Housing and Entitlements Specialist - CRS028 - Tues - Sat 10AM-6PM

About WellLife Network: WellLife Network is a leading health and human services organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families across New York City and Long Island. Recognized as a 2023 top-rated nonprofit, WellLife Network empowers people to overcome life’s challenges and achieve greater independence, well-being, and inclusion. We offer a comprehensive suite of programs spanning mental health, developmental disabilities, substance abuse, housing, and employment support, all grounded in a commitment to compassionate, high-quality care. Central to our mission is an unwavering dedication to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) within our organization and in the communities we serve. As a trusted community partner, WellLife Network fosters a nurturing environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and realize their fullest potential.

Position Summary: The Housing and Entitlements Specialist supports youth, ages 16 – 21, residing in an OMH-licensed Youth Transitional Community Residence in preparing for independent living by assisting with housing navigation and access to public benefits. The role provides direct help with entitlements such as Medicaid, SNAP, and SSI, while guiding youth through locating, applying for, and maintaining safe and affordable housing. Youth are also educated on tenants’ rights, budgeting for rent and utilities, and understanding lease agreements so they can manage housing responsibilities effectively. The Specialist works closely with the agency’s Entitlements and Eligibility Services (EES) team to ensure benefit applications are accurate, complete, and processed in a timely manner. In addition, the Specialist helps residents build practical skills such as managing paperwork, communicating with landlords and agencies, and advocating for their needs. By collaborating with the clinical and residential teams, this position ensures that housing and entitlements are fully integrated into each youth’s service and discharge plan, laying the foundation for long-term stability and independence.

Essential Accountabilities:

1. Assist youth in identifying and applying for safe, stable, and developmentally appropriate housing options (e.g., supportive housing, family reunification, shared housing, independent apartments).
2. Educate and support youth in understanding lease agreements, tenant responsibilities, budgeting for rent and utilities, and maintaining housing.
3. Guide youth through the application process for public entitlements, including but not limited to:

• Medicaid
• SNAP (food stamps)
• SSI/SSDI
• Public Assistance
• State identification and social security replacement
• HEAP (Heating Assistance)

4. Maintain accurate records of applications, approvals, denials, and follow-up steps required for benefits and housing.
5. Collaborate with care managers, discharge planners, legal advocates, and housing agencies to coordinate resources and remove barriers to access.
6. Facilitate individual and group sessions on housing readiness, navigating community systems, and accessing entitlements.
7. Ensure all services provided align with OMH discharge planning requirements and trauma-informed, youth-centered practices.
8. Advocate for the youth’s needs during housing interviews or benefit appointments as appropriate, while supporting self-advocacy skills.
9. Provide crisis support or emergency housing referrals, when necessary, in coordination with the clinical team.
10. Participate in team meetings and contribute to service planning and discharge documentation.
11. Assist with setting personal goals related to independent living and help track progress toward those goals.

    12. Model appropriate behavior and communication skills, reinforcing positive interactions and problem-solving.

13. Support youth in accessing and navigating community resources.
14. Participate in team meetings, service plan reviews, and training as required.
15. Ensure a trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and youth-centered approach in all interactions.
16. Show sensitivity to cultural norms, recognize strengths in various cultural practices related to parenting and discipline, and maintain a non-judgmental approach towards diverse backgrounds.
17. Actively participate in individual supervision to address any concerns and to foster professional growth.
18. Perform additional tasks or responsibilities, as needed, to support program operations, youth development, or agency needs, even if not specifically listed in this job description. Flexibility and adaptability are expected as part of the role.

Qualifications:

• Associate’s degree in human services, or related field preferred. High school diploma with relevant experience considered.
• At least one (1) year of experience working with adolescents or young adults in a residential, educational, or community setting.
• Strong knowledge of independent living and life skills development.
• Ability to engage youth in a respectful, empowering, and age-appropriate manner.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary team.
• Working knowledge of OMH regulations and trauma-informed practices preferred.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel with youth in the community as needed, may utilize personal vehicle.

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITY SPECIFICATIONS

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or hear; The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: Work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is not exposed to weather conditions

BENEFITS AND PERKS: At WellLife Network, we prioritize our employees' growth and well-being with a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, vision, and dental insurance, 401(k) matching, and flexible spending accounts. Enjoy perks like Summer Fridays, gym passes, and life insurance options. Our commitment to career advancement includes tuition assistance, mentorship, leadership training, and more. As a qualifying employer for Public Service Loan Forgiveness, WellLife Network supports your career and financial goals while helping you make a meaningful community impact. Join us to experience a workplace that invests in your success and well-being!