Description

WHO WE ARE:

Volunteers of America Colorado is a nonprofit, faith-based organization dedicated to helping those in-need transform their lives. Through more than 50 distinct human service programs, Volunteers of America changes the lives of more than 140,000 vulnerable Coloradoans each year. VOA services include housing and emergency shelters, hunger and nutrition services, and many other community support programs. Our work touches the mind, body, heart and ultimately the spirit of those we serve. VOA integrates compassion with highly effective programs that build and strengthen communities.

WHAT MAKES VOA SPECIAL?

Volunteers of America Colorado believes unique challenges require unique and thoughtful solutions. VOA creates specialized programs to meet the critical needs of the communities we serve—our programs across Colorado look different because each community is distinct. We engage faith, relationship-building, and volunteers wherever we go to lift up and support Colorado’s most vulnerable citizens.

** The Housing Specialist will coordinate and oversee the implementation of the VOCA Housing for Crime Victims Special Project and DVP TANF Flex Funds project, as well as provide mobile advocacy to crime victims as they transition to and/or maintain independent housing. Program participants will be adults who are homeless due to domestic and/or family violence, sexual assault, or stalking, who may or may not have mental health or chemical dependency issues, and are low-income. The purpose of the Housing for Crime Victims Special Project will be to create or enhance a housing program for eligible program participants that will first focus on helping survivors increase access to and retain safe,



long-term housing and then provide tailored supportive services

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

- Serves as the primary contact for housing assistance for both crime victims and community partners.
- Responsible for understanding and implementing the Housing for Crime Victims Special Project and DVP TANF Flex Funds projects according to VOCA, DVP and VOA standards and expectations; maintains a clear understanding of the Project Grant Agreements.
- Determines the housing needs and available resources for persons seeking aid and works with them to determine what is available to them.
- Provides trauma-informed care.
- Refers crime victims in need of short-term rental assistance and additional housing case management to Housing Solutions for the Southwest and, when appropriate, provides collaborative case management.
- Coordinates VOCA funding available to assist crime victims on a variety of needs to promote long-term housing stability.
- Provides community-based mobile supportive services to crime victims. Examples of supportive services include emergency shelter assistance, utility and moving expense assistance, etc.
- Coordinates process of lease-up, landlord negotiations, and contracts, along with partner agencies such as Housing Solutions for the Southwest.
- Generates resources in the area of housing,



including researching available affordable and supportive housing options; developing relationships with landlords, brokers and housing programs.
- Triages and assesses all information and referral inquiries to assure effective advocacy and financial support.
- Engages landlords and develops partnerships with housing and community providers to increase housing opportunities for crime victims.
- Responsible for intake interviews of new program participants, completing necessary documentation, and determining if client is appropriate for the program.
- Attends staff meetings weekly, in-service training as required and meets periodically with the Program Manager for input and exchange of information.
- Responsible for providing supervision and training of new employees and volunteers as assigned. Collaborates and trains other advocates on housing program and mobile advocacy, as needed.
- Gives educational presentations to community groups and attends professional meetings when requested. In particular, represents the organization at community meetings regarding housing issues for homeless populations and assists with educating the community on changing policy as it relates to crime victim access to affordable housing.
- Maintains case notes, completes financial assistance documentation and billing, and other paperwork as required.
- Performs all work in a culturally appropriate manner consistent with Volunteers of America's mission and philosophy.
- Performs job responsibilities in accordance with the Social Work Code of Ethics.
- Ensures guest voice is incorporated into programmatic evaluation and improvement.

📌 Housing Specialist (Durango)
🏢 Volunteers Of America Colorado
📍 Durango