Housing Tenancy Specialist
Description
Community Options, Inc. is a national non-profit agency providing services to individuals with disabilities in 12 states.
We are Now Hiring Full-Time Housing Tenancy Specialist in Paxinos, PA. The Housing Tenancy and Financial Advocacy Specialist supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in achieving stable, independent living through housing navigation, tenancy support, and financial empowerment. This role combines elements of housing transition services and benefits counseling to ensure individuals understand and maximize their financial resources while maintaining safe and affordable housing.
Starting pay is $21.00-$23.00/per hour
Responsibilities
- Assist individuals in identifying and securing appropriate housing options aligned with their preferences and needs
- Support individuals in understanding lease agreements, housing rights, and responsibilities
- Provide tenancy sustaining services including education on being a good tenant, lease compliance, and eviction prevention strategies
- Collaborate with housing authorities, landlords, and community organizations to facilitate access to housing subsidies and supports
- Utilize tools such as PAHousingSearch.com and participate in the Local Referral Network (LRN) to identify housing opportunities
- Provide individualized guidance on how employment or life changes may impact benefits such as SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, Medicare, SNAP, and housing subsidies
- Assist individuals in understanding and utilizing work incentives and financial planning tools
- Support the development of Work Incentives Plans in collaboration with WIPA programs when applicable
- Educate individuals on budgeting, credit, and financial literacy using resources like ‘Cents and Sensibility’ and FDIC’s Money Smart curriculum
- Work closely with supports coordinators, families, and service teams to align housing and financial goals with Individual Support Plans (ISPs)
- Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings and contribute to housing and financial planning discussions
- Maintain documentation and comply with ODP standards and waiver requirements
- Additional tasks and responsibilities may be assigned
- Employee must cooperate with the license and department staff in any inspection, inquiry, or investigation
- Employment is contingent upon successful completion of checks of criminal background, central registry, child abuse registry, and drug testing
Minimum Requirements
- Minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent; post-secondary education in human services,
social work, or related field preferred - Completion of ODP-required orientation and training
- Knowledge of housing systems, fair housing laws, and financial assistance programs
- Familiarity with benefits programs and work incentives for individuals with disabilities
- Ability to communicate effectively and advocate for individuals in diverse settings
- Must be at least 18 years of age and pass required background checks
- Experience with the Prepared Renters Program (PREP) or similar housing education initiatives
- Understanding of the Olmstead decision and HCBS Final Rule
- Ability to navigate and refer to WIPA programs and other benefits counseling resources
- Strong organizational and interpersonal skills
Why Community Options?
- Competitive Insurance Options (Medical, Dental, Vision)
- Paid Holidays—Including a Birthday Holiday!
- Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Employee Incentive & Discount Programs
- 403b Retirement Plan
- Exceptional Career Growth Opportunities
- Great coworkers/team that support you!
- University partnerships that include tuition reduction
Please Visit Our Website to Complete an Online Application! Careers.comop.org
Community Options is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V
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