, and the preschooler whose family needs additional resources. VOAC supports veteran’s efforts to exit homelessness as well as provides a safe place for survivors of domestic violence. Wherever VOAC goes, it combines relationship-building, volunteers and quality services to lift and support our neighbor’s efforts to become self-sufficient and reach their full potential.

**The Housing Case Manager provides direct services and housing support to individuals residing in the Lakewood Navigation Center, a 103-bed congregate shelter serving both men and women. This role applies best practices including Housing Focused, Trauma-Informed Care, Harm Reduction, Motivational Interviewing, Crisis De-escalation, and Critical Time Intervention

Key responsibilities include:

· Service Delivery: Conduct needs-based assessments, determine program eligibility, and provide individualized case management to support shelter stability and housing goals.

· Housing Support: Assist participants in securing and maintaining housing, including determining rental amounts, recruiting, and mediating with landlords, and connecting guests to income and public benefits.

· Community Engagement: Participate in outreach, collaborate with service providers and multidisciplinary teams, and attend relevant meetings and training.

· Documentation & Compliance: Maintain thorough records in multiple databases as required by funders and the organization. Ensure staff and participants have access to community referrals.

· Program Development: May develop specialized services based on participant needs and is expected to apply current best practices in service delivery.

Professional Standards: Use a personal vehicle for fieldwork, maintain consistent attendance, and uphold the Social Work Code of Ethics. Approximately 90% of participants are expected to engage in case management services.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

· Participant Engagement: Conduct needs-based assessments, facilitate intakes and housing orientations, and ensure consistent engagement in case management services.

· Housing Support: Assist participants in securing and maintaining housing, including collecting required documentation, completing rental applications, interpreting leases, and educating tenant rights and responsibilities.

· Service Coordination: Collaborate with community providers and multidisciplinary teams to deliver tailored support services. Coordinate emergency housing and relocation as needed.

· Program Implementation: Develop and monitor quality housing-focused services that promote stability and support participants with substantial barriers to housing.

· Documentation & Compliance: Maintain accurate records in Service Point and HMIS, including eligibility, demographics, chronic homelessness, and disability documentation. Ensure timely data entry and reporting per grant requirements.

· Community Engagement: Participate in outreach efforts and maintain relationships with external agencies. Administer Coordinated Entry Standard Assessments and ensure participant enrollment in ONEHOME.

· Professional Standards: Attend training, meetings, and workshops. Provide mentorship and training on best practices. Maintain confidentiality and uphold the Social Work Code of Ethics.

· Safety & Crisis Response: Promote physical and emotional safety within the facility. Address guest conflicts, de-escalate crises, and engage emergency personnel when necessary.

· Performs job responsibilities in accordance with the Social Work Code of Ethics.

Performs all other duties as assigned

Anticipated Outcomes

· Ensure the occupancy rate at shelters remains at 90% or higher.

· Ensures that 30% of all households who exit, do so into a stable or permanent housing solution, and that 50% of these households engage in rehousing services.

· Facilities always remain “tour ready” including all safety concerns addressed within 48 hours.

· Ensure all other outcomes are met as required by the funding source and Volunteers of America Colorado.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements

· Must be able to drive between programs and community meetings.

· May be required to cover shifts at residential programs.

· Ability to quickly and safely go up and down stairs regularly throughout the shift to