New Alternatives for Children, Inc. (NAC) is an award-winning not-for-profit agency in Midtown Manhattan, with a satellite Bronx office, dedicated to serving children and families with medical complexities, disabilities, chronic illnesses and behavioral challenges. To assist us in achieving this mission, NAC is currently seeking a talented and qualified Family Support Specialist to join the Family Support department.
Description: The Family Support Specialist supports the agency by helping to provide direct support to children and youth participating in all program related activities; supervising family visits in the Foster Care Program; and planning and implementing safe and appropriate recreation activities, groups, and special events. S/he will become familiar and knowledgeable about the organization, the function of each department, and related policies and procedures. Required to work in person.
This position supports N.A.C.’s mission to provide the highest quality of care by complying with regulatory guidelines and meeting child welfare industry standards.
Ancillary responsibilities as a backup Receptionist involve working at the front desk as the initial point of contact (for clients, guests, and other visitors) and fielding calls and inquiries.
· Title of Position:Family Support Specialist
· Position Type: Full–time, Monday through Friday with flexibility of cleints. Ability and willingness to work a flexible schedule – particularly evenings and Saturdays.
· Pay Range: $42,000 - $45,000
· Location: 825 7th Avenue, New York, NY 10019
· Department: Family Support
Description of Responsibilities:
Primary Responsibilities as Family Support Specialist:
· Report to office to support the Family Support Department with all daily tasks.
· Appropriately and consistently document and otherwise communicate feedback regarding family visits and recreation activities.
· May be asked to assist recreation staff with overseeing trips, groups, and special events.
· Support all in-office requests, which will include the organization and data collection of donations (clothing and toy drives), supporting N.A.C.’s food pantry, etc.
· Could be called upon to act as a chaperone on NAC vans for transportation to and from client's home.
· Assist in managing children who have difficult behaviors (including individuals with autism) and all its related activities.
· Performs other duties in accordance with agency needs.
Ancillary Responsibilities as Backup Receptionist:
· Greet all clients, visitors, and staff in a welcoming manner
· Report security, safety concerns and issues immediately to appropriate Supervisors
· Answer telephones/screen incoming calls
· Distribute clear messages; written and/or orally
· Occasionally interact with messengers and vendors
· Maintain Client/Vendor Sign-In/Out Sheet, and “Fire Attendance Sheets” in the event of a Fire Drill or False Alarm.
· As member of our fire/safety team, respond quickly to emergency situations
· Communicate with transportation dept. for clients’ return home when needed
· Communicate arrival of all clients with staff via phone, paging, or email.
· Communicate with Building Management at new location as it relates to visitor security
· May manage keys for various offices and closets in the agency at main reception desk as needed
· Other duties as assigned by Office Management leadership
Required Education and Experience:
· College level coursework in Psychology, Social Work, Education, Human Services or other related field preferred. High school diploma required.
· 1 year of experience planning and implementing direct support services to children or families, preferably those experiencing disabilities or medical fragility.
· Ability and willingness to work a flexible schedule based on individual client and family needs. Some later evenings and at least 1x/month Saturdays required.
· Familiarity with New York City and the diverse recreational opportunities that exist here.
· Experience working with multidisciplinary staff and programs is a plus.
· CPR/first aid and mandated reporter and are required prior to or immediately following employment.
· Ability to communicate in Spanish is a plus.
· Familiarity with event planning is a plus.
· Experience in general office procedures and Reception is helpful.
Required Skills:
· Must be computer literate, have good organizational skills, along with the ability to multi-task. Must be detail oriented, pleasant phone manner, and proficient in general office procedures and the ability to work well with the public.
· Must be able to perform essential duties satisfactorily with reasonable accommodation.
· Light lifting is required. Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force to constantly move objects.
How to Apply:
Please indicate Family Support Specialist in the subject line when applying. Please submit a cover letter and resume to: Michael Celentano Mcelentano@nackidscan.org.
For information on New Alternatives for Children, Inc., visit our website at www.nackidscan.org
New Alternatives for Children, Inc. is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
New Alternatives for Children, Inc. was founded on the principle of inclusion. We strive to create and maintain a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace at all levels. It is not enough to serve; we must strive to dismantle oppressive policies and practices.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $42,000.00 - $45,000.00 per year
Patient demographics:
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Evening shift
- Monday to Friday
- Weekends as needed
Education:
Work Location: In person