Case Manager - Shelter/Housing Navigation

FRIENDInc is seeking a Case Manager – Shelter/Housing Navigation to support young adults, particularly those aging out of foster care, as they transition into independent living. This role focuses on preventing "the cliff"—the sudden loss of support that often leads to homelessness for foster youth. You will be responsible for identifying immediate safe housing and navigating the specific systems designed to help young adults achieve long-term stability.

The Case Manager will work directly with youth in shelters and community settings to assess their readiness for independence, help them overcome barriers to housing, and provide the hands-on navigation required to secure a first home of their own.

Key Responsibilities

Youth-Centered Housing Search & Coordination

Facilitate placement into youth-specific emergency shelters, transitional living programs (TLPs), or host homes.

Actively scout for "youth-friendly" landlords and property managers willing to work with first-time renters and those with limited credit.

Assist participants with the "Adulting" side of housing: completing applications, understanding lease terms, and setting up utilities.

Identify and utilize youth-specific housing vouchers, such as FYI (Foster Youth to Independence) or FUP (Family Unification Program) vouchers.

Case Management & Transitional Navigation

Conduct screenings that focus on the specific needs of transition-age youth (education, life skills, and emotional support).

Develop individualized Transition to Adulthood Plans that prioritize immediate housing while planning for future independence.

Provide "systems navigation" for various subsidies and move-in grants specifically available to former foster youth.

Coordinate with ILP (Independent Living Program) coordinators and social workers to ensure a seamless handoff of services.

Maintain consistent follow-up to ensure the young adult is successfully maintaining their new home.

Documentation & Data

Complete accurate case notes and data entry in HMIS or internal youth-tracking systems.

Track housing move-in dates and milestones related to the transition out of care.

Ensure all documentation meets the requirements for youth-specific state and federal funding.

Collaboration & Advocacy

Work with the FRIENDInc team to connect youth with workforce development, mental health support, and education resources.

Advocate for youth who may face discrimination in the housing market due to their age or lack of rental history.

Build a network of community partners who specialize in youth development and foster care advocacy.

Qualifications

Currently enrolled in a college or university and actively pursuing a degree in Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, or a related field (required).

Strong interest in youth development and the specific issues facing the foster care community.

Ability to build trust and rapport with young adults who may have experienced trauma or system-mistrust.

High level of professionalism and patience while teaching youth how to navigate adult systems.

Reliable transportation to take youth to apartment viewings or meet them at community resource sites (preferred).

Core Competencies

Positive Youth Development (PYD): An approach that focuses on a young person’s strengths and potential rather than just their risks.

Trauma-Informed Care: Recognizing how childhood trauma affects a young adult’s ability to navigate housing and authority figures.

Life Skills Coaching: Ability to mentor youth on basic budgeting, tenant rights, and home maintenance.

Equity-Centered Engagement: Understanding the disproportionate impact of homelessness on youth of color and LGBTQ+ youth.

Why This Role Matters

Aging out of the foster care system should not mean aging into homelessness. As a Housing Navigator, you serve as the safety net that ensures these young adults have a place to call home as they start their lives. You are not just finding them an apartment; you are providing the foundation they need to pursue their dreams, finish their education, and build a stable future.