Job Description
Job Description
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).
Department Overview
The Supportive Housing Program provides permanent and affordable supportive housing to individuals with psychiatric disabilities 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.
Position Overview
The Harm Reduction Specialist provides engagement and support services, particularly to tenants engaging in risky behaviors such as drug and alcohol misuse, unsafe sexual practices, and self-harm, using a harm reduction model. The emphasis is on meeting individuals “where they are at” and providing non-judgmental, non-coercive services and resources to individuals engaging in risky behaviors. In addition, the Harm Reduction Specialist/Educator/Coordinator provides consultation, training, and support to program staff in their work with tenants engaging in risky behaviors. The intention is that the Harm Reduction Specialist will be a leader in forwarding Community Access’ commitment to providing services using a harm reduction model.
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.
- Three to five years experience working with substance abuse and psychiatric disabilities
- Thorough understanding of harm reduction.
- Commitment to recovery-oriented practice.
- Must be fingerprinted and cleared by the Office of Mental Health (OMH).
- Skill in articulating program goals.
- 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.
- Bilingual Spanish-speaking, preferred. Ability to speak other relevant languages, dependent upon specific needs of tenants.
Bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.
Interested candidates should apply on www.communityaccess.org/jobs.
Community Access is an Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/D/V.
Women, People of Color and Members of the LGBT community are strongly encouraged to apply.
We are dedicated to a workforce where at least 51% of our employees identify as having a personal experience using mental health services. www.communityaccess.org