Housing Specialist InternshipAt — Crete Academy

The Housing Internship is a non-compensatory internship opportunity that will assist the Housing Manager in providing essential services to families and individuals experiencing housing instability. This role requires excellent organizational skills, a proactive attitude, and a dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of others. Interns will support clients in navigating housing challenges, community resources, and legal processes while helping to expand Crete Academy’s network of donors and community partners.

Tasks:

Key Responsibilities

_ Administrative Support Client Documentation: _

- Gather and organize necessary client documentation (e.g., IDs, proof of income, benefits paperwork, immigration papers).

- Maintain accurate, secure physical and electronic records for all clients. Data Entry:

- Input client information, housing applications, and case updates into tracking systems or spreadsheets.

Report Preparation:

- Help prepare weekly and monthly reports detailing client progress, program needs, and resource allocations.

Client Assistance Needs Assessment:

- Assist in conducting detailed assessments to understand clients’ housing, financial, and social service needs.

- Contact clients to follow up on action plans, document submissions, or application statuses.

- Schedule and coordinate client appointments for housing applications, benefits enrollment, or legal aid consultations.

Rent and Utility Assistance:

- Research and connect families with programs and donors willing to provide financial aid for rent or utility payments.

- Maintain relationships with community organizations offering rental assistance programs.

- Help manage and maintain Crete Academy’s transitional housing resources, ensuring they meet clients’ immediate needs.

Training:

- Initial Orientation: The intern will receive an introduction to the organization’s mission, policies, housing resources, and case management systems. They will also be trained on confidentiality, ethical considerations, and emergency procedures.
- Shadowing & Hands-On Training: The intern will shadow experienced housing specialists and participate in real case discussions to gain firsthand experience.
- Weekly Supervision & Feedback: Regular weekly meetings with a supervisor to review cases, address challenges, and ensure the intern is meeting learning objectives.
- Ongoing Mentorship: Interns will have access to housing staff for guidance, case consultation, and professional development support.
- Skill Development Workshops: Interns may attend training sessions on trauma-informed care, housing policies, and community resource navigation.
- Case Review & Debriefing: Interns will participate in team meetings to discuss cases, receive feedback, and refine their approach to housing support services.
- Performance Evaluations: A mid-point and final evaluation will assess the intern’s progress, strengths, and areas for growth, with constructive feedback.

Learning Outcome:

By the end of the internship, the student will be able to:

1. Navigate housing resources and programs available for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
2. Assist with housing applications, including gathering necessary documentation and ensuring compliance with eligibility requirements.
3. Conduct initial client intakes and assessments to determine housing needs and available support services.
4. Develop and implement individualized housing plans in collaboration with clients and service providers.
5. Understand and apply trauma-informed and client-centered approaches in housing case management.
6. Maintain accurate and confidential client records, following ethical and legal guidelines.
7. Identify barriers to stable housing and propose solutions to address these challenges.
8. Gain experience in crisis intervention and conflict resolution related to housing insecurity.
9. Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings to coordinate care and resources for clients.