Rapid Rehousing Specialist

Program: Youth Homelessness Demonstration Program (YHDP)

Reports To: YHDP Program Manager (or designated supervisor)

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Employment Type: Full-Time Location: Cape Girardeau, MO Salary Range: 36,000-40,000

Position Summary: The Rapid Rehousing (RRH) Specialist works directly with youth and young adults (YYAs) experiencing homelessness to help them obtain and maintain permanent housing. This position plays a key role in implementing the Housing First, Positive Youth Development, and Trauma-Informed Care principles central to the YHDP program. The RRH Specialist provides housing navigation, landlord engagement, housing stabilization support, and individualized case management to ensure participants can successfully transition into and sustain safe, stable housing.

Housing Navigation & Placement: Assist YYAs in identifying, securing, and moving into safe, affordable housing. Conduct comprehensive housing assessments to determine appropriate housing options aligned with YYAs' needs, preferences, and available resources. Support YYAs through the housing search process, including accompanying youth to view units, completing applications, and understanding lease agreements. Coordinate with landlords, property managers, and housing providers to identify youth-friendly housing opportunities.

Landlord Engagement & Mediation: Build and maintain positive relationships with landlords willing to rent to YYAs with housing barriers (credit issues, rental history gaps, etc.).Mediate between landlords and YYAs to resolve tenancy issues and prevent evictions. Educate landlords on YHDP goals, youth support services, and financial assistance available through RRH.Ensure landlord concerns are addressed quickly to preserve long-term housing opportunities for YYAs.

Housing Stabilization Support: Develop Individualized Housing Plans (IHPs) with each participant, focusing on housing retention, life skills, and goal achievement. Conduct regular home visits to assess housing stability, address concerns, and support independent living skills. Connect participants with wraparound services including employment support, education, health care, mental health, and life skills training. Work closely with the other YHDP Staff to ensure housing and service plans are aligned. Provide flexible financial assistance when necessary to cover move-in costs, deposits, or rental assistance.

Data Collection & Compliance: Maintain accurate, timely, and thorough documentation in Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) and internal case management systems. Track participant progress, housing stability metrics, and service delivery data to inform YHDP performance monitoring and reporting. Ensure compliance with YHDP program requirements, HUD regulations, and CoC policies related to Rapid Rehousing.

Collaboration & System Coordination: Participate in Coordinated Entry case conferencing to ensure YYAs are connected to the most appropriate housing options and support services. Work collaboratively with YHDP partners, community agencies, youth-serving organizations, and public systems to ensure comprehensive support. Contribute to continuous quality improvement efforts by identifying service gaps, housing challenges, and potential program enhancements.

Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Human Services, or a related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience).2+ years of experience working with youth and young adults experiencing homelessness, housing instability, or system involvement.

Preferred: Lived experience of homelessness or system involvement (strongly encouraged to apply).Experience with YHDP or youth-specific HUD programs. Familiarity with Coordinated Entry System (CES) processes.

Core Competencies: Strong communication and interpersonal skills to engage with YYAs, landlords, and partners effectively. Problem-solving and critical thinking abilities to address housing barriers creatively. Time management and organizational skills to manage caseload efficiently. Flexibility and adaptability in a rapidly changing environment.

Work Environment & Expectations: Office and community-based work with YYAs and landlords. Occasional evening or weekend hours to respond to housing crises. Must have a valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and the ability to travel within the service area.