Housing Navigator
The Housing Navigator serves as the homeless individual’s advocate throughout the process of locating, problem solving and obtaining housing and then supporting the tenant to transition to and stabilize in the housing. As a result, SVDP-SF continues to collaborate with the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing in launching this project. This job description may change both prior to hire, and after, as we continue to implement the best approach and services.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Screen and assess single adults experiencing homelessness using standardized tools, prioritization and referral protocols integrated into the ONE system and Salesforce.
- Maintain relationship with clients eligible for housing placement and problem-solving status. Identify guest behaviors that may jeopardize their housing and intervene when necessary to accomplish successful tenancy.
- Assist clients in completing housing applications, including obtaining all documents necessary for a successful application, be present in housing interviews and in grievance processes should applications be denied.
- Support clients in moving into new housing should applications be accepted.
- Provide supportive services to guests in order to promote stabilization and ensure successful tenancy.
- Connect clients with appropriate partner agencies through referrals and follow-up to ensure connections were made including arranging for necessary services, such as In-Home Support Services, prescribing primary care provider and/or psychiatrist.
- Provide support and education to address barriers to housing retention and practical transition of guests into housing, i.e. addressing the potential for isolation, how to pay bills, manage visitors and relationships, etc.
- Engage participants in problem solving dialogue to assess for additional resources accessible within the participant’s own network. Must be able to problem solve a variety of complex issues, and always maintain a high level of professionalism while doing so.
- After placement, provide follow up care. Maintain at least weekly contact for the first month and at least monthly contact up to 90 days to support linkages to on-site services (if available) and provision of linkages to community resources, case management and crisis intervention within a housing first and trauma-informed/harm reduction model.
- Assist client with the resolution of disputes and mitigation services.
- Advocate and link guests to eviction-prevention resources around the community.
- Interact with housing providers and site-based Tenant Services and Property Management services for shared clients including:
- Timely coordination regarding incident reports and issues impacting housing retention (e.g., late rent payment, habitability issues, refusing pest control) and participation in case conferences and/or housing retention meetings.
- Provide consultation for on-site Support Services and Property Management as needed regarding strategies to address client behavior negatively impacting housing retention.
- Assist guests with completing any required processes for Adult Coordinated Entry prioritization certification/re-certification processes.
- Maintain current treatment/service plan.
- Keep accurate records and charts; enter required data in ONE System, Salesforce and other databases as required.
- Draft monthly reports on service numbers, clients served, and achievements relating to exits to housing and problem-solving resolutions to Access Point Supervisor and Director of Homeless Services
- Provide professional, accessible and culturally relevant support, advocacy, information and referrals to program participants. Ensuring confidentiality of guest’s personal information as legally required.
- Work within and promote the integrated services team model in an environment dedicated to harm reduction, recovery, and wellness.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
REQUIREMENTS:
- Master’s degree in counseling psychology (MFT track) or social work (MSW track) preferred, with two years recent, full time paid experience in assessment, crisis intervention and case management of persons with mental, emotional and behavioral disorders preferably with the homeless population is preferred. Candidates with BA in psychology, social work or related field, plus 3-5 years full-time work experience closely related to job description may be considered.
- Substantial or demonstrated knowledge/experience working with individuals in crisis or unstable housing situations.
- A strong knowledge of issues confronted by and sensitivity to adults with substance abuse, domestic violence, HIV/AIDS, mental health issues, history of trauma and co-occurring-diagnoses.
- Demonstrated respect for, experience with and willingness to work with a diverse client population.
- Deep knowledge and understanding of the resources available to homeless and low-income residents of San Francisco.
- Articulate; exceptional verbal and written communication.
- Demonstrates the necessary attitudes, knowledge and skills to deliver culturally competent services and work effectively in cross-cultural situations.
- Professional and discreet demeanor with good interpersonal skills. Ability to handle confidential information and use of tact, respect, discretion and judgement.
- Organize material, information, and/or people in a systematic way to optimize efficiency and minimize harm or duplication of efforts.
- Experience working in integrated service teams using participant-centered, trauma-informed, harm-reduction approaches.
- Collaborative work style; demonstrated ability to work independently and effectively as an individual and part of a team for successful outcomes.
- Excellent Computer skills and knowledge of Microsoft Office software is required.
- Knowledge of current permanent supportive housing eligibility requirements, including HUD homeless regulations a plus.
- Knowledge of the ONE System and Salesforce preferred.
- Ability to maintain professional boundaries and work collaboratively with clients, volunteers and staff.
- Ability to be flexible and adapt to changes as our Coordinated Entry activities respond to lessons learned and emerging needs.
- Commitment to the mission of St. Vincent de Paul Society of San Francisco and its values.
Covid-19 vaccination and booster required.
The St. Vincent de Paul Society of San Francisco is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Interested candidates please send a cover letter with your resume for consideration to: