Housing Locator

BASIC FUNCTION:

Access Living seeks full-time employees to serve as Access Living’s Housing Locator for Colbert Consent Decree. Each Housing Locator is responsible for implementing programs that achieve and advocate for consumers to obtain integrated housing options when they have a goal to deinstitutionalize from congregate care facilities.

SPECIFIC DUTIES:

1. To assist consumers in finding and moving into safe and habitable housing in neighborhoods that meet the desired amenities of the consumers
   1. Locate housing, conduct pre-inspections of units for accessibility and consumer’s safety, and complete required documentation for funding requirements
   2. Offer each consumer 3-5 safe and secure units that meet or can meet (with modification) the accessibility requirements
   3. Provide or arrange for transportation for consumers and accompany consumers during viewings of offered units and orient her/him to unit’s neighborhood
   4. Submit an application for housing subsidies
   5. Support the consumer in getting an executed lease
   6. Shop for or with the consumer for household goods for the new unit and first month’s food supply
   7. Transport consumers and their personal belongings on the day of discharge
2. To promote integration and independent living philosophy for people with disabilities
3. To develop working and cordial relationships and conduct regular meetings with IDHS, Contractor agencies, Comprehensive Class Member Transition Program Organizations, and other agencies
4. Work collaboratively with external multi- disciplinary teams of care coordinators, nursing facility staff, home modification staff, fiscal agencies and other organizations on behalf of Colbert class members
5. To learn the housing rights of people with disabilities
6. Develop partnerships with private owners and providers of subsidized, supportive, and affordable housing
7. To provide regular weekly updates and complete reports when necessary
8. To properly complete and maintain clients’ files, including entering data into internal and external online databases in timely fashion
9. To act as spokesperson for Access Living
10. To complete other duties as assigned

EDUCATION AND TRAINING:

REQUIRED: Driver’s license and reliable insured vehicle required. Ability to travel throughout program required areas. Analytical, problem solving, networking, and knowledge of skill-building techniques. Strong written and verbal communication skills.

PREFERRED: BA/BS degree. Experience working with landlords, locating housing, other housing related experience. Experience (personal or professional) working with people with disabilities.

EXPERIENCE: Six months will be the length of time required to develop knowledge of accessible integrated housing providers within Cook County, and the system of housing subsidy program.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Ability to lift up to 50lb.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT: Office area is a shared workspace divided by cubicles. Access Living operates under a hybrid office plan.

SUPERVISED BY: Supervisor of Colbert and Williams Housing Location services

SALARY: $54,000 – $55,000

How to Apply:

Cover letter is required. Email your cover letter and resume to Dariusz Barwacz at dbarwacz@accessliving.org

People with disabilities, members of other oppressed communities, and those with personal experience with disability are highly encouraged to apply.

Access Living is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance – Comprehensive coverage for employees and eligible dependents.
• Retirement Plan – 403(b) retirement plan with employer matching to support long-term financial well-being.
• Paid Time Off – Generous vacation, personal days, sick leave, and paid holidays.
• Flexible Work Arrangements – We work remotely several days a week.
• Life & Disability Insurance – Employer-sponsored coverage for added security.