Independent Living Specialist

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES: Responsible for all aspects of assigned caseload of single men and women who are entering housing after being homeless. Clients will have a mental health diagnosis (SPMI) and/or substance use disorder. Assist with the intake and admission process, application and re-certification of entitlements, develop and update service plans, maintain chart documentation, provide supportive counseling, plan and facilitate support groups, teach and assist with activities of daily living, assist clients with money management and be involved in collection of clients' rent, assist with recreational activities, provide linkages and referrals to community resources such as medical, mental health and/or substance abuse services as needed. Utilize a harm reduction approach and motivational interviewing techniques with clients, Make regular visits to client apartments to ensure a safe and secure environment in compliance with City guidelines. Participate in community meetings and interdisciplinary team meetings. Be on call during off-hours. Participate in BRC approved trainings. Provide emergency first aid/CPR assistance when needed. Reports to Program Supervisor. LOCATION: Bronx, NY HOURS: Full time, 37.5 hours per week Monday - Friday; 9:00am-5:30pm QUALIFICATIONS: Preferred qualifications: BA required. A minimum of one year experience working with the homeless, addicted and/or mentally ill population preferred. Driver's license preferred, bilingual a plus. Basic computer literacy required. CPR training certification or willingness to take training class in CPR. Alternate qualifications: HS Diploma and at least two years experience working with the homeless and/or mentally ill. Driver's license preferred, bilingual a plus. Basic computer literacy required. CPR training certification or willingness to take training class in CPR. *Vaccination preferred but not requiredMAKE AN IMPACT Are you looking to make a positive impact on the lives of those in your community? At BRC, our staff help New Yorkers experiencing homelessness reclaim their lives by providing a hand up, offering opportunities for health and self-sufficiency, and restoring hope and dignity. Each and every BRC staff member makes heroic contributions to our city, providing vital services in times of crisis and need. Through our commitment to employee wellbeing and development, BRC provides a workplace where staff can achieve their goals, make a difference with our clients, and grow personally and professionally. Today, we have over 1000 full-time, part-time, and per-diem positions located in Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx and Queens. Come and learn why 95% of BRC employees report that they would recommend BRC as a good place to work, and join us in building a more caring and compassionate city. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: BRC maintains 456 supported apartments throughout the Bronx, Brooklyn and Manhattan through the HomePlus program. These apartments are dedicated for formerly homeless individuals with a history of mental illness and/or substance abuse, and are funded by a variety of state and city mental health agencies, including the NYS Office of Mental Health, the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, and the NYS Office of Alcohol and Substance Abuse Services. BRC's HomePlus operations have grown significantly in recent years, including 90 units for seriously mentally ill and/or substance using unsheltered homeless individuals that were brought on line in 2020 and 2021. BENEFITS BRC takes the health, safety, and wellbeing of our employees seriously. Employees are eligible for health insurance and paid sick time benefits immediately upon starting work. In addition, full time employees receive a generous benefits package, including: Competitive health and dental plans, with coverage is available for your spouse, domestic partner, and dependents. A minimum of 3 weeks paid vacation, 12 paid holidays, and additional paid sick and personal time. A 403(b) pension plan with a matching benefit paid by BRC. Tuition assistance and many training opportunities for career development. Flexible spending accounts (FSAs) are available so employees can set aside pre-tax dollars for healthcare, transit and childcare.