Position:

Housing Specialist Primary Function:

Assist in addressing the housing spectrum needs of older adults (60 years or older). These needs may include, but are not limited to, interventions to maintain housing (e.g. repairs or legal assistance) or referrals to local continuum of care resources. The older adults served may be homeowners, renters or unhoused, with special focus on ensuring that older adults can live safely within the community. The Housing Specialist will coordinate these efforts, focusing on our CCU's direct services and outreach and connection to community partners.

Position Responsibilities:

1. Act as a coordinating point of contact for our organization by engaging CCU and/or I&A staff around issues of housing in our CCU contracted area. 2. Build connections and relationships with partner organizations and groups in our CCU contracted area addressing housing issues, homelessness and more that would impact older adults in the area. 3. Conduct outreach to raise awareness of available services as needed/appropriate. 4. Work with homeowners who are struggling to afford their homes by conducting comprehensive screenings for benefits (e.g., BenefitsCheckUp), enrolling them in benefits, connecting them to other programs or grants (e.g., weatherization programs), and more as appropriate to their need. Research rental and homeowners' assistance programs and assist as needed. 5. Establish and monitor internal case management and referral processes to connect clients with local services, including but not limited to Emergency Senior Service (ESS) funds, additional home repair funds from AgeOptions, legal services from Legal Aid Chicago and Center for Disability and Elder Law as well as any local services in our CCU contracted area. 6. Provide additional case management for complicated issues related to housing. 7. Research housing options, familiarize self with application processes and monitor waitlists. 8. Build upon existing resources and assist in developing a comprehensive guide. 9. Attend and participate in AgeOptions quarterly meetings and share relevant information with agency leadership and staff as well as any relevant partners in our area. 10. Actively participate and collaborate with AgeOptions and staff at other CCUs, which includes but is not limited to sharing best practices, lessons learned and resources. 11. Maintain complete and accurate records and submit quarterly program and financial reports as well as other reports as requested (e.g., final fiscal year reports) to AgeOptions. Report on clients, units and other relevant activities. 12. Perform any other duties as assigned by the Director of Social Services.

Qualifications:

B.A. or B.S. degree in human services or a related field. Excellent communication and active listening skills. Basic understanding and sensitivity to the needs of the older adult population. Availability of a vehicle. Bilingual, Spanish-speaking preferred.

Pay:

$46,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) Health insurance Mileage reimbursement Paid time off

Work Location:

In person