Position Summary:

The Youth Housing Case Manager provides direct case management and housing navigation services to youth ages 18–24 residing in reStart Inc.’s emergency shelter. The role focuses on guiding youth through the stabilization process by identifying short- and long-term housing solutions, addressing barriers to independence, and supporting goal development. This position is key to helping young adults transition to safe, stable housing through structured planning, community linkage, and individualized support that honors their autonomy and lived experiences.

Key Responsibilities:

Case Management & Individual Support

• Conduct comprehensive youth intakes and housing assessments (e.g., VI-SPDAT) at shelter entry.
• Develop and maintain individualized service and housing plans in collaboration with each youth.
• Meet regularly with youth to assess progress, revise goals, and provide strengths-based coaching.
• Deliver crisis intervention, conflict de-escalation, and general emotional support as needed.

Housing Navigation & Transition Planning

• Assist youth in exploring housing options including transitional, rapid rehousing, or permanent supportive housing, and family reunification where appropriate.
• Support the completion of housing applications and the acquisition of required documentation (e.g., identification, birth certificates).
• Coordinate with housing providers, landlords, and Continuum of Care (CoC) partners to secure placements.
• Provide support with moving logistics and ensure continuity of care through aftercare planning.

Resource Coordination & Life Skills Development

• Connect youth with internal and external services, including mental health care, education programs, job readiness, and substance use treatment.
• Coordinate or lead life skills workshops (e.g., budgeting, tenant rights, employment prep, and daily living skills).
• Advocate for youth within broader systems such as healthcare, legal aid, and public benefits access.

Documentation, Collaboration & Compliance

• Maintain timely and accurate documentation in case files and data management systems (e.g., HMIS).
• Participate in team meetings, multidisciplinary case conferences, and staff huddles.
• Coordinate care with shelter staff to ensure a consistent and safe environment for all youth.
• Prepare reports and program data as required for grants and performance tracking.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, or related field required.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience providing case management or direct service to youth or vulnerable populations.
• Understanding of trauma-informed practices, housing systems, youth development principles, and harm reduction approaches.
• Strong skills in crisis response, planning, and interpersonal communication.
• Ability to manage a caseload, work independently, and collaborate across internal and external systems.
• Proficiency with documentation standards; familiarity with HMIS or similar databases preferred.
• Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and ability to pass all background checks.

Preferred Skills:

• Bilingual in Spanish or other languages frequently spoken by the youth population.
• Familiarity with public benefits systems, legal documentation processes, or housing program navigation.
• Trained in Motivational Interviewing or other goal-focused intervention models.

Core Competencies:

• Client Service Orientation: Demonstrates empathy and responsiveness while upholding boundaries and structure.
• Problem Solving: Applies judgment and resourcefulness to resolve housing and social barriers.
• Adaptability: Adjusts approach based on youth needs, environmental factors, and systemic changes.
• Communication: Clearly conveys information and collaborates effectively with youth, colleagues, and partners.
• Time Management: Efficiently prioritizes caseload duties and meets program deadlines.
• Professional Integrity: Maintains confidentiality, accountability, and ethical standards.

reStart Inc. Core Values & Attributes:

All team members at reStart Inc. are expected to model the following values and attributes in their work:

• Mission Commitment: Supports reStart’s mission to end homelessness through compassionate, person-centered service.
• Solution-Focused Mindset: Approaches challenges with creativity and determination.
• Collaboration: Actively partners across departments and with external agencies to support whole-person care.
• Flexibility: Responds constructively to evolving priorities and participant needs.
• Integrity: Demonstrates reliability, accountability, and professionalism.
• Compassion: Engages participants and peers with respect, kindness, and a commitment to dignity.