Agency Overview
Healing Action Network partners with survivors and the community to end commercial sexual exploitation. We do this through community awareness, client advocacy, and a comprehensive array of services. We fulfill our mission through three distinct programs.
- Center for Survivors – We provide trauma recovery services that include intensive service management, trauma therapy, individual and group peer support services, drop-in support center, and psychoeducation & trauma groups, and housing to adults who have experienced all forms of sexual exploitation including, but not limited to, sex trafficking, prostitution, stripping, escorting, pornography, and survival sex.
- Coalition Against Trafficking & Exploitation (CATE) – CATE is a statewide coalition to prevent and respond to human trafficking and exploitation. Primary activities include workgroups, policy advocacy, research & data collection, and standards of care.
- Volunteer Service Link – Program is designed to build the capacity of our community partners, increase identification of human trafficking victims, develop efficient data collection methods, and develop a diverse pool of trafficking trained community members across Missouri. We connect volunteers to Missouri victim service organizations. Volunteers can choose from a variety of organizations across the state to gain skills, build relationships, and build a stronger safety net for survivors.
Position Overview
The Housing Navigator plays a pivotal role in our organization, assisting survivors in securing safe and stable housing in the St. Louis Metro area. They will work closely with survivors to understand their housing needs, provide support in navigating the housing market, and advocate for their rights as tenants. The Housing Navigator will also collaborate with landlords, community partners, and the Continuum of Care (CoC) to expand access to safe and affordable housing options for survivors. Certified Peer Specialists with lived experience are encouraged to apply.
Minimum Qualifications and Requirements
- Minimum 3 – 5 years previous experience in housing advocacy, case management, or related fields preferred.
- Peer Specialists must have completed the Missouri Credentialing Board (MCB) approved training and be a Certified Peer Specialist (CPS)
- Identify with Healing Action’s organizational values of Collaboration, Self-Determination, Wellbeing, Authenticity, Transparency, and Quality.
- Are comfortable and excited to work in a diverse, open, and affirming workplace environment that is pro DEI and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
- Have a valid driver’s license and ability to obtain a Class E License within one week of starting employment, proof of automobile insurance, and reliable transportation with Proof of auto insurance that has no less than $100,000 bodily injury per person, $300,000 bodily injury per accident, and at least $100,000 property damage per accident.
- Have a non-disqualifying criminal background check.
- Knowledge and understanding of trauma-informed theories, principles, and best practices in working with individuals with complex trauma.
- A rights-based, harm reduction, and social justice framework
- Demonstrated ability to model appropriate relational boundaries, use team as support, and practice self-care when exposed to high volume of traumatized victims.
- Strong interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills; proven ability to communicate with diverse audiences.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks including proficiency in balancing direct service responsibilities with effective record keeping.
What You’ll Do…
Trauma Informed Practice
- Establish a helping relationship, assesses complex problems, selects problem solving interventions and help Members function effectively.
- Determine eligibility for services and expedited assistance, ensuring survivors reside within our targeted service region or are willing to relocate.
- Assist survivors in locating, obtaining, and retaining suitable housing, including tenant counseling and support with rental applications.
- Educate survivors about their rights and responsibilities as tenants, including lease agreements and housing protections.
- Establish and maintain collaborative relationships with landlords and CoC partners to facilitate lease negotiations and rental payments.
- Provide ongoing support to survivors in addressing challenges related to rent payments, housing conditions, repairs, and other concerns.
- Attend local CoC meetings to enhance partnerships with housing providers and raise awareness of sex and labor trafficking issues.
- Coordinate the integration of social services between systems by providing case management.
- Inform Members about community and natural supports and how to use these in the recovery process.
- Work with Service Team to strengthen the infrastructure required to expand and deliver comprehensive services.
- Promote effective and efficient utilization of clinical resources.
Administration
- Complete and maintain accurate, timely service documentation, including case notes, assessments, and outcome tracking to ensure compliance and quality service delivery.
- Participate in regular team meetings, supervision sessions, and all-agency meetings to align on service strategies, update on care progress, and ensure consistent trauma-informed care practices.
- Engage in ongoing professional development, including trainings on trauma-informed care, human trafficking, and best practices, to continuously enhance skills and knowledge.
- Contribute to agency data collection and reporting efforts, providing insights on program outcomes, and supporting service evaluation and improvement.
- Collaborate with team members to strengthen administrative processes and support service delivery, ensuring seamless and effective care coordination.
