Independent Living Specialist - HomePlus Bronx

Responsible for all aspects of assigned caseload of single men and women who are entering housing after being homeless. Clients will have a mental health diagnosis (SPMI) and/or substance use disorder. Assist with the intake and admission process, application and re-certification of entitlements, develop and update service plans, maintain chart documentation, provide supportive counseling, plan and facilitate support groups, teach and assist with activities of daily living, assist clients with money management and be involved in collection of clients' rent, assist with recreational activities, provide linkages and referrals to community resources such as medical, mental health and/or substance abuse services as needed. Utilize a harm reduction approach and motivational interviewing techniques with clients, Make regular visits to client apartments to ensure a safe and secure environment in compliance with City guidelines. Participate in community meetings and interdisciplinary team meetings. Be on call during off-hours. Participate in BRC approved trainings. Provide emergency first aid/CPR assistance when needed. Reports to Program Supervisor.

Full time, 37.5 hours per week

• Monday - Friday; 9:00am-5:30pm

Preferred qualifications: BA required. A minimum of one year experience working with the homeless, addicted and/or mentally ill population preferred. Driver's license preferred, bilingual a plus. Basic computer literacy required. CPR training certification or willingness to take training class in CPR.

Alternate qualifications: HS Diploma and at least two years experience working with the homeless and/or mentally ill. Driver's license preferred, bilingual a plus. Basic computer literacy required. CPR training certification or willingness to take training class in CPR.

BRC maintains 456 supported apartments throughout the Bronx, Brooklyn and Manhattan through the HomePlus program. These apartments are dedicated for formerly homeless individuals with a history of mental illness and/or substance abuse, and are funded by a variety of state and city mental health agencies, including the NYS Office of Mental Health, the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, and the NYS Office of Alcohol and Substance Abuse Services. BRC’s HomePlus operations have grown significantly in recent years, including 90 units for seriously mentally ill and/or substance using unsheltered homeless individuals that were brought on line in 2020 and 2021.