Job Description

The work involves responsibility for providing housing services for youth in foster care. The Housing Specialist will work directly with youth in Foster Care to transition to appropriate housing. The Housing Specialist will also help youth map out a long term housing plan including living independently and possibly having their own residence. The Housing Specialist will also connect youth with appropriate alternative housing programs. The Housing Specialist will work to identify appropriate housing subsidy programs and facilitate the application process. The Housing Specialist will also focus specifically on the needs of youth ages 18-20 since they will age out of care.

About Abbott House

Abbott House is an innovative community-based organization that helps children, families, adults and people with intellectual and developmental disabilities with complex needs build lasting foundations for a promising future. We operate programs in the New York Metropolitan area and Hudson Valley.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct mandated and enhanced housing Training Workshops.

• Develop workshops and seminars which teach young adults how to locate and obtain housing, read apartment ads, and negotiate with landlords and realtors.

• Conduct housing assessments and develop individual housing plans for youth referred by Life Skills Specialists and/or Social Workers.

• Develop relationships with community organizations offering transitional housing and make appropriate referrals.

• Monitor and supervise all stages of the housing application processes including but not limited to:

-initial application with all supporting documentation

-initial interview

-second interview

-apartment search

-negotiation with landlord

-preparing financial documents o inspection of apartment

-signing leases

-actual move-in

• Arrange and attend housing interviews.

• Should be familiar with local SILP programs and guide interested youth through those processes including application and interview.

• Establish relationship with ACS housing personnel.

• Follow up with ACS as necessary on status of housing applications.

• Work effectively with management companies, real estate offices, and supportive/transitional housing programs to meet the needs of youth.

• Meet weekly with the Educational and Employment Specialists to discuss all youth over age 20.

• Obtain current information about housing programs in a geographical area in which the youth resides.

About You

You are the ideal candidate if you enjoy working in the social services field while empowering underserved communities. Being compassionate, reliable, self-motivated, and a team player are critical attributes to being successful in this role.

• Possession of a Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university required. Experience working with youth in Foster Care preferred

• Must possess a valid NYS Drivers license at the time of appointment and maintain such license for the duration of employment. Must be willing to work flexible hours.

• Working knowledge of the modern principles and practices of social work with youth;

• Working knowledge of researching and engaging community services;

• Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships;

• Ability to communicate effectively with SED population;

• Ability to plan and collaborate with youth and their team;

• Computer literacy and familiarity with Connx;

• Ability to plan, lead, conduct groups with youth and adult training sessions;

• Ability to make oral and written reports;

• Very Good judgment;

• Ability to model and present professionally;

• Good assessment and interviewing and counseling skills;

• Excellent communication skills necessary;

• Administrative experience and ability to work independently required;

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $47,000.00 - $50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 403(b)

• Dental insurance

• Flexible spending account

• Health insurance

• Life insurance

• Loan forgiveness

• Paid time off

• Retirement plan

• Tuition reimbursement

• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Experience:

• Case management: 1 year (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Bronx, NY (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Bronx, NY: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person