Financial Empowerment Counselor

Description

• MISSION:

The Mission of YWCA Delaware is to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.

CUSTOMER IMPACT STATEMENT:

Provide comprehensive financial coaching and housing counseling services to individuals and families seeking assistance with financial management, homeownership, rental housing, and foreclosure prevention. This role also involves administrative duties such as intake, data tracking, monthly reporting, and participating in community outreach activities. This role requires a thorough understanding of HUD regulations and guidelines, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to work effectively with diverse populations. Candidates with HUD certification at the time of application or can obtain it within 180 days of hire are preferred.

This position reports to the Chief Programs and Development Officer.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (may include, but not limited to):

CLIENT COUNSELING AND EDUCATION

• Conduct 1:1 counseling sessions with clients to assess their housing needs, financial situations, and eligibility for various housing programs.
• Provide guidance on home buying, renting, mortgage default/foreclosure prevention, credit improvement, and financial management.
• In collaboration with the Asset Building Program Manager, develop and deliver group educational workshops and seminars on topics such as homebuyer education, tenant rights and responsibilities, and budgeting.

PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION

• Maintain accurate and detailed client files, ensuring compliance with HUD and agency requirements.
• Utilize client management systems to track client progress and outcomes, recording all communications after each client interaction.
• Prepare and submit required reports to HUD and other funding agencies in a timely manner.
• Ensure client files are securely stored with all required documents and forms.
• Ensure maximum economy and efficiency in the use of Agency resources.

OUTREACH AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

• Participate in community outreach activities to promote the agency’s financial management and housing counseling services.
• Establish and maintain partnerships with local organizations, lenders, real estate professionals, and government agencies to enhance service delivery and client support.
• Positively represent the agency at community events, meetings, and conferences.

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE AND COMPLIANCE

• Stay current with HUD regulations, housing market trends, and best practices in financial and housing counseling.
• Provide technical assistance to clients regarding available housing resources and government programs.
• Ensure all counseling activities adhere to HUD guidelines and agency policies.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

• Participate in ongoing training and professional development opportunities to maintain HUD certification and enhance counseling skills.
• Attend relevant workshops, seminars, and conferences to stay informed about industry developments and network with other professionals.

CASE MANAGEMENT

• Conduct client assessments to help them make informed financial decisions.
• Develop individualized budgets and action plans for clients, setting realistic goals and timelines.
• Follow up with clients regularly to monitor progress and provide additional support as needed.
• Assist clients in accessing financial assistance programs, down payment assistance, rental assistance, and other resources.
• Attend mortgage mediation hearings to assist clients navigating the Delaware Mortgage Foreclosure Mediation Program.

Other duties as assigned.

Benefits:

We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• 17 PTO day
• 10 sick days
• Wellness Day off
• 35-hour work week
• Hybrid (3 days in office)
• Free garage parking

YWCA Delaware is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to inclusivity and encourage qualified candidates from all cultures and communities to apply.

YWCA Delaware is a leading advocate for women by providing housing, violence prevention and sexual assault crisis services, financial empowerment, racial justice and youth programming. We empower women politically, financially and socially while fostering the confidence and can-do attitude needed to eliminate barriers and overcome life’s obstacles. We are a statewide organization headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware. Annually we serve approximately 6,700 participants within our comprehensive programs. Our mission is to eliminate racism, empower women, stand up for social justice, help families and strengthen communities.

No phone calls please.

Requirements

Education: Bachelor’s degree preferred. Minimum of five years’ work experience in a related field.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong skills, knowledge, and experience:

• Experience as a housing counselor, loan processor, or financial educator
• Case management and secure document handling
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and client management software
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Managing multiple tasks in a high-volume environment
• Bilingual skills (Strongly preferred, but not required)

Certifications: Certification from a HUD approved training program must be acquired within twelve months of hire.

Work Schedule: Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Some evenings and weekends may be required depending on agency needs. Travel within the community may be required to attend meetings, workshops, and outreach events.

Physical Requirements: Sitting, standing, talking, hearing, reading, math, lifting 25 lbs.

Other:  Valid, insurable driver’s license. Criminal background may be required.