The Housing Navigator Pilot will respond to a slice of the housing problem through two interconnected program components: An NAACP-led community navigator program, and a new pro bono diversion effort. The Columbia NAACP branch has a particularly robust presence and housing committee. Based out of the branch (including virtually), and after receiving training, navigators will serve as a coordinated access and service point. Focusing initially on tenants who are behind on rent, they’ll help identify individuals on the verge of eviction; conduct intake for those who reach out through the virtual intake form, by email, by phone, or in person; provide information about tenant rights and options (while steering clear of Unauthorized Practice of Law); and, perhaps most importantly, directly connect tenants to existing legal services, nonlegal services, and rental assistance.
Navigators will also be backstopped by a new, stepped-up pro-bono attorney program. Working alongside the navigators, trained attorneys will represent tenants directly in virtual landlord-tenant negotiations. Over time, these lawyers will be able to take on full-scope representation in failure-to-pay cases.
Purpose of project
- To provide opportunities for law students to work alongside pro bono attorneys and low-income clients
- To provide skills development and enhancement opportunities for law students
- To create an awareness of the problems and rewards of being a public interest attorney
- To observe the housing legal system in action and work on solutions
- To provide opportunities to participate in negotiations
Requirements or qualifications
Law students must:
- be a good academic standing
- complete and submit the Volunteer Enrollment Form
- have completed one semester of law school
- have an interest in serving the indigent population
- have an interest in providing relief for an emerging issue
Responsibilities of organizations
The NAACP Housing Navigator Pilot Program, Columbia NAACP Branch and associated attorneys must:
- agree to properly supervise the work of the law student
- provide clear and timely instructions and training
- seek opportunities to expose the students to various tasks
- provide feedback when possible.
Responsibilities of the students
The students must:
- communicate effectively and efficiently with the NAACP Housing Navigator Pilot Project office and the supervising attorneys
- complete tasks in a timely and competent manner
- seek assistance when needed
- perform duties professionally
- treat this volunteer opportunity as if it was a paying or for-credit position
Skills Opportunities
The following Core Skills may be associated with this particular volunteer opportunity. Not all tasks will contain all of these skills. See the complete Core Competencies & Skills Inventory for more details.
- Core Skill: Oral Communication and Listening Abilities
- Core Skill: Writing Skills
- Core Skill: General Research Skills
- Core Skill: Critical Reading Abilities
- Core Skill: Task Organization and Management
- Core Skills: Professionalism
Next Steps?
- Submit this form to indicate your interests.
- Keep track of your volunteer time with M.Y. Pro Bono.