Full-Time Family Support Specialist

New Alternatives for Children, Inc. (NAC) is an award-winning not-for-profit agency in Midtown Manhattan, with a satellite Bronx office, dedicated to serving children and families with medical complexities, chronic illnesses, and disabilities throughout the five boroughs. To assist in achieving this mission, NAC is currently seeking a Family Support Specialist to join its Family Support Service Department.

The Family Support Specialist supports the agency by helping to manage infants to adolescents that are participating in all program related activities. Additional responsibilities include supervising family visits in the Foster Care Program; and supporting diversified recreation activities, groups and special events. S/he will become familiar and knowledgeable about the organization, the function of each department, and related policies and procedures. This position supports N.A.C.’s mission to provide the highest quality of care by complying with regulatory guidelines and meeting child welfare industry standards.        

• Title of Position: Family Support Specialist
• Position Type: Full-time
• Locations:  825 7th Ave, New York, NY 10019 |  1775 Grand Concourse, Suite 703 | Bronx, NY 10453
• Program: Family Support Service Department
• Report To: Assistant Director of Family Support

Description of Responsibilities:

• Report to office to support the Family Support Department with all daily tasks
• Supervise children and families during Foster Care visits.
• Appropriately and consistently document and otherwise communicate feedback regarding family visits and recreation activities.
• Assist in managing children who have difficult behaviors (including individuals with autism) and all of its related activities.
• May be asked to assist recreation staff with planning and overseeing trips, groups and special events.
• Ensure that appropriate written records are kept about trips, activities and services. Performs additional responsibilities in accordance with agency needs.
• Support all in office requests, which will include the organization and data collection of donations (clothing and toy drives), supporting N.A.C.’s food pantry, etc.
• In the future, will be expected to support after school program which may include: homework help, light snacks, provide developmentally appropriate activities, etc.
• Performs additional responsibilities in accordance with agency needs.

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Psychology, Social Work, Human Services or other relevant field preferred.
• Must have experience working with children- particularly those with developmental delays, nonverbal, and/or individuals with autism is a plus.
• Familiarity with the diverse recreational opportunities that exist in New York City.
• Individuals with interest in servicing clients in the social services industry, clients in low SES (Socioeconomic status) and a passion to serve kids.
• Ability and willingness to work a flexible schedule – particularly evenings and Saturdays.  

Preferred Education and Experience:

• Ability to communicate in Spanish is a plus.
• Prior experience in working with children in the child welfare system
• Experience working with children with disabilities or medical conditions, and their families.
• Familiarity with the diverse recreational opportunities that exist in New York City.
• CPR and first aid training are required prior to or immediately following employment.