Housing Navigation Volunteers

Help guide and support newly-arrived refugees as they navigate the housing process. As a Housing Navigation Volunteer with HMI, you'll ensure a warm and smooth transition into their new lives by securing safe and stable housing.

 

Scope of Work:

The Reception and Placement (R&P) Program at HMI offers crucial support and guidance to newcomers through the initial stages of resettlement. Housing Navigation Volunteers work alongside our Housing Coordinator and Case Managers to help newcomers find and secure permanent housing.

Securing affordable housing is one of the most challenging and critical tasks in the resettlement process. Newly-arrived refugees often face numerous barriers, including limited financial resources, unfamiliarity with the local housing market, language barriers, and a lack of rental history or credit. Affordable housing is not only scarce but also competitive, making it difficult for refugees to find suitable accommodations without assistance. Housing Navigation Volunteers play an essential role in overcoming these challenges.

Time Commitment:

5-10 hours per week

This position’s time commitment is based on our arrival schedule, as HMI received information on the family arriving and seeking housing.

Responsibilities:

  • Booking temporary housing for clients prior to arrival (as needed)

  • Locating and securing permanent housing

  • Filling out rental applications

  • Accompanying clients to lease signing and tax credit appointments

  • Setting up new homes and moving in families

  • Conducting housing orientations

  • Performing administrative duties such as case noting and case filing

  • Providing overall support to the housing team as needed

Qualifications:

  • Ability to handle sensitive client information confidentially.

  • Strong organizational and time management skills.

  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

  • Must have a reliable personal vehicle for volunteer responsibilities.

  • Must be adaptable, flexible, and patient.

  • Familiarity with Windows operating system and confidence in basic computer skills (word processing, email, data entry).

  • Familiarity with trauma-informed practices preferred.

  • Ability to communicate effectively in English; additional fluency in one of the following languages is desirable but not required: Spanish, Dari, Pashto, native Guatemalan langauges.

  • Willingness to adhere to HMI volunteer and workplace policies.

How to Apply:

1. Complete our volunteer form.

2. Prepare a copy of your Driver’s License and Car Insurance to submit.

3. An HMI staff member will follow up with you, or you can send an email to our HR Coordinator, Sedef Altug at HR@hmir.org.