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About Urban Pathways

Since 1975, Urban Pathways has engaged New York City’s most vulnerable residents, people on the streets or in areas unfit for human habitation, “lighting the path home, one person at a time.” Urban Pathways is a catalyst for transformative change in the lives of unhoused adults, empowering them to discover their inherent strengths and abilities. We provide essential support and foster an environment where individuals can redefine their narratives and become their best selves.

Responsibilities

Reporting to the Director of Social Services/Social Services Supervisor, the Housing Specialist provides assistance and support to achieve permanent housing placement for all clients.? He/she also provides and documents clinical case management services for assigned clients according to the requirements of Urban Pathways and all regulatory and funding agencies.

Assesses the client's needs and develops and implements service plans for appropriate housing placement and support, including, but not limited to supportive housing, independent housing, family reunification, Federal, State, and City housing subsidies, and referrals.
Advocates on behalf of clients to facilitate client needs.
Conducts regularly scheduled housing meetings with clients and staff to ensure housing packages are updated and to explore housing options.
Ensures the timely preparation and delivery of housing packages for housing providers and coordinates housing interviews.
Prepares clients for the housing interviewing process and assists clients in obtaining required entitlements and identification.
Collaborates with housing providers and DHS/OMH on appropriate housing placements for clients.
Assists clients to ensure a smooth transition from shelter into the community and provides appropriate community resources.
Serves as a liaison with the community to build and enhance the housing network.
Prepares and submits monthly housing reports and all necessary documents and reports as required by Urban Pathways, regulatory and funding agency policies, procedures, and regulations.
Attends staff meetings, training, and supervisory sessions, as required.
Performs all other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

A bachelor’s degree is required. A master’s degree in social work or related field is preferred.
A minimum of two years of clinical individual or group counseling experience is preferred.
Experience with NYC housing subsidies and programs is required.
Experience with the homeless, persons living with a mental health condition, and substance abuse populations is preferred.
Strong computer skills and advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Outlook, Excel, etc.)
Strong written and verbal communication skills. Foreign languages are a plus.