Program Associate

About Louisiana Fair Housing Action Center (LaFHAC)

LaFHAC is a non-profit organization that seeks to eradicate housing discrimination, an illegal and divisive force that perpetuates poverty and segregation, and limits opportunity. LaFHAC was established in 1995 and is the only full-service fair housing advocacy organization in Louisiana. LaFHAC addresses housing discrimination by 1) educating housing consumers and providers about their rights and responsibilities to proactively prevent violations of the Fair Housing Act; 2) investigating fair housing violations; 3) challenging discriminatory housing practices and policies through litigation; 4) advocating for new policies that promote equitable housing; and 5) counseling homeowners facing foreclosure.

Position Summary

The Louisiana Fair Housing Action Center seeks a part-time program associate to support the execution and assessment of a privately-funded debt relief program, in accordance with program goals. The program associate will report directly to the Director of Housing Counseling. Additionally, the associate will collaborate closely with Enforcement and Eviction departments to ensure the successful delivery of projects and initiatives.

Required Qualifications

● Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., social sciences, public or business administration, finance), commensurate work experience or a combination of education and experience.

● Ability to interpret credit reports and provide guidance on how to improve credit scores

● Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively.

● Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, both written and verbal.

● Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Zoom, and Google Meet and other relevant software applications.

● Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and build positive relationships with diverse stakeholders.

● Flexibility, adaptability, and a willingness to take on new challenges and responsibilities as needed.

● A demonstrated commitment to promoting racial justice is preferred.  

Essential Functions

● Conduct one-on-one financial counseling sessions with clients to assess their financial situation, goals, and challenges.

● Provide administrative support for program activities, including scheduling meetings, coordinating logistics, and managing documentation.

● Support program evaluation efforts by collecting and analyzing data, preparing reports, and identifying areas for improvement.

● Provide guidance on budgeting, debt management, savings strategies, and investment options based on clients' needs and objectives.

● Develop personalized action plans to help clients achieve their short-term and long-term financial goals.

● Maintain client confidentiality and adhere to ethical standards in financial counseling practices.

● Document client interactions, progress, and outcomes in accordance with organizational policies and procedures.

● Serve as a point of contact for program participants, responding to inquiries, providing assistance, and ensuring a positive experience for all involved.

● Maintain accurate records of program activities, including attendance, participant feedback, and outcomes achieved.

● Prepare regular progress reports for program director and other stakeholders, highlighting key achievements, challenges, and upcoming milestones.

Compensation:

The salary for this full-time position is $50,000. This is a term position not to exceed 1 year. LaFHAC’s benefits include 100% employer-paid medical insurance for employees, with available dental and vision coverage; flex spending account; 401(k) with employer-matched contributions; paid vacation, and paid parental leave.

Please Note: LaFHAC’s staff continues to work on a hybrid schedule due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Employees are required to work in the office two days per week. The Program Associate will work a hybrid schedule in alignment with LaFHAC’s Housing Counseling Department, but will be required to complete in-person tasks that may include, but is not limited to, meeting with program participants on non-hybrid days.

How to Apply

The position is open until filled but applications will be reviewed starting November 1, 2024. Please email a resume and cover letter explaining your interest in the position to resumes@lafairhousing.org with the subject line “Program Associate.” All correspondence should be addressed to Director of Housing Counseling, Giazzlyn Duncan. Please note: due to the expected volume of submissions, we will not be able to return emails or phone calls about specific applications. Applicants selected for an interview will be notified via email.

LaFHAC is an equal opportunity employer. LaFHAC values diversity and inclusion in the workplace because it enhances the work we do, reflects the communities we serve, and embodies the values we further and defend. Candidates of all backgrounds are welcome.