Iowa BoS CoC - Youth Homeless Demonstration Project Housing Specialist

Job Title: Youth Homeless Demonstration Program Housing Specialist

Reports to: CoC Director

Status: Full-time, Contract

Location: Remote

POSITION SUMMARY

The Iowa Balance of State Continuum of Care (IA BoS CoC) was organized to provide leadership to homeless service providers in all counties of Iowa with the exception of Polk, Pottawattamie, and Woodbury. The Youth Homeless Demonstration Program Housing Specialist will play a pivotal role in developing and sustaining relationships with community partners and organizations to support youth- focused housing initiatives. This position will work closely with the Youth Homeless Demonstration Program Specialist and other CoC staff in the creation of the Coordinated Community Plan by April 2025, specifically around the housing projects that will be funded with this special award. The ideal candidate is passionate about youth advocacy, possesses excellent communication skills, and has a demonstrated ability to engage in diverse communities. This role is a full-time, contract position with the possibility of extending to a permanent position.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Collaborate with partners to develop and promote housing solutions tailored to the needs of youth.

• Develop educational materials and conduct presentations to raise awareness about youth housing issues.

• Inventory current programs and resources within the IA BoS CoC to understand the scope and availability of what exists for youth experiencing homelessness.

• Participate in the scoring criteria and request for proposals for YHDP funded projects. Provide ongoing assessment and evaluation of projects for adherence to the approved CCP.

• Develop and implement strategies to engage local communities in youth-focused housing initiatives.

• Host and facilitate community meetings, workshops, and focus groups to gather input and foster collaboration.

• Serve as a liaison between the organization and community members, ensuring open lines of communication.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with local government agencies, non-profit organizations, schools, and other stakeholders.

• Assist in the design and implementation of programs aimed at providing housing and related services to young people.

• Coordinate events and initiatives that promote awareness and support for youth housing solutions.

• Advocate for policies and practices that support affordable and accessible housing for young individuals.

• Collaborate with HMIS Lead to collect and analyze data on community needs, program outcomes, and engagement efforts.

• Prepare reports and presentations for partners and funders, highlighting the impact of community engagement initiatives.

• Supporting the local/regional Youth Action Board (YAB) and the CoC-level YAB

• Supporting the development of the youth homelessness response system in the IA BoS CoC.

• Other duties as assigned

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

This position will require coordination with a variety of community partners; so the ability to multi-task and develop quality relationships with people is of utmost importance. Strong successful candidates will have experience working with young people and/or on issues related to homelessness. Understanding or willing to learn about authentic youth-adult partnership and race equity is strongly preferred.

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university or combined equivalent of education and experience (public policy, sociology, program evaluation, social sciences, communications or similar). We value practical and/or lived experience and recognize that it can often provide the skills and knowledge needed for this role. Therefore, equivalent professional and/or life experience(s) is always considered in lieu of formal education.

• Experience with HUD administered grant programs preferred

• Experience working with young people aged 16-24 preferred

• Knowledge and understanding of homelessness and/or other human service programs

• Ability to work independently

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, project management, and decision-making skills

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including group facilitation skills, the ability to communicate verbally and in writing with diverse constituencies

• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc)

• Attention to detail and ability to prioritize tasks and assignments

• Team player and collaborator with a positive attitude

Other Requirements

• A valid driver’s license and proof of current automobile insurance

Travel/Work Schedule

• Occasional local, inter-office, regional, and national travel for community outreach/involvement and planning meetings, industry networking, etc. (generally less than one week for each occurrence)

• Schedule may fluctuate based on workload

Expense Reimbursement

• Direct and necessary expense related to required job-related activities are eligible for reimbursement. The incumbent is responsible for the timely request and submission of complete and accurate reimbursement documentation and form(s). Refer to the Personnel Policies & Procedures for full guidelines.

Pay and Benefits

• $55,000 to $60,000 salary per year

• Benefits include:

  • 401(k)

  • Dental insurance

  • Employee assistance program

  • Flexible schedule

  • Flexible spending account

  • Health Insurance

  • Life insurance

  • Paid time off

  • Parental leave

  • Vision insurance

Interested candidates should submit their resume, a cover letter detailing their relevant experience and why they are passionate about working with youth and young adults experiencing homelessness and contact information for three references. Applications should be submitted through the ICA Job Board at https://icalliances.org/all-openings and this posting is open until filled. Questions can be submitted to courtney.guntly@icalliances.org.