Senior Citizens Advocate

Founded in 1974, Community Access continues to uphold and operate as a pioneer of supportive housing and social services in NYC for people with mental health concerns. We proudly lead advocacy efforts that rally our community to promote human rights, social justice, and economic opportunities for all. We are built upon the simple truth that people are experts in their own lives. Our programs are spread across 25 locations and include over 1200 units of supportive housing in three boroughs, the Howie the Harp Advocacy Center, Peer-driven Crisis Respite Center, Adult Home Initiative, Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) and the Intensive Mobile Team (IMT).

Program/Department Description

The Supportive Housing Program provides permanent and affordable supportive housing to individuals with psychiatric disabilities, children and families, and low-income community residents. Each tenant in the program holds his or her own lease and is protected by all the statutes that apply to any New York City tenant living in a rent-stabilized apartment.

Overview

The Senior Citizen Advocate provides support services as defined by regulatory contracts and Community Access guidelines to assigned program participants including assisting with defining personal, vocational and educational goals. The Senior Citizen Advocate also provides assistance to program participants using a person-centered model that supports individuals in their recovery, hopes and opportunities.

• Job Qualifications
• Have an understanding, appreciation, and commitment to the philosophy and mission of Community Access.
• Minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent (GED) – Bachelor’s degree, preferred.
• Commitment to recovery-oriented practice.
• Must be cleared through CA Background check process (Justice Center, OCFS, etc.)
• Bilingual Spanish-speaking, preferred. Ability to speak other relevant languages, dependent upon specific needs of tenants.
• Be skilled in conflict mediation/negotiation and have an assertive approach to problem solving.
• Demonstrated leadership skills and ability to work as part of a team.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to utilize various computer programs, specifically Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Be creative and flexible.
• Show initiative and be responsible for follow through.
• Ability to maintain confidential information, as related to position.