Position: Activities Specialist

Classification: Full-time, Non-exempt

Reports to: Program Director

Schedule: Hybrid: 4 days onsite; 1 day remote

Work location: Bronx

About Us:

Neighborhood Coalition for Shelter (NCS) helps New Yorkers who have a history of homelessness, often compounded by mental illness or substance use, to achieve their highest level of independence. We were established in 1982 by faith and community leaders on Manhattan’s Upper East Side who believed that homelessness is the responsibility of the entire community. More than 40 years later, we are still guided by the principle that neighbors should help neighbors.

Today, NCS offers an array of groundbreaking housing and supportive services, including counseling, substance use treatment, vocational and educational programs, and employment support, and we are poised for further growth.

NCS provides New Yorkers who are homeless or at risk of homelessness with a home, a community, and access to the services that they need to thrive.

Job Summary:

Louis Nine House (LNH), located in the Bronx, provides 46 studio apartments for young adults aged 18-25 who are homeless or have aged out of foster care. Many of our residents have faced numerous foster care placements, experienced emotional trauma, neglect, or abuse, and may struggle with mental health challenges and substance use.

We provide affordable housing, and a comprehensive range of support services designed to help young adults achieve stability, maintain sobriety, and work towards self-sufficiency, enabling them to secure and sustain permanent housing and independence. Through case management, onsite psychiatric services, and our vocational and educational programs, residents receive the support they need to advance their personal development, pursue education, explore career interests, acquire vocational skills, and secure employment.

The Activities Specialist is focused on enhancing the quality of life for residents through various programs and activities. responsible for planning, organizing, and implementing a variety of recreational, educational, and social activities for residents in a secured housing environment. The goal is to promote community engagement, personal development, and overall well-being.

Responsibilities:

• Design and implement a diverse range of activities, including arts and crafts, fitness programs, educational workshops, and social events.

• Encourage resident participation and gather feedback to tailor activities to their interests and needs.

• Work with other staff members, volunteers, and community partners to coordinate and enhance program offerings.

• Manage the budget for activities, ensuring cost-effective use of resources and materials.

• Maintain accurate records of activities, attendance, and resident feedback to evaluate program effectiveness.

• Ensure all activities are conducted in a safe manner and comply with organizational policies and regulations.

• Perform other job-related duties as assigned as needed.

Qualifications:

• Previous experience in activity planning, especially in a nonprofit or secured housing setting, is highly desirable.

• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Ability to understand and respond to the needs of residents.

• Innovative in designing engaging and meaningful activities.

• Capable of working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and with varying needs.

• A degree in recreation, social work, psychology, or a related field is preferred.

Additional requirements:

NCS is committed to maintaining a safe and secure workplace for our employees and clients. Please be advised that regulatory agencies mandate all newly hired employees

• Successfully complete a background screening process that includes fingerprinting prior to start date. A section of the background screen requires address history for the last 28 years.

• Are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. If you are selected for the position, proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 will be required as part of the onboarding process.

Salary range: $45,000 - $50,000

Final salary will be determined based on various factors which may include internal equity, work experience, skills, knowledge, and/or education and/or certifications.

BENEFITS:

NCS offers a collegial work environment, and a generous benefits package including medical, dental and vision insurance, paid vacation, sick days, paid holidays, 403 (b) retirement plan, disability, life insurance, and more.

HOW TO APPLY:

Thank you in advance for taking a look at the list of responsibilities and qualifications. We look forward to reviewing your material. Please send a cover letter and resume to search@ncsinc.org.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Neighborhood Coalition for Shelter is committed to creating a diverse work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. NCS does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, age, disability, parental status, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable laws. We encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply.