Job description
POSITION: HOUSING ADVOCATE
STATUS: Full-time
CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt
REPORTS TO: Housing Program Manager
PAY RATE: $24.50
POSITION SUMMARY:
In partnership with the Department of Children and Family Services, the Housing Advocate will provide support to families experiencing inadequate housing, and youth who are at risk of becoming homeless upon emancipation from DCFS. The Housing Advocate will ensure participants receive case management and financial assistance to secure stable, permanent and affordable housing.
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES AND KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Evaluate emergency housing needs and provide immediate services including intake and referral
- Create unique housing action plans with specific client-advocate responsibilities, and revise regularly to reflect progress
- Assist in securing permanent and affordable housing by identifying local property vacancies and facilitating application process
- Develop professional relationships with landlords and maintain lists of housing providers in local areas
- Assist clients in securing funds to meet subsistence needs including, but not limited to, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Supplemental Security Income
- Educate clients on tenant rights and responsibilities, and provide financial literacy and life skills training
- Advocate for clients when accessing utility services, weatherization programs and other low-income energy assistance services
- Research employment opportunities and provide vocational counseling centered on client skills, strengths, and interests
- Maintain organized files, clear case notes, and detailed daily agendas
- Complete client and program reports on a monthly and quarterly basis
- Represent Spanish Community Center at community functions and at other events as requested
- Other duties as assigned
MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, human services, applied behavioral science, or related field
- Fluent in reading, writing and speaking in Spanish
- Two (2) years of experience in a social services or related agency
- Knowledge and skill in working with families in crisis or in sensitive situations
- Demonstrated high quality interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
- Professional demeanor and ability to prioritize responsibilities and function effectively during stressful or busy periods
- High degree of cultural sensitivity and ability to work effectively with families from diverse racial, socio-economic, ethnic and educational backgrounds
- Ability to engage, assess, motivate, and support participants using advocacy and coaching skills that are compassionate, strengths-based, and non-judgmental
- Must be able to pass a criminal background check
- Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
WORK SCHEDULE: Monday through Friday, 9am – 5pm
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $24.50 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Schedule:
- 4 hour shift
- Evenings as needed
- Monday to Friday
- Weekends as needed
Work Location: In person
History
The Spanish Community Center (SCC) has a special place in Will County’s history as an example of what a small group of committed individuals can do to make a difference.
Over 50 years ago, the Adler, Maher, and Hernandez personally responded to the needs of the migrant community in Joliet by founding the SCC out of a house located at 205 Herkimer St, before relocating to its current location in the early 1980's.
Today, the SCC stays true to its mission of serving as Will County’s only bilingual one-stop shop of social and educational services. Although originally focused on Spanish-speaking peoples, we proudly serve individuals of all backgrounds.
Our Mission
The Spanish Community Center helps improve the life for Latinos, immigrants, and low income people through educational and social services.
Our Vision
The Spanish Community Center is a bridge to the well-being of all members in an inclusive and engaged community.
Our Values
- Excellence
- Trust through integrity
- Welcoming environment through empathy and respect for all
- Belief in the potential of each individual
- Advocacy for and with the community
- The power of a diverse local community
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