Housing Specialist

ABOUT US: - We believe that everyone deserves a home!


Breaking Ground operates nearly 4,000 units of housing across New York City, along with housing in upstate New York and Connecticut. Supportive housing - affordable housing paired with services designed to help people maintain their homes for the long-term - is widely recognized as a proven and cost-effective solution to chronic homelessness.


But we didn't stop at providing housing. Breaking Ground's programs and services help people experiencing street homelessness - especially those who have been on the streets the longest - to come indoors. Through our Street to Home outreach program and transitional housing resources, we help people get, and stay, on the path to a permanent home.


Located in Brooklyn, the Williamsburg Safe Haven serves 78 individuals not yet ready to transition into permanent housing, as well as those who may have struggled in other housing programs. The Williamsburg Safe Haven offers an alternative to life on the street: private, safe, clean, and affordable short-term accommodations. On-site case management and clinical services are available to meet the needs of its residents and to help those ready to move into secure permanent housing.


The Housing Specialist works closely with clients, members of the city contracted outreach teams, and partner agencies to prepare clients for permanent housing. The Housing Specialist will help achieve program targets by expediting the housing placement process by Aassisting residents in achieving housing readiness, establishing eligibility profile, seeking out and matching permanent housing opportunities. In coordination with the Clinical Coordinator and case management team, the Housing Specialist helps complete and submit housing applications, secure housing interviews, assist with mock interviews, conduct housing related groups, escort clients to appointments, and assist in move-ins.

• Ensure clients are prepared for the housing process by conducting mock interviews, groups, escorts to housing interviews, and ensuring that all necessary documents for housing applications have been secured
• Help prepare and review HRA 2010e and other appropriate housing applications
• Clearly communicate with case management staff regarding upcoming interviews, sent applications, and follow-up with housing providers, via progress notes, staff meetings and weekly supervision
• Track clients progress towards housing readiness
• Identify and maintain a wide array of housing options and resources, including building relationships with fair market landlords and rented rooms when appropriate
• Ensure that clients are matched and placed in housing appropriate to their needs
• Escort clients to appointments as needed
• Perform other related duties as assigned

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience
• Substance abuse, homelessness, motivational interviewing, mental health conditions, preferred
• Two years' experience, preferably in a non-profit or real estate environment, knowledge of supportive housing and DHS housing programs preferred
• Previous experience working with homeless/formerly homeless populations, adults with substance abuse /dual diagnosis preferred
• Excellent interpersonal and problem-solving skills
• Strong writing and verbal communication skills
• Bilingual in Spanish and English preferred
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office
• Experience with HRA 2010e, AWARDS /Foothold and CARES preferred
• Ability to handle multiple tasks in a fast paced, dynamic team environment and willingness to shift easily between various responsibilities with diverse populations
• Must be able to use public transportation to accompany clients to appointments. Must be willing and able to engage in moderate physical activity to engage with street homeless individuals. Such activities include and are not limited to moderate walking and climbing