Housing Stabilization Case Manager - 30 hrs.

 Just A Start believes that access to stable housing and sustainable careers are the essential building blocks of equitable communities. For more than 50 years, we have focused on meeting the fundamental needs of individuals and families who have been systemically denied opportunities to realize their full potential. Our programs include affordable housing, education and job training, and comprehensive support services, spanning Cambridge and beyond. We have developed and currently maintain 600 affordable apartments. To keep community members housed, we also offer financial and technical assistance to prevent evictions, and support low- and moderate-income homeowners. Finally, we prepare individuals of all ages and circumstances with the skills and knowledge they need to secure fulfilling careers, leveraging their talents to achieve economic mobility and strengthen the region’s workforce.  

 

Just A Start’s approach to housing stabilization is unique and focuses on combining conflict resolution, coaching, legal education, and rental assistance. We are seeking a person to join our Housing Resources Team who is passionate about the needs of tenants and housing providers and helps to promote this larger mission by coordinating our team’s rental assistance program needs. Just A Start is moving from mainly remote work to a more permanent hybrid model. One day a week in the office is expected at first and may increase to 2-3 days in the office/week at a later date.

The Housing Stabilization Case Manager will provide access to rental assistance for clients with a focus on landlord/tenant relationships. This person will help implement housing stabilization efforts including homelessness prevention case management and provide access to financial assistance as part of the Housing Resources Team. 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

·       Complete and maintain client files by reviewing paperwork; collecting documentation from clients, property owners, and advocates; and maintaining a caseload of program participants

·       Keep up to date on rental assistance programs in order to make appropriate internal and external referrals. Provide assessment and housing specialist services for tenants at risk of eviction

REQUIREMENTS:

·       Experience in case management or intake and assessment with households at risk of homelessness;

·       Familiarity with affordable housing and housing subsidies;

·       Experience with crisis intervention regarding issues such as homelessness and affordable housing access;

·       Knowledge and experience with resources for low-income and/or homeless individuals and families;

·       Willingness to work as part of a team to promote the goals of the program and agency;

·       Sensitivity to the needs of low-income and diverse populations;

·       Excellent time management, organizational, communication, and writing skills;

·       Excellent oral and written communication skills

·       Excellent problem solving and people skills

·       Ability to think creatively and flexibly, in a non-traditional model, to resolve the fundamental issues that can impact housing stability

·       Cultural competency and ability to establish effective professional relationships with diverse group of participants.

·       Proficient in Microsoft Office including Power Point, intermediate Excel/Word

·       Bi-lingual in Spanish, Haitian Creole, or Portuguese, preferred

·       Valid driver’s license.

·       BS/BA required

This is a 30 hour per week position, starting at $26-$29/per hour, with full benefit eligibility including medical, dental, PTO, VTO, 13 paid holidays and 401k with 3% employer contribution

Just A Start is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  Our staff represents a wide range of ages, races, interests, and backgrounds coming together in pursuit of common goals.   We value diversity and work together to create an inclusive culture where people from all backgrounds can thrive and belong.  Applications from women and people of color are strongly encouraged. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics or any other characteristic protected by law.