Housing Support Specialist

Reports to: Program Manager

Location: Peoria IL

Hours Part-Time (weekends/evenings may be required) 30 hours or more. Monday- Friday

Compensation: $24 per hour

The PSH Housing Support Specialist plays a dual role in helping clients transition into Permanent Supportive Housing while overseeing the ongoing administration of housing subsidies. This includes providing field-based case management, coordinating housing placements, engaging landlords, linking clients to services, and monitoring housing quality and subsidy compliance. The specialist ensures that clients receive the support needed to achieve long-term housing stability and recovery. This role works collaboratively with NYAP’s Front Door Diversion Program and the Comprehensive Class Member Transition Program to support successful transitions into independent housing.

Key Responsibilities:

• Determine initial and ongoing eligibility for housing subsidies; maintain records.• Support housing search, applications, and advocacy with landlords.

• Conduct or arrange HQS inspections; coordinate re-inspections if needed.

• Ensure all units meet Fair Market Rent (FMR) and rent reasonableness standards.

• Set up lease or occupancy agreements, security/utility deposits, and subsidy payments.

• Maintain receipts and financial records for transitional/housing funds.

• Provide subsistence allowances and utility stipends in accordance with program guide •Provide 60% of services in the field, conducting regular home visits and wellness checks.

• Assist clients with developing housing budgets and transition/move-in plans.

• Support clients in identifying and building on strengths to achieve goals.

• Connect clients to community resources, healthcare, benefits, and vocational services.

• Model and reinforce healthy interpersonal and problem-solving skills.

• Maintain accurate, up-to-date, and organized client files and documentation.• Register clients in PAIRS and other applicable systems.

• Collaborate regularly with service coordinators, community providers, and landlords.

• Support access to SSI/SSDI (SOAR), IPS, and employment services as applicable.

• Ensure timely recertifications, annual inspections, and income updates.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Services or related field• 2+ years experience in housing or mental health support preferred.

• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.

• Comfort working in the community and entering clients’ homes.

• Flexibility for occasional evening/weekend work.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office and data systems (e.g., PAIRS).

• Reliable transportation required.

• Must work from a strengths-based and recovery-oriented perspective

Who We Are:

National Youth Advocate Program has been serving communities and clients since 1978 and we continue to grow each year. Our growth allows us to expand and develop new and innovative programs to meet the ever-changing needs of those we serve. We offer unique and personalized services for families and individuals in four areas: Prevention/Intervention, Positive Youth Development, Out-of-Home-Placement and Reunification/Permanency.

We know you are compassionate and dedicated to serving your clients and communities and NYAP is dedicated to providing support to those who join our team! We look for individuals that are ready to make a direct impact and are excited to be an instrument in supporting the needs of our children, youth and families.

Working At NYAP

• NYAP's commitment to doing what is best for children, youth and their families is a core value and one that we look for in our newest team members.
• Student Loan Repayment assistance, up to $1,200 per year!
• 22 Days Off Each Year! Plus 11 Paid Holidays Per Year!
• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance,
• Competitive salaries and benefits including a 401(k), Summer Hours Off (reduced work schedule), Tuition Assistance, and Work Anniversary Trips!
• Peace leave,
• Mileage reimbursement for some positions.

If this describes YOU, please apply today!

www.nyap.org/employment

Benefits listed are for eligible employees as outlined by our benefit policy.

The person in this position needs to follow a team concept and support both agency goals and co-workers. Employees must be able to effectively work with and be respectful and sensitive to persons from various cultures, socioeconomic, ethnic, religious, and racial backgrounds.