Housing Navigator_FT

The YWCA is seeking a Housing Navigator in Springfield, MA. The Homelessness Services Outreach Navigator will have an integral role in connecting homeless survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) who are in crisis to housing and social services supports in the community. The position will support the YWCA Domestic Violence Homelessness Helpline by assessing the needs of callers and providing appropriate, effective, trauma-informed referrals and resources. The Outreach Navigator will work in an on-call capacity including being dispatched virtually or in-person to meet with a survivor following an incident of violence. Once the survivor is referred to the program, the Navigator will use trauma-informed interviewing techniques to screen for diversion, prevention, shelter and/or housing needs, vulnerability/prioritization indices, and program eligibility for Rapid Rehousing.   

Reports to: DV Coordinated Entry Program Coordinator

Schedule: Full-Time, 37.5 hours/week Monday – Friday with rotational responsibility for on-call staffing

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Starting Rate: $22.05/hour

Primary Responsibilities for the position include, but are not limited to:

• Demonstrate support for Coordinated Entry System (CES) guiding principles, including fair and equal access, safety planning, referral protocols, and consultation.
• Collaborate with a network of CES community partners including outreach workers, shelter case managers, housing and other service providers, and understand all roles and responsibilities within the CES.
• Oversee the YWCA’s DV Homelessness Helpful by responding to calls, making referrals, and helping the caller to create a safety plan.
• Determine program eligibility and make appropriate referrals for callers who do not meet eligibility criteria. 
• Serve in an on-call capacity on a rotating schedule to be dispatched virtually or in-person to meet with a survivor immediately following a violent incident at area hospitals, community health centers, police stations, courthouses, or other locations at which physical distancing is possible. Help develop a plan for safety and begin the CE process when appropriate.
• Engage survivors in-person by observing nonverbal signs of misunderstanding or concern, and build trust with survivors who may be experiencing anxiety, stress, or fear to effectively utilize the Helpline.
• Participate in CES development and other trainings as they are offered, and will be flexible to the job role evolving as the CES evolves to best meet the needs of the population served.  

Qualifications

• 1 - 3 years of experience in human services , social work, or related field or relevant experience;
• Lived experience with homelessness or domestic violence;
• Two years of work experience in housing services, placement, and/or case management;  
• Spanish language proficiency preferred;
• Experience with and knowledge of accessing housing, homelessness, social service, and other community-based resources; 
• Experience with survivors of violence and exploitation;
• Experience addressing the impacts of decisions and actions on multiple communities;
• Understanding of both interpersonal and structural racism and bias;
• Excellent communication, organizational, problem-solving, and computer skills;
• Access to reliable transportation and valid driver’s license required. Must be able to be covered by the agency's insurance policy; and 

Physical Requirements

Must be able to lift 40 lbs.

This position is covered under the CBA (union) and is subject to union dues.

URL: www.ywworks.org/employment 

INTRODUCTORY PERIOD

All employment at the YWCA begins with a 150-day Introductory Period.