Direct Cash Transfer Advocate

Description

NAYA Family Center is seeking a compassionate and resourceful Direct Cash Transfer (DCT) Advocate to support youth transitioning into permanent housing. This position plays a vital role in the DCT program, working directly with youth to reduce barriers, support document readiness, and build housing stability. The DCT Advocate navigates systems, coordinates services, and partners with property managers to ensure smooth transitions. This is a direct-service role that requires strong relationship-building skills, adaptability, and a deep commitment to equity and youth-centered care.

NAYA offers an exceptional benefits package, including free medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees (with affordable options for family members), a 401(k) retirement plan with a 6% match, paid vacation, and 14 paid holidays.

This is a full-time, exempt role with work hours of 9 am to 6 pm with a one-hour lunch. Once training and onboarding are complete, there may be flexibility to work from home 1-2 day a week.  

The pay rate for this position is $28 an hour.

Who You Are

• You have lived or professional experience working with diverse populations, particularly within Native American communities.
• You bring at least two years of experience working with youth and/or individuals experiencing homelessness.
• You hold a high school diploma or GED; a degree in social work, human services, or a related field is preferred.
• You are knowledgeable about the root causes of poverty and homelessness, including trauma, mental illness, and systemic inequities.
• You are familiar with housing-first and harm-reduction models and have experience navigating housing systems.
• You have strong interpersonal skills and build trust with clients through clear communication, consistency, and empathy.
• You are skilled in problem-solving and navigating barriers to housing, including documentation and eligibility challenges.
• You are organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage a high-volume caseload while meeting deadlines.
• You are comfortable working independently in field-based, non-traditional settings, and thrive in team-based environments.
• You have experience working with landlords, property managers, or housing providers.
• You communicate effectively with participants, coworkers, and community partners, and adapt your approach to meet diverse needs.
• You demonstrate self-awareness, cultural humility, and a commitment to equity and client-centered care.
• You are consistently reliable, punctual, and responsive in support of your team and the youth you serve.
• You are proficient in computer skills, including database entry (ETO preferred), web-based research, email, and Excel.
• You are certified in CPR/First Aid/AED or are willing to obtain certification.

What You'll Do

• Work directly with youth from the DCT program to support their transition into stable housing.
• Verify eligibility for housing programs and assist with securing required documents (ID, birth certificates, etc.).
• Provide barrier mitigation support to ensure rapid access to housing after referral.
• Coordinate directly with landlords and housing providers to facilitate the lease-up process.
• Build relationships with property managers to ensure smooth tenancy and conflict resolution.
• Provide individualized and group financial wellness education to help youth build foundational skills.
• Connect youth to additional community resources, including employment, benefits, and transportation.
• Maintain accurate and timely case notes and client records in NAYA's database system.
• Ensure contract compliance, collect required data, and support timely reporting.
• Support cross-departmental collaboration by coordinating wraparound services with other NAYA programs.
• Participate in ongoing training, team meetings, and process improvement efforts to strengthen program outcomes.
• Support a trauma-informed and culturally responsive approach to service delivery.
• Represent NAYA professionally in meetings, community events, and stakeholder partnerships.
• Adapt to evolving program needs and contribute actively to a supportive, mission-driven team.

Read the full job description here.

Application Instructions Providing a cover letter helps us best understand your interest in the role, so we encourage you to submit one along with your resume. If you need accommodation during the application process, please email jobs@nayapdx.org. 

Questions? Want to chat about this role before you decide to apply? Contact Cheyenna Kimbol, Youth Housing Manager, or the HR team. 

NAYA is committed to building a work environment that respects and inspires every community member. Our mission is to serve Urban Native youth and families, so we strongly encourage members of the Native community to apply. We encourage applications from members of other historically marginalized groups, as well, including women, people of color, those with disabilities, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and those who have served in the military.