Housing Counselor

Department: Operations

This frontline position is responsible for the provision and monitoring of the overall delivery of services to the clients of the Housing Counseling program in a manner that promotes dignity, independence, self-determination, privacy, and choice of each client while upholding these standards and promoting the philosophy, policies, and protocols. This position also performs various services as directed by the clients Housing Assessment. This position may provide services to the extent they have been trained and deemed competent by the Director. Finally, this position will be responsible for coordinating and administering policies and procedures appropriate to the Housing program in accordance with current federal, state, and local standards, guidelines, and regulations that govern the program as well as duties that may be directed by the Director.

• Evaluate, organize, implement, and support the activities of the assigned Housing Program.

• Maintain, adhere, and communicate company written policies and procedures with management support.

• Ensure all aspects of the program comply with expectations of the funding source to include expectations identified in contracts.

• Represent the program in dealings with outside agencies, including governmental agencies and third-party payers.

• Guide and participate in Housing Program marketing activities, to meet hourly goals of programs sent by Directors.

• Develop and maintain an effective communication relationship with Clients including interdisciplinary teams and family members as appropriate.

• Develop and maintain good public relations that serve the best interest of the Housing Program and the community alike.

• Caregiver Misconduct: Be knowledgeable of prevention of Client abuse, neglect, and misappropriation of property and self-abuse. Know how to respond to as per Vistacare policy and procedures and mandatory reporting laws.

• Performance Improvement: Actively participate in all activities regarding quality and performance improvement. Identify and implement performance improvement activities.

• Oversee the admission process of the Client, Client’s interdisciplinary team, family members, and medical professionals resulting in smooth transition into the Housing Program. Assures the development of Housing Plan and other required documentation.

• When applicable, handle client funds to complete the processing of applications for possible housing options.

• Oversee and coordinate the process of searching and acquiring new housing accommodations for a client. This includes completing applications, scheduling, and completing showings, applying for support services, completing required steps in closing on accepted housing lease, and coordinating the moving in process.

• Oversee and coordinate the discharge process of Client, to ensure a smooth transition, including discharge planning, preparation of required documentation to be given to new provider, and closing of Client record.

• Follow Professional Boundary expectations and encourage the same of the clients. Such boundaries include but are not limited to giving or receiving gifts, personal monetary payment, or lending of personal belongings to or from a client and providing additional support to clients outside the scope of service.

• Completes monthly billing and other reports as requested.

• Required to attend mandatory staff meetings and training, including all essential learning training etc.
• Ensures records and documentation are in compliance.
• Demonstrates commitment to the rights and responsibilities of the people supported.
• Maintains strict confidentiality regarding agency information, including any information regarding the people supported.
• Remains knowledgeable on available programs and support for individuals.
• Any additional tasks as directed by management.

• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Must successfully complete all certification and training requirements within the assigned state(s) of operation within 90 days of hire.
• Valid driver’s license and clear driving record in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations and Vista Care’s best practices
• Personal vehicle and personal liability insurance must always remain current and within policy limits as determined by Vista Care. Documentation of routine maintenance of a personal vehicle must be maintained and presented to Vista Care upon request
• Experience in human services, customer service, or a related field required
• Prior experience in services and supports for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities preferred.
• Clear background check in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations and Vista Care’s best practices
• Consistently demonstrate effective decision-making abilities, strong communication skills, and computer literacy.
• Fluency in oral and written English. Bilingual proficiency a plus
• Demonstrates ability to comply with company policies, procedures, and upholds the Mission, Vision, and Values of the organization.
• Demonstrates ability to actively contribute to a harmonious working environment, and maintains good working relationships with co-workers, management, individuals, outside agencies, and others with whom they may engage with.

• High School Diploma or GED Required

• A college, or university degree or the equivalent required. Human, social ,or similar fields preferred.

• Requires repetitive manual and finger dexterity and eye- hand coordination; requires the ability to use all office equipment
• Ability to lift/carry up to 50 pounds using appropriate body mechanics.
• Must be able to remain awake and alert for the duration of each shift, bend, stoop, push, pull, reach, twist, sit, and walk for periods of time.
• Must be able to utilize proper body mechanics while assisting with the transfer of individuals weighing up to 250 pounds utilizing manual or mechanical lifting devices.

• Requires corrected vision and hearing to normal range, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Must be able to communicate verbally and in writing with all staff, other professionals, and individuals.
• Must be able to give and receive verbal and written instructions in English.

• Primarily office settings with some of the time spent in home-like settings with varying degrees of background noise.
• The possibility of exposure to blood borne pathogens exists if universal precautions are not followed.
• May require working under stressful conditions at times and handling emergencies.
• There will be pressure at times to meet scheduled appointments and deadlines and manage crisis situations.
• This position will interact with individuals who are intellectually and developmentally disabled and may be frail or confused and have the potential for verbal or physical aggression.