Program/Housing Coordinator

Volunteers of America-Greater New York (VOA-Greater New York) is an anti-poverty organization working to end homelessness in the New York area by 2050. We operate over 60 programs across New York City, Northern New Jersey and Westchester County including emergency, transitional and permanent housing. Our services extend to families experiencing homelessness, survivors of domestic violence, people living with HIV/AIDS, veterans, youth aging out of foster care, adults with behavioral health or substance use needs, and others in need, including a special education preschool program.
  

We are in search of new talent in the following position…

Position:  Program Coordinator

The Program Coordinator is responsible for all tasks that assist participants with pre-tenancy, tenancy, and move in support services for the Housing Supports Program. The primary goal for the Housing Supports program is to provide access to housing support services that will help homeless participants find homes and remain in their homes, thereby improving health outcomes. Tasks include providing essential services necessary to ensure that individuals can successfully apply for housing, search for housing, and maintain their housing. The Program Coordinator maintains a wellness and recovery-oriented environment by using person-first language, and person-centered and rehabilitation planning to participants referred by the MCO's and the community.

Location: Rahway, NJ 07065

Minimum Qualifications:

• The position requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in one of the helping professions, such as social work, human services, counseling, psychiatric rehabilitation, psychology, or criminal justice.
• In lieu of a bachelor's degree in a helping profession, 2 years' experience working with the homeless population is required.
• Excellent engagement skills with knowledge and practice of motivational interviewing are essential for this position.
• Possess excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to develop relationships with community partners including the MCO's and landlords is required.
• This position will also have a valid state driver's license with a safe driving record that meets agency procedures.
• Experience working with developing landlord relationships is preferred.

Program Coordinator Principal Responsibilities:

1. Collaborates with DCA and NJ Family Care to implement program expectations. Documents all contacts in New Jersey's Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) or a HMIS-comparable system consistent with additional guidance from DMAHS.
2. Conduct an initial assessment to assess participant's eligibility for Housing Supports and request service authorization from the MCO.
3. Develop an individualized housing support plan with participants by engaging with participants using the Housing First model as well as other evidence-based practices such as Motivational Interviewing.
4. Identifies, coordinates, and secures resources to assist with housing costs and other expenses.
5. Educates and trains the participant on the role, rights and responsibilities of the tenant and landlord. Assist with the housing recertification processes, including lease renewals and housing subsidy renewals
6. Assists with navigating the complexities of the housing application process as well as assisting with the housing search. Communicate effectively with MCO care management, Housing Specialist, and utilization management staff to provide authorization requests and updates on changing participant needs.
7. Supports the participant in development of independent living and tenancy skills, including housekeeping; cleanliness; time management; financial literacy skills; budgeting; fraud prevention; establishing a