Recreation Specialist - Homeless Families
About The Position
The Urban Resource Institute (URI) is seeking a Recreation Specialist for Homeless Families. This role is responsible for program planning and development, including assisting in the planning of cultural and recreational activities within the New York City area to benefit mothers and children. The specialist must coordinate all aspects of program planning, such as site arrangements, transportation, and refreshments, while adhering to the agency's budget. URI is committed to transforming the lives of domestic violence survivors and homeless families through safe shelter and comprehensive services, and actively works for sustainable systemic change. As the oldest licensed provider of domestic violence shelter and services in New York State and the largest provider in the United States, URI also offers shelter and services for homeless families. The organization deeply values diversity, equity, and inclusion across all its sites.
Requirements
- At least three (3) years of experience preferred working with families or women with special needs.
- Demonstrated sensitivity and experience with and/or knowledge of homeless families, including individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and/or HIV-affected, the elderly, and individuals with substance abuse and/or mental health issues.
- Familiarity with DHS regulations and DHS Cares Reporting.
- Capacity to build and sustain relationships with children and their parents using abilities in trust-building, empathy, supportive assistance, and mediation.
- Computer literacy, including knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.
- Excellent written and verbal skills.
Responsibilities
- Coordinate trips outside the facility by working with resource people such as staff, volunteers, mothers, and other service agencies.
- Develop on-site program activities including homework assistance, sports, games, and movies.
- Strengthen informal relationships between parents and children through shared responsibilities and experiences.
- Monitor, assist, and escort families in all activities.
- Provide verbal and written feedback to professional staff to help assess the need for counseling and medical services.
- Maintain a permanent resource file of interesting and affordable activities for children and adults.
- Encourage and assist mothers in coordinating and implementing their own ideas for educational and recreational activities.
- Research appropriate venues via the internet to expand educational and cultural horizons for parents, offering enrichment activities for their children.
- Prepare written reports of all group activities as per agency requirements.
- Collaborate with other departments and agencies to maximize scarce resources.
- Regularly assess the safety and well-being of clients.
- Participate in monthly staff meetings and training seminars to enhance skills.
- Conduct age-appropriate groups for children as needed.
- Perform other tasks as assigned by the Social Work Supervisor and/or Director, Homeless Programs.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Associate degree
Number of Employees
101-250 employees
