Learning module

Navigating Federal Programs for Service Coordinators

1.5 contact hours 3 learning objectives

Service coordinators play a crucial role in connecting residents with a variety of services, some of which may not be readily available in their local communities. Many of these supportive services are funded directly or indirectly by federal programs and agencies. However, the fragmentation of these programs can make it challenging for residents to access the services they need. Additionally, many residents in affordable housing communities are unaware of the available federal programs.

This module provides a comprehensive overview of federal programs relevant to service coordinators and residents. It covers the types of federally assisted housing, social and supportive services, and various service coordination programs. Participants will gain insights into how these programs are administered at different levels and learn strategies to effectively navigate and utilize them.

What You'll Learn

Module objectives

  • Identify major federal programs, including housing programs and those that are available as part of the social services network.

  • Know how to access information from federal agencies that administer social service programs.

  • Learn how federal programs are administered at the federal, state and local levels.

Table of Contents

Module sequence

  1. Module Home

    This section introduces federal programs and agencies that support residents and service coordination. It provides an overview of federally assisted housing and other service-related programs.

  2. Objectives

    Review the learning objectives for this module. Use them to focus on the knowledge and skills covered in the sections that follow.

  3. Background

    This section provides background for navigating federal programs. Learners will encounter introductory context and related information.

  4. Federal Housing Programs

    This section provides an overview of major federal housing programs for low-income individuals. It describes HUD and USDA housing programs, eligibility concepts, and a section review question.

  5. Service Coordination Programs

    This lesson covers service coordination programs in federally subsidized and public housing. It describes ROSS, multifamily housing service coordinators, family self-sufficiency, and program funding.

  6. The Social Safety Net

    This section discusses the social safety net and related federal programs. Learners will encounter program information and a section review.

  7. Serving Specific Populations

    This section discusses programs and services for specific resident populations and needs. It addresses how location, housing type, eligibility, and federal programs can affect available support.

  8. Medicare and Medicaid

    This lesson provides an overview of Medicare and Medicaid and distinguishes the two programs. It discusses eligibility, coverage, and the service coordinator's role in navigating health-care services.

  9. Legislation, Regulations and Advocacy

    This section covers legislation, regulations, and advocacy related to federal programs. Learners will encounter related information and a section review.

  10. Additional Resources

    This section lists organizations and publications related to housing, policy, benefits, and supportive services. It provides sources for further reference on serving residents and specific populations.

  11. Post Test

    Complete the module post-test to check your understanding of the material. Use the results to identify topics you may want to review.

  12. Evaluation

    Share feedback about the module and your learning experience. Complete this evaluation as you finish the module.

  13. Certificate

    Access your certificate after completing the required module activities. Use this section to view or download documentation of completion.