Director of Housing and Supportive Services

Organizational Overview
Dakota Woodlands is a nonprofit organization based in Eagan, MN. It is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment for families experiencing homelessness. Our mission is to help individuals achieve stability and independence through comprehensive support and compassionate care. We offer housing, resources, and programs designed to help families rebuild their lives and find success. Clients at Dakota Woodlands receive nutritious meals, private bedrooms, personal care products, seasonal clothing, and opportunities to develop essential life skills through targeted case management and family goal planning, which promote their ability to succeed independently.

Position Overview
Dakota Woodlands is seeking a compassionate, driven, and experienced Director of Housing & Supportive Services. This key leadership role involves managing vital aspects of Dakota Woodlands’ shelter programs and supportive services. The Director sets the tone and models advocacy and client service standards that reflect the organization’s values. This role works collaboratively to establish program goals, ensure the quality of shelter program operations, and support the adoption of best and emerging practices.

This position includes a wide range of responsibilities, including planning, organization, staffing, leadership, and training. The Director ensures the delivery of high-quality, compassionate services using evidence-based, trauma-informed, and strength-based approaches.

The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker, a compassionate leader, and an advocate for change. The Director will work closely with the Executive Director and community stakeholders to support the organization’s long-term sustainability and continued impact.

Why Work for Dakota Woodlands?

Dakota Woodlands envisions a community where families in crisis receive the support they need to regain stability, achieve self-sufficiency, and build a strong foundation for their future. Our mission is to empower families experiencing homelessness by providing shelter, supportive services, and access to community resources that promote long-term stability.

Our core values guide our work and define our commitment to families:

Compassion: Providing trauma-informed, client-centered care.

Dignity: Respecting the strengths and potential of every family.

Collaboration: Partnering internally and with the community to enhance services.

Accountability: Upholding transparency, integrity, and high standards in service delivery.

Innovation: Continuously improving to meet the evolving needs of families.

Areas of Responsibility:                                                               

Program & Shelter Operations Management

Oversee day-to-day operations of the shelter and housing programs, ensuring efficiency in client move-ins and move-outs.

Ensure programs align with best practices in supportive housing and case management.

Manage communication with county and supportive housing workers, ensuring smooth collaboration.

Oversee the client store and essential needs services, ensuring families have access to necessary supplies.

Develop and monitor program budgets, ensuring efficient use of resources.

Ensure adherence to all regulatory compliance standards and grant requirements.

Monitor policy changes and advocate for legislation supporting housing services.

Implement data tracking systems to evaluate program success and client progress.

Monitor program performance metrics and outcomes to ensure effectiveness and support grant reporting requirements.

Research and implement best practices in program delivery to improve service quality and client outcomes.

Work with leadership to align programs with strategic organizational goals.

Develop strategies to ensure programs are culturally competent, inclusive, and equitable.

Utilize technology to streamline program delivery and enhance reporting efficiency.

Provide strategic direction for client programming and ensure alignment with Dakota Woodlands’ mission, trauma-informed care model, and long-term client stability goals.

Client Services & Case Management Oversight

Ensure programming supports client goal plans developed through case management and promotes long-term stability and independence.

Lead the strategic development and oversight of supportive services and client programming tailored to resident needs and aligned with case management goals.

Ensure effective implementation of life skills workshops, educational programs, and supportive services delivered through program staff, volunteers, and community partnerships.

Establish client feedback mechanisms to assess service effectiveness.

Monitor program participation, outcomes, and effectiveness through data and feedback, using this information to improve service delivery.

Work with leadership to enhance service delivery through data-driven decision-making.

Oversee crisis management and conflict resolution services for clients.

Manage client financial matters, including coordination with financial workers.

Provide rental references, residency letters, and client financial documentation as needed.

Staff Leadership & Development

Recruit, train, and supervise case management staff, childcare staff, and client support teams.

Supervise the Client Programs & Engagement Coordinator and provide guidance on program development, implementation, and evaluation.

Provide coaching, support, and professional development to enhance staff performance.

Foster cross-department collaboration to align goals and maximize impact.

Conduct regular evaluations and support staff in addressing challenges.

Develop succession planning strategies to ensure continuity of services.

Identify and mentor emerging leaders within the team.

Additional Responsibilities

Address crises and challenges with effective solutions while upholding the organization’s mission and values.

Support facility operations to ensure clients have access to supplies, food services, and safe accommodations.

Additional responsibilities as they arise due to organizational growth and expansion.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in a related field and six (5) years of experience in a senior management position or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Proven history of consistent and stable employment.

Four (4) years of experience supervising full-time staff.

Excellent professional written and verbal communication skills.

Proven ability to work effectively in a diverse team environment and manage multiple high-priority projects simultaneously.

Demonstrated understanding of program management and evaluation in an outcomes-based framework.

Effective supervisory, administrative, and organizational skills.

Confident and comfortable in public speaking and representing Dakota Woodlands in various forums.

Competence in advocacy with a demonstrated ability to identify issues and execute plans to address them.

High level of computer literacy, including proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and financial competency in managing program budgets.

Ability to train, supervise, and motivate staff.

Demonstrated knowledge and experience in direct service programs and/or case management.

Ability to maintain collaborative partnerships, both internal and external to the organization.

Commitment to the mission and values of Dakota Woodlands.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience in social services or homeless services.

Knowledge of issues surrounding homelessness, housing services, and community resources.

Trauma-informed certification or training, with demonstrated application of these principles in program delivery and client interactions.

Working Conditions

Full-time position with occasional evening and weekend hours.

Based at Dakota Woodlands in Eagan, MN, some local travel is expected.

Role may involve moderate physical activity, such as lifting supplies and participating in events.

Additional Information: 

A hybrid schedule may be available after ninety (90) days, contingent on performance and organizational needs.

Benefits include Medical, Dental, Retirement, Short-Term Disability (STD), Long-Term Disability (LTD), Paid Time Off (PTO), and paid holidays.

How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter detailing their qualifications and interest in the position to [email protected].

Dakota Woodlands is an equal opportunity employer. Opportunities for employment are available to all persons, regardless of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, marital status, or status with regard to public assistance. Dakota Woodland’s facilities are accessible. Individuals who have experienced homelessness are encouraged to apply.