TITLE: Rapid Re-Housing Support Advocate
STATUS: Full-Time, Non-Exempt
REPORTS TO: Director of Project HEAL
SALARY GRADE: 4
POSITION SUMMARY
The Housing Support Advocate – Rapid Rehousing provides trauma-informed advocacy, housing navigation, and case management services to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and human trafficking participating in Project HEAL's Rapid Rehousing Program. The Advocate supports survivors in securing and maintaining safe, stable housing while promoting self-sufficiency, economic empowerment, and long-term housing stability.
Working from a survivor-centered and strengths-based approach, the Housing Support Advocate assists participants in overcoming barriers to housing, accessing community resources, developing individualized service plans, and achieving personal goals. This position works closely with landlords, housing providers, community agencies, and internal program staff to ensure compliance with HUD and funding requirements while promoting positive outcomes for survivors and their families.
The Housing Support Advocate is committed to advancing the mission of YWCA West Central Michigan: eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Survivor Advocacy and Case Management
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Conduct comprehensive intake, assessment, eligibility determination, and enrollment processes for housing program participants.
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Develop individualized service plans in partnership with participants that identify strengths, goals, housing needs, and barriers to self-sufficiency.
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Provide ongoing trauma-informed advocacy, case management, and supportive services to assist participants in achieving housing stability and personal goals.
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Maintain regular contact with participants through office visits, home visits, community meetings, and virtual communication.
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Provide crisis intervention, safety planning, and emotional support as needed.
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Empower participants to make informed decisions regarding housing, employment, education, financial stability, and community resources.
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Assist participants in developing life skills, budgeting strategies, and long-term housing plans.
Housing Navigation and Stabilization
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Assist participants in locating and securing safe, affordable housing.
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Facilitate applications for housing resources, including MSHDA programs, Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8), Permanent Supportive Housing, and other community housing opportunities.
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Conduct housing inspections and habitability reviews in accordance with HUD and program requirements.
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Evaluate housing units for rent reasonableness and program eligibility.+
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Build and maintain positive relationships with landlords, property managers, and housing providers.
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Mediate landlord-tenant concerns and advocate for participants to promote successful tenancy.
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Monitor housing placements and provide support to prevent housing instability and homelessness.
Program Compliance and Documentation
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Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential participant records in compliance with HUD, funding source, agency, and confidentiality requirements.
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Complete required case notes, assessments, service plans, progress reports, and program documentation within established timelines.
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Track participant outcomes and program performance measures.
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Assist with preparation of reports, audits, monitoring activities, and data collection requirements.
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Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, local, and agency regulations governing housing and victim service programs.
Community Collaboration and Outreach
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Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with community partners, including housing providers, law enforcement agencies, courts, healthcare providers, educational institutions, and human service organizations.
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Coordinate referrals and access to supportive services including employment assistance, workforce development, education, childcare, healthcare, transportation, and financial empowerment resources.
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Represent Project HEAL and YWCA West Central Michigan at community meetings, coalitions, and partner events as assigned.
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Promote awareness of housing and supportive services available to survivors.
Transportation and Participant Support
