Community Support Specialist will report directly to Program Coordinator.
Position entails traveling to Riker’s Island at a minimum of three times per week to facilitate groups and individual sessions depending on the needs of the Department of Corrections and the program.
Facilitate life skills curriculum-based sessions in various facilities and housing areas on Riker’s Island to emerging adults in custody, including but not limited to job readiness, career development, employment skills, resume building, cover letters and interview preparation.
Responsible for assisting Therapeutic Case Managers with client goals and Including attending court, community appointments, referral and connection to post-release services.
Responsible for timely and accurate data entry (groups and individuals) for all Therapeutic Case Managers in assigned team. Ensure documents received are completed accurately and work collaboratively with PC to identify any problematic areas
Conduct lessons on English as a Second Language (ESL): Develop and deliver lesson plans to individuals in custody, focusing on reading, writing, and speaking the English language.
Translation Services: Provide translation to and for clients who are unable to speak English.
Assist Therapeutic Case Managers regarding client outcomes and
Development and completion of DOC Transition plans for Spanish-speaking clients.
Establish and maintain strategic partnerships with community partners and attend internal and external meetings that focus on outcomes.
Ability to recognize problematic behaviors, while cultivating empathy, solving problems, and delivering the required coping skills to emerging adults.
Use motivational interviewing techniques to optimize engagement and enable change through identification of emerging adult goals.
Perform other duties as assigned. This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities.
35 hours a work week; Flexibility for evening and weekend coverage.
High School Diploma minimum with at least 3 to 5 years of experience with emerging adults ages 18-21 in a social service setting. AA in Human Services preferred.
Ability to secure and maintain a Department of Corrections Volunteer Identification Card and work within the constraints of facility guidelines. Including lock downs and personal screenings, this can be changed at the discretion of the Department of Correction.
Knowledge of various methods of teaching English to non-native speakers.
Fluent in English and Spanish (proficient in both written and verbal communication).
Excellent Microsoft Office and Database skills.
ESL or TESOL certification is a plus!
Good verbal and written communication skills required.