Position Overview
Homes First is seeking a motivated and compassionate intern or volunteer to develop a mobile and / or web application that will help match seniors seeking shared housing arrangements. This application will help address senior housing insecurity while fostering community connections and reducing social isolation among older adults.
About the Project
The Senior Housing Match application will enable seniors to create profiles, specify their housing preferences, lifestyle habits, and compatibility factors, and be matched with compatible housemates. The app will prioritize user safety, accessibility, and ease of use for older adults who may have varying levels of technical proficiency.
Key Responsibilities
Application Development :
Design and develop a user-friendly mobile and / or web application with accessibility considerations for senior users
- Create intuitive user profiles with relevant matching criteria (lifestyle, budget, location, accessibility needs, interests)
- Implement a matching algorithm that considers compatibility factors and user preferences
- Build secure messaging / communication features for potential matches to connect
- Develop admin dashboard for Homes First staff to monitor matches and provide support
User Experience :
Conduct user research with seniors to understand their needs and preferences
Design large, clear interfaces with high contrast and readable fontsEnsure compliance with WCAG accessibility standardsImplement simple, straightforward navigation suitable for varying technical skill levelsSecurity & Privacy :
Implement secure authentication and data protection measures
Ensure HIPAA compliance if handling any health-related informationBuild verification features to enhance user safetyDevelop privacy controls allowing users to control information sharingCollaboration :
Work closely with Homes First staff to understand organizational needs
Participate in regular check-ins and provide progress updatesDocument code and create user guides for future maintenanceProvide training to staff on application managementQualifications
Required :
Proficiency in mobile development (iOS / Android) and / or web development (React, Vue, Angular, or similar)
Experience with backend development and database management (SQL, NoSQL)Understanding of UI / UX design principlesStrong problem-solving and analytical skillsExcellent communication skillsPassion for social impact and helping vulnerable populationsPreferred :
Experience developing applications for older adults or accessibility-focused projects
Knowledge of matching algorithms or recommendation systemsFamiliarity with cloud platforms (AWS, Google Cloud, Azure)Understanding of security best practices and data privacy regulationsExperience with Agile development methodologiesBackground in nonprofit or social service technologyTime Commitment
Minimum commitment : 3-6 months
Flexible schedule : 10-20 hours per week (adjustable based on availability)Remote work possible with periodic in-person meetingsProject can be completed as part of academic credit, capstone project, or volunteer workWhat You'll Gain
Portfolio-worthy project showcasing full-stack development skills
Experience creating technology solutions for social goodOpportunity to directly impact seniors' quality of life and housing securityMentorship and reference from Homes First leadershipFlexible schedule accommodating academic or professional commitmentsNetworking opportunities within the nonprofit technology spaceAcademic credit eligibility (if applicable to your program)Certificate of completion and recommendation letter upon successful project completion