Americorps Housing Navigator

Service Position Details

USARA acts as a host site through the Salt Lake County’s Most Vulnerable Populations Americorps Program. The Housing Navigator position is a 12 month service commitment with a 900 hour requirement (18-20 hours per week). Americorps member will receive a stipend amount of $11,187 during their term of service (paid $428.80 biweekly). Additionally, upon successful completion of a term of service, Americorps member will receive an education award of $3,447.50. USARA’s business hours are 9 AM-5 PM Monday through Friday and allows for flexibility for Housing Navigator to set a consistent schedule.

Primary Responsibilities

This role will include navigating housing resources, developing partnerships with housing agencies, and directly assisting participants in securing stable housing.

• Engagement with Community Partners and Agencies: Develop and maintain relationships with local agencies and partners that assist individuals and families impacted by substance use and mental health conditions.
• Assistance in Navigating Housing Resources: Guide participants through Salt Lake County's housing resources, including emergency housing options, housing/rental assistance programs, and utility assistance. Act as an advocate for all participants.
• Prevention of Homelessness: Actively work with participants at risk of losing their housing, and those who need housing, implementing strategies to prevent homelessness, and gain stable housing.
• Case Documentation and Follow-Up: Regular documentation of each case, including progress made and resources utilized, will be a key part of the role.
• Supervision: Weekly check-in with supervisor. Participate in required Americorps Member quarterly trainings. Work with supervisor to receive a mid-term and a final evaluation.

Learning Objectives

• Gain knowledge regarding safe and affordable housing.
• Gain experience regarding community outreach and partnerships.
• Gain experience to help people increase housing options.
• Become familiar with Trauma Informed Care and Housing First philosophies.
• Learn to solve complex situations with professionalism, empathy and from a Trauma Informed Care perspective.

Skills & Competencies

• Experience working in and/or education in the Social Service field a plus
• Experience with case management a plus
• Strong internet and computer navigation skills
• Aware of issues impacting individuals who have been or are homeless
• Strong communication skills (verbally and in writing)
• Effectively establish working relationships with co-workers, other professionals, and community partners
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively
• Maintain participant confidentiality
• Display cultural competency, appreciation, compassion and understanding for the needs of clients
• Flexible schedule to allow for working occasional evenings and weekends

Minimum Requirements

• Pass FBI, State, and the National Sex Offender criminal background checks
• High School Diploma or equivalent (GED)