Retention Counselor

Overview

At Evergreen and our affiliates, we value collaborative, down-to-earth individuals and encourage self-expression. We recognize that our diverse workforce allows us to provide culturally competent care to everyone in our community.

The Housing Retention Counselor (HRC) provides independent living and retention counseling services to individuals in Erie and Niagara County who receive regular monthly subsidy assistance from the Housing Assistance Program. The position is responsible for assisting patients to move from homelessness into permanent housing. The HRC assists all assigned patients with intakes, assessments, move-in activities, home visits, managing financial assistance funds (security deposits, rent) and providing stabilization services (case management) in conjunction with community partners.

As part of the essential functions of this role, The Housing Retention Counselor (HRC):

• Assesses independent living skills and works with the patient care team to develop and implement service plans that foster maximum patient self-sufficiency
• Provides short-term situational counseling for patients in crisis
• Assists patients to secure services that maximize their tenure in housing; increase their ability to maintain their household and finances, independently perform activities of daily living, uphold the terms of their lease; prevent lease violations; intervene and mitigate crisis situations; maximize tenant safety and security; and prevent avoidable evictions
• Participate in scheduled virtual and in-person meetings
• Provides quality customer service through a Trauma Informed Care (TIC) lens

Qualified candidate: will have exceptional communication skills, excel in customer service and time management, ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment, familiarity with computers and MS Office software (Outlook, Word) preferred, ability to teach and influence others, familiarity with the trauma-informed care model, demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team environment possess a valid NYS driver's license (verified through NYS LENS system) and insured, dependable car to use for client services activities, including transporting clients, when necessary;

an awareness of and sensitivity to the issues and health disparities faced by underserved populations, including but not limited to individuals living with HIV, drug users, people of color, and others who are affected at a disproportionate rate

Job type: Full-time

Education/Experience
:
Bachelor’s degree in health, human or education services and one (1) year of qualifying experience*

or

Education/Experience
:
Associate degree in health, human or education services and two (2) years of qualifying experience*

* “qualifying experience” means verifiable full- or part-time experience in care coordination with the following populations: persons with a chronic illness, and/or persons with a history of mental illness, homelessness, or chemical dependence. Experience with families preferred. Extensive qualifying experience may be considered in lieu of degree.

This position is posted with a salary range. The actual rate of pay offered will be based on a variety of individualized factors, including but not limited to a candidate’s skills, relevant experience, educational background, internal equity, and market considerations.

• Multiple comprehensive medical health insurance plans for you to choose from
• Dental and Vision coverage at no cost to you
• Paid Time Off package that equals 4 weeks of time in your first year