Housing Advocate

Housing Advocate Arbor Youth Services

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6 Lexington, KY Job Details Full-time $41,600 a year 1 day ago Benefits Health insurance Dental insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Qualifications Safety assessments for crisis intervention support CPR Certification At-risk youth mentorship Filing Working with individuals experiencing homelessness Driver's License Cultural competency Bachelor's degree Working with families Human Services Social Work Working with individuals from underserved communities Working with families with children Full Job Description Housing Advocate Agency Description Arbor Youth Services is a nonprofit organization providing emergency shelter, supportive services, and safe alternatives for homeless, runaway, and at-risk children and youth. Our programs promote safety, stability, youth development, and the development of independent living skills for youth experiencing crisis or housing instability. Position Summary Under the direction of the Shelter & Outreach Coordinator, the Housing Advocate provides individualized case management, housing navigation, and supportive services to youth experiencing homelessness or housing instability. This position helps youth establish and reach individualized goals, secure stable housing, and access the resources needed to achieve long-term stability and independence. Essential Duties & Responsibilities Youth Support & Case Management

• Act as a mentor and positive role model for youth, demonstrating patience, empathy, and effective communication.
• Provide person-centered case management to support youth in obtaining permanent housing, employment, education, and life-skills goals.
• Assist youth and families with identifying strengths, needs, and barriers; support development of individualized goal plans.
• Track, monitor, and document client progress; support youth in meeting agreed-upon action steps. Housing Navigation & Outreach
• Assist with housing searches, landlord engagement, applications, leases, and ongoing tenancy support.
• Build and maintain positive working relationships with landlords, property managers, employers, schools, and partner agencies.
• Assist with street outreach efforts, engaging youth experiencing homelessness and connecting them with services.
• Provide transportation assistance when appropriate and permissible under agency policy. Compliance, Data, & Documentation
• Maintain accurate, timely documentation in client files and electronic records, including HMIS data entry and required data quality standards.
• Participate in required case reviews with the Shelter & Outreach Coordinator to ensure quality service delivery.
• Maintain working knowledge of Arbor Youth Services policies, state licensing standards, and other regulatory requirements. Program Support & Collaboration
• Facilitate or assist with life-skills and transitional living groups for youth.
• Serve as a liaison between Arbor Youth Services and external partners—including social service agencies, landlords, schools, employers, parents/guardians, and volunteers.
• Attend required staff meetings, supervision, and professional development trainings; maintain current First Aid/CPR certifications. Minimum Qualifications
• Must be 21 yrs or older for this position.
• Demonstrated leadership qualities and ability to serve as a positive role model for youth.
• Ability to assess risks and work effectively with youth and families in crisis or high-stress situations.
• Knowledge of issues impacting homeless, runaway, abused/neglected, or at-risk youth.
• Ability to establish trusting, professional relationships with youth, families, landlords, and partner agencies.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Cultural and linguistic competence and ability to work respectfully with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Education & Experience
• Bachelor's degree in human services, social work, psychology, or a related field preferred; OR a combination of relevant work experience and education.
• Minimum of two years of experience working with youth or families in a social services or housing-related setting.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation required.

Work Conditions & Schedule Full-time schedule with flexibility to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and varying shifts to ensure 24-hour shelter coverage. Availability on weekends is required. Work is performed in a residential environment requiring movement throughout the facility, active engagement with youth, and occasional lifting of supplies. The position may also require work in community settings as part of outreach or housing support services. Equal Opportunity Employer Arbor Youth Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected class.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$41,600.00 per year

Benefits:

Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person