NY Connects Social Worker

PSS•Brooklyn, NY

13d•Hybrid

About The Position

Make a difference in the lives of New York City's residents and communities. For over 60 years PSS has performed vital and important work -- through its ten centers and affiliated programs. The agency touches the lives of over 2,000 people each day. As the Community Social Worker, you will be responsible for coordinating supportive services for older adults in one of the many communities that PSS serves. The Social Worker’s role is vital in ensuring effective supportive services are put in place that allows the residents to remain independent, active and to thrive in their home and community. PROGRAM SUMMARY: The NY Connects program provides telephonic support to older adults and individuals with disabilities across the lifespan (from childhood to adulthood) serving as a connection for community members to access long-term services and support. The goal of the program is to ensure community members are able to obtain the information necessary to make informed decisions on their care or the care of a friend, neighbor, client, or loved one. Utilizing a strengths-based approach and respecting the self-determination of the community member, program staff support the community member in achieving their goals in a culturally competent manner. NY Connects is part of the “no wrong door” system across the state, focused on supporting community members regardless of ability to pay and level of need.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree (BSW, BS, BA) level education is required.
English language proficiency (Required).
Experience in health/human/social services, particularly with older adults and individuals with disabilities.
Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook is required.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with attention to detail.
Ability to manage time effectively, prioritize tasks, and work under pressure to meet strict deadlines.
Respect for diversity and cultural differences, with the ability to work collaboratively.
Creative problem-solving skills, especially in crisis situations.
Strong organizational skills and knowledge of community resources.
Ability to travel independently around Brooklyn using public transportation is required.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree in social work is preferred.
Candidates fluent in Spanish, Russian, Mandarin/ Cantonese, or Haitian Creole are encouraged to apply!
Familiarity with Medicare, Social Security, and Human Resources Administration NYC is preferred.

Responsibilities

Provide objective and unbiased information and assistance on long-term care options, services, and supports to community members, professionals, friends, neighbors, and caregivers.
Conduct screenings and assessments to determine programmatic and financial eligibility for various programs, both over the phone and in-person.
Assist with application and enrollment for both publicly funded programs (e.g. Medicaid, SNAP, and HEAP) and privately funded programs.
Conduct home visits to homebound community members, aiding with applying for benefits and entitlements as deemed appropriate and necessary.
Utilize a strength-based, person-centered approach to support aging in place, individual independence, and self-determination.
Respond to individuals in a professional, non-judgmental, and culturally appropriate manner.
Educate community members on benefits and entitlements to aid and support the decision-making process as they explore resources and service options.
Advocate for community members experiencing difficulty navigating governmental and/or community-based organizations.
Support clients with care coordination through various life stages and circumstances (e.g. return home from a long-term care facility such as, hospital, nursing home, or assisted living facility).
Adhere to all NYC Aging Program Standards, maintaining accurate and comprehensive case records on NYC Aging community member database.
Participate in mandated New York State Office for the Aging/Department for the Aging funded trainings and PSS trainings as assigned.
Collaborate with the Program Director in conducting outreach and developing meaningful relationships with community-based organizations across Brooklyn.
Support PSS’ mission by striving for excellence, with a focus on developing positive interpersonal relationships.
Attend all supervision meetings, team meetings, and educational sessions with a willingness to advance professional skills.
Perform other duties as needed or requested.