Position: Program Assistant
Department: Housing Department
Location(s): Bronx
Reports To: HOME+ Program Manager
Classification: Full Time – Non-Exempt
Work Model: Hybrid
Compensation: $30.22/hour
# of Positions: 1
The Violence Intervention Program, Inc. (VIP) is the only culturally specific non-profit organization in New York City serving Latinx survivors of domestic and sexual violence, the vast majority of whom are immigrants. Founded as a grassroots response to intimate partner violence and sexual assault, VIP has consistently centered survivors in its leadership and fostered a staff community that reflects the rich national, ethnic, and racial diversity of the communities it serves. Today, VIP operates two community-based programs serving the Bronx, Manhattan, and Queens; four housing programs, including two shelters, Rapid Re-Housing, and Home+; a bilingual helpline; and innovative programs focused on economic justice, sexual violence, restorative justice, and child and adolescent services.
Home+/ Home Plus play a critical role in supporting survivors of domestic violence by helping them remain safely in their homes and access essential emergency supports. This position combines the responsibilities of the HOME+ Case Manager + all Emergency Assistance with management of flex funds, food vouchers, and emergency assistance navigation.
The Program Assistant provides management, coordinates home safety interventions (e.g.,, lock changes, security systems), manages applications and disbursement for emergency funds, and connects clients to additional supportive services. The ideal candidate is organized, bilingual, and passionate about ensuring survivor safety and stability through practical, client-centered support.
Essential Functions:
- Conduct Case Management & HOME+ Services, including emergency assistance intake and needs assessments with clients
- Develop individualized service plans using a strengthsbased, trauma-informed approach.
- Coordinate and follow up on HOME+ services, including:
- Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) installations.
- Home safety repairs (e.g., locks, windows, doors).
- Flex Fund disbursements related to housing stability.
- Serve as liaison between clients and vendors (PERS and home repair) to ensure services are timely and effective.
- Collaborate with the Mayor’s Office to End Domestic and Gender-Based Violence (ENDGBV), NYC Family Justice Centers, and partner agencies to receive referrals and provide coordinated care through Flex Funds Applications.
- Conduct outreach and educational presentations to promote HOME+ and increase community awareness and referrals.
- Assist in delivering training to PERS/home repair vendors on domestic violence and trauma-informed approaches.
- Maintain proper documentation, including case notes, reports, alarm activations, and vendor service records.
- Flex Funds & Emergency Assistance Coordination: Assess client eligibility and need for emergency resources, including flex funds, food vouchers, and other short-term supports.
- Track and monitor flex fund disbursements and food voucher inventory, ensuring compliance with funding guidelines.
- Maintain accurate records for all applications, disbursements, and client outcomes using appropriate databases and tracking systems.
- Provide information, referrals, and advocacy for additional emergency supports (e.g., SNAP, rent/utility aid, food pantries).
- Coordinate with internal program teams to prioritize urgent cases and support holistic care.
- Identify service barriers or funding gaps and report findings to supervisors for program improvement.
- Collect and report data to HRA, ENDGBV, and internal stakeholders as required.
- Collaborate with City-contracted researchers to support program evaluation.
- Participate in regular meetings, trainings, and supervision sessions to ensure high-quality service delivery.
Requirements:
- BSW, BA, or equivalent experience in human services, social work, or related field.
- Fully bilingual (English/Spanish – verbal and written) required.
- Minimum of 2 years’ experience in case management, emergency assistance coordination, or advocacy in domestic violence or related field.
- Knowledge of NYC public benefit systems (e.g., SNAP, HRA) and emergency support services.
- Strong communication, organizational, and documentation skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, databases, and client tracking systems.
- Commitment to trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and survivor-centered services.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.
- Must maintain agency, program, and client confidentiality and adhere to mandated reporting requirements.
- Must be available for flexible scheduling, including occasional evenings or weekends, based on client and program needs.