Region 4 Reentry Housing Navigator

This is a Request for Proposal (RFP).

The RFP can be found at https://mwwc.org/rfp-rfq

with instructions/qualifications and timeline when the RFP will be due.

Job Summary
The Housing Navigator provides housing navigation and support services to Region 4 Reentry participants facing housing-related barriers that impact successful reentry into the community. This position assists individuals in obtaining, maintaining, and transitioning into safe, stable, and affordable housing, with a primary focus on serving male participants. The Housing Navigator conducts housing inspections, supports participant well-being, develops housing opportunities through landlord engagement, and collaborates with community partners to address participants' broader service needs. The position operates primarily within Kent and Muskegon Counties and works under the direction of the Region 4 Offender Success Community Coordinator and Program Manager to ensure compliance with program goals and contractual requirements.

Responsibilities

• Provide housing navigation services to participants experiencing barriers to securing or maintaining housing.
• Assist participants with identifying, obtaining, and sustaining safe, stable, and affordable housing options.
• Conduct required property inspections in Kent County and perform regular housing checks in Kent and Muskegon Counties.
• Complete monthly inspections of occupied properties, quarterly inspections of vacant properties, and biweekly inspections when required.
• Coordinate biweekly inspections with Parole Agents and/or CLEAR Officers whenever possible.
• Monitor housing conditions, participant well-being, and compliance with program housing standards.
• Facilitate pro-social activities within program-supported housing environments to encourage positive community engagement and healthy living practices.
• Provide mentorship, support, and guidance to participants residing in program-supported housing.
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with landlords to increase housing opportunities and available housing stock throughout the Region 4 service area.
• Build and sustain partnerships with community-based organizations, service providers, and other stakeholders to address participants' supportive service needs.
• Connect participants to community resources and services that support successful reentry and housing stability.
• Maintain accurate documentation, inspection records, participant interactions, and housing-related activities in accordance with program and contractual requirements.
• Support housing service gaps across Region 4 as identified by program leadership.
• Follow the direction of the Region 4 Offender Success Community Coordinator and Program Manager to ensure services are delivered effectively and in alignment with program objectives.
• Promote participant engagement, trust, and successful reentry outcomes through a participant-centered and strengths-based approach.

Requirements

• Associate degree or higher in Social Work, Human Services, Criminal Justice, Housing Management, or a related field preferred; equivalent education, training, and/or relevant experience may be considered.
• Demonstrated experience providing services to justice-involved individuals, including moderate- to high-risk offenders and participants involved in the criminal justice system.
• Experience working with formerly incarcerated individuals and a strong understanding of the barriers and challenges associated with successful community reentry.
• Experience serving justice-involved individuals, individuals experiencing homelessness, or other vulnerable populations strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of housing systems, housing placement practices, landlord engagement strategies, and local housing resources.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain relationships with landlords, property managers, housing providers, and community partners.
• Experience assisting clients in accessing and navigating local, state, and federally funded public assistance and public benefit programs.
• Knowledge of eligibility requirements and resources available through public assistance programs that support self-sufficiency, housing stability, and successful reentry.
• Ability to effectively connect participants to supportive services and community resources that address housing, employment, financial, and other reentry-related needs.
• Strong communication, case coordination, documentation, and relationship-building skills.
• Lived experience with the criminal justice system and/or direct reentry experience is highly valued and will be viewed favorably, as it can enhance participant engagement, trust, and overall program effectiveness.

Job Types: Full-time, Contract

Pay: $85,000.00 per year

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location: In person