Housing Access Specialist

The Housing Access Specialist serves as a welcoming access point for individuals and families experiencing homelessness or housing instability, helping participants navigate pathways toward safe housing and long‑term stability. Through CAPSC’s Coordinated Entry programs, this position conducts intake, assessment, and referrals to connect participants with housing opportunities, supportive services, and community resources while promoting equitable and timely access to assistance. Using a housing‑focused, trauma‑informed, and participant‑centered approach, the Housing Access Specialist works alongside participants and community partners to reduce barriers to housing and strengthen economic stability and well‑being. Services provided to survivors of domestic violence are delivered using survivor‑centered practices that prioritize safety, confidentiality, and participant choice in accordance with domestic violence confidentiality standards and Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) requirements. EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE Associate degree in Social Work, Human Services, or related field; or equivalent relevant experience. Experience working with individuals or families experiencing homelessness, housing instability, or crisis situations preferred. Experience working with survivors of domestic violence and trauma‑informed practices is strongly preferred.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Housing Access, Assessment & Coordinated Entry Services Serve as a primary access point for individuals and families seeking housing assistance through CAPSC’s Coordinated Entry programs. Conduct intake conversations, eligibility determination, and housing needs assessments to identify appropriate housing pathways and referrals. Facilitate housing problem‑solving and diversion conversations to prevent or reduce homelessness when appropriate. Provide trauma‑informed, participant‑centered engagement that promotes dignity, choice, and equitable access to housing resources. Deliver survivor‑centered services when working with individuals experiencing domestic violence, including safety planning and confidentiality protections. Connect participants to housing programs, supportive services, and community resources aligned with individual needs and goals. Maintain consistent communication with participants from referral through successful connection to services or discharge. Utilize HMIS and/or DV‑compliant comparable databases while always safeguarding participant information. Community Collaboration & System Coordination Maintain collaborative relationships with shelters, housing providers, domestic violence agencies, town welfare offices, behavioral health providers, and other community partners. Participate in Coordinated Entry meetings, case conferencing, and community coordination efforts to improve housing access and outcomes. Collaborate with community partners to support a coordinated and equitable response to homelessness. Documentation, Data & Program Accountability Maintain accurate, timely, and complete participant records in accordance with agency, funder, and regulatory requirements. Enter and manage participant data within required systems to support program reporting, monitoring, and evaluation. Ensure documentation meets quality standards and supports program outcomes and continuous improvement. Professional Development & Continuous Improvement Participate in supervision, team meetings, and required trainings. Maintain knowledge of Coordinated Entry policies, housing resources, and best practices. Contribute to identifying service gaps and improving participant access to housing resources and community supports.

GENERAL EXPECTATIONS

Model CAPSC’s mission, values, and commitment to equitable service delivery. Maintain confidentiality of participant and agency information. Communicate respectfully and effectively with participants, staff, and community partners. Support collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement. Demonstrate cultural humility and commitment to reducing barriers for participants.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Commitment to participant‑centered, trauma‑informed service delivery. Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and professional boundaries. Strong organizational, communication, and time‑management skills. Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment. Proficiency with Microsoft Office and web‑based data systems. Ability to build respectful and effective relationships with diverse populations and community partners.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Combination of office‑based, remote, and community‑based work. Local travel may be required. Ability to sit, stand, and use a computer for extended periods. May engage with participants experiencing crisis situations.

EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS

Valid driver’s license and insured vehicle (100/300 minimum coverage) or acceptable transportation alternative. Criminal background and driving record checks required. #J-18808-Ljbffr Community Action Partnership of Strafford County