Supportive Service Specialist

POSITION SUMMARY: The YMCA of Newark and Vicinity is looking for Full Time Supportive Service Specialists responsible for aiding both the individuals and the families residing in the Housing and Social Responsibility programs concerning different aspects of their social functioning that adversely affect their lives, all in accordance with the department established policies and procedures and the legally mandated licensing standards. The YMCA's recruitment process includes comprehensive background screening including pre-employment drug test and criminal background check and upon hire, a wide range of training. SUMMARY OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Ensure all client information is entered into the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) and Tollo database accurately and on a timely basis. Ensure that all clients assessment is conducted within 72 hours of intake. Evaluate the need for social services and make necessary referrals to the appropriate social agencies. Counsel clients pertaining various aspects of the public assistance and related available programs. Assist supervisor in resolving difficult and complex client social issues with supervisor. Link all clients access that may qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability (SSD). Stay alert to any client that has special needs such as senior citizen that may need to be linked to senior living. Counsel and assist singles or families who lack sufficient capacities in planning and managing their affairs. Collaborate with appropriate staff members in planning and carrying out plans for providing services to clients. Prepare or report in the form of case entries and prepare social case histories. Provide individual counseling sessions per week, as well as group counseling weekly to program clients. Maintain a liaison with community and civic organizations and social agencies. Assist the Supportive Service Specialist Director with the daily supervision of the day/evening/weekend counselors in the areas of counseling skills, communication, sensitivity, and concerns of shelter residents. Maintain the necessary standards to comply with all federal, state, or local licensing requirements. Maintain and prepare required statistical reports necessary for internal or external reporting for ERP program. Maintain all necessary and related records and files. Ensure that the Emergency Residence Program is a safe, clean, and risk-free environment. Assist in maintaining and updating staff and on-call phone list. Ensure all Department Operations are consistent with the Association procedures. This includes safety, insurance, incident/accident reports, registrations, purchasing, HR and Payroll procedures, accounting, and maintain appropriate logs and records. Provide data and reports as required for assigned programs. Maintain confidentiality as necessary in compliance with policies and regulations. Attend all trainings and meetings as required. Maintain a safe work environment, free of clutter, debris and hazardous conditions and ensure cleanliness of facility. Provide excellent customer service and care for all including but not limited to internal and external customers/ members/ residents/ visitors/ clients/ patrons/ vendors/ suppliers/ staff/ volunteers. Demonstrate and model the YMCA's four core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility. Perform such other job-related duties as may be periodically assigned by the Supervisor. Exhibit personal and professional behavior in a manner consistent with the best interest of the Association, so as not to bring discredit to the Association. Cooperate, work effectively and congenially with all YMCA staff members, volunteers, and members of the Association. QUALIFICATIONS: B.A. or B.S. in Social Services or a related field and/or minimum five (5) years of experience within a Social Service agency. Knowledge of principles and practices of social work, social and economic problems, and state and local resource agencies. Proficient computer skills including Microsoft (Word, Excel, Power-point), data entry, utilizing emails and internet. Knowledge of federal, state and/or community related regulations. Strong administrative and record maintenance skills. Strong human relations and interpersonal skills. Excellent verbal and written communication skills including negotiation, presentation skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community. Excellent time management skills and strong organizational skills. Must have strong attention to details. Ability to manage, perform and prioritize multiple and complex tasks and projects independently. Ability to analyze complex information and to define and solve problems. Ability to demonstrate passion, enthusiasm and support for the mission and values of the YMCA. Ability to create a culture of serving the population and staff within the Housing & Social Responsibility department. Ability to work closely with other employees and team members to ensure a positive and constructive environment within the program or department and throughout the agency. Flexibility in work schedule when needed, may require holidays, evenings, and weekend work. Must possess a valid New Jersey driver's license and a safe driving record. Certification in First Aid and CPR is desired. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Sufficient strength, agility, and mobility to perform essential functions and to supervise program activities in a wide variety of indoor and outdoor locations (depending upon the programs). Benefits: Health insurance Dental insurance Life insurance Vision insurance Retirement plan 401(k) Paid time off Employee assistance program Work Location: In person The YMCA of Newark and Vicinity is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Upon request, reasonable accommodation is available that does not create an undue hardship on the Y's business, in accordance with applicable laws.

Created: 2024-10-29