Position Title: Family Shelter Family Support Specialist

Reports to: Family Shelter Program Director

Exempt/Non-Exempt Status: Non-Exempt

JOB SUMMARY:
The Family Support Specialist is responsible for planning, organizing and facilitating a variety of engaging activities and programs for families experiencing homelessness. This role also acts as an advocate for families in the shelter and works alongside shelter staff and management to ensure families have what they need for a successful placement.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Develop a diverse schedule of activities and programs suitable for families with children of all ages. Examples include arts and crafts, educational games, and special events.
• Coordinate logistics for activities and special events, including scheduling, set up and clean up. Ensure activities are conducted in a safe and welcoming environment.
• Encourage active participation from shelter residents in activities and programs.
• Work closely with shelter staff, volunteers and community partners to coordinate special events and activities. Collaborate with local organizations, businesses and volunteers to expand activity offerings.
• Facilitate workshops and individual sessions for parents and caregivers on topics such as parenting, child development and communication. Solicit feedback on workshops that are relevant and engaging for shelter residents.
• Ensure communication bulletin boards are kept refreshed and up to date with relevant information, including community resources and activities.
• Collaborate with the case management and management team to advocate on behalf of Work collaboratively with other staff members, including case managers to ensure coordinated and holistic support for families and children. Participate in team meetings, training sessions and staff development activities.
• Assist shelter workers, case managers, intake coordinators and other staff with responsibilities as needs arise to ensure a safe and successful shelter program.
• Other duties as requested to benefit client and programs

EDUCATION & QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

• Associates degree or 3 years’ experience in Human Services
• Strong understanding of working with families, trauma informed care and best practices in working with vulnerable populations
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and organizational skills
• Strong computer skills are required. Strong working knowledge of Excel, Word and other key computer programs.
• Valid Driver’s License with good driving record

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

The physical demands and working conditions described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Performing the duties of this job require occasional walking and standing in and around the office. Must be able to occasionally lift loads of 30 pounds without assistance and the ability to sit, talk and hear is required. The ability to climb stairs is essential.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions are exposed to communicable diseases and are required to function around behavioral concerns.

The majority of essential duties are performed indoors, in a normal office environment. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. The employee may be asked to travel between sites or transport participates and may be exposed to outdoor elements.

RESPONSIBILITY OF OTHERS:

The employee has no direct responsibility/supervision of other staff.

LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER:

The above is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position.

Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor in compliance with Federal and State Laws.

Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities. To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Continued employment remains on an “at-will” basis.

EEO POLICY STATEMENT:

VOAUPNY is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer committed to maintaining a non-discriminatory, diverse work environment. In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals, employment decisions at VOAUPNY will be based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. VOAUPNY does not unlawfully discriminate in employment opportunities or practices based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, status as a covered veteran or any other protected characteristic in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, transfer, training, and access to benefits, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

EDUCATION & QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

• Associates degree or 3 years’ experience in Human Services
• Strong understanding of working with families, trauma informed care and best practices in working with vulnerable populations
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and organizational skills
• Strong computer skills are required. Strong working knowledge of Excel, Word and other key computer programs.
• Valid Driver’s License with good driving record