Housing Navigator

We are seeking a Housing Navigator to join our team at Independent Living Systems (ILS). ILS, along with its affiliated health plans known as Florida Community Care and Florida Complete Care, is committed to promoting a higher quality of life and maximizing independence for all vulnerable populations.

About the Role:

The Housing Navigator plays a critical role in connecting individuals and families experiencing housing instability with appropriate housing resources and support services within the healthcare sector. This position focuses on assessing client needs, identifying suitable housing options, and facilitating access to community resources to promote long-term housing stability and improved health outcomes. The Housing Navigator collaborates closely with healthcare providers, social service agencies, and landlords to coordinate care and ensure seamless transitions into safe and affordable housing. By providing personalized guidance and advocacy, the Housing Navigator helps reduce barriers to housing and supports clients in maintaining their housing arrangements. Ultimately, this role contributes to enhancing the overall well-being and quality of life for vulnerable populations through effective housing solutions integrated with healthcare services.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in social work, Psychology, Biology, Public Health, Nursing, Community Health, or Health related field or equivalent experience required.
• Requires at least 5 years of experience working with people who need assistance with complex health and social issues.
• Requires knowledge of and experience working with community agencies and programs.
• Requires experience with Medi-Cal eligibility guidelines, application, and renewal/redetermination process.
• Requires strong problem solving and customer service skills.
• Must have a strong understanding of the DHCS housing and tenancy program and services and requirements.
• Must demonstrate proficiency in or willingness to learn HMIS and other data entry systems.
• Must be a CA Resident, and must reside in CA while employed.
• Current and valid California (CA) Driver's License.
• Must use personal vehicle and current vehicle registration required.
• Proof of auto insurance required, must maintain CA minimum insurance coverage.
• BCLS CPR Certification required.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certification in case management or housing navigation.
• Experience working within healthcare settings or with interdisciplinary care teams.
• Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) and case management software.
• Bilingual abilities or proficiency in additional languages relevant to the community served.
• Training in trauma-informed care and cultural competency.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of clients' housing needs and barriers to stable housing and collaborates to develop Individualized Service Plan (ISP) that addresses housing goals, maintaining/increasing income and other personal goals identified by the participant including medical, mental health, substance use, financial resources, vocational, and social support needs
• Provides referrals, linkages, information, and support to resources that help participants to achieve their ISP goals
• Completes program specific assessments.
• Evaluates strengths and challenges to addressing short term and long-term goals, conducts a 90-day review with the participant after initial intake.
• Develop individualized housing plans in collaboration with clients and multidisciplinary teams.
• Identify and maintain up-to-date knowledge of available housing resources, subsidies, and community programs.
• Advocate on behalf of clients with landlords, housing authorities, and service providers to secure housing placements. Also must focus on landlord engagement and retention that involves negotiation and advocacy.
• Provide ongoing support and follow-up to ensure housing stability and address any emerging challenges.
• Coordinate with healthcare providers to integrate housing solutions with clients' health and social care plans.
• Maintain accurate documentation of client interactions, housing plans, and outcomes in compliance with organizational policies.
• Participate in community outreach and education efforts to raise awareness of housing resources and services.