Tenant Activity Specialist (West 140th)

Intro/Program Description: Goddard Riverside’s West 140^th also provides affordable, permanent supportive housing for 48 previously homeless adults of whom have mental illness, substance use, and other co-occurring disorders. Both provides on-site services including case management, entitlement assistance, medical and psychiatric care, substance use counseling, group activities, recreation, and 24 hour/7 day per week front desk security.

 

Purpose of Position: The Tenant Activity Specialist is expected to plan and lead assigned activity groups using a strengths-based, client-centered approach to support social support, inclusion, skill development, wellness, and recreation to reduce social isolation, to support the rehabilitation services provided and promote community among tenants and maintain permanent housing.

 

Schedule: 10:00a- 6:00p

Salary Range: $44,172.00- $51,000

 

Roles, Responsibilities, and Essential Duties

1. Group Work

• Develop and implement group curricula that promote inclusion, wellness, education, recreation, and skill building based on tenant interests and needs.
• Facilitate therapeutic activity groups such as cooking, laundry, and daily living skills that promote independence and community within the building.
• Create and maintain a program schedule and calendar of activities, events, and trips.
• Facilitate monthly tenant advocacy meetings and incorporate feedback into programming.
• Coordinate recreational events, cultural outings, and community trips to encourage socialization, inclusion, and reduce isolation.
• Partner with outside providers (e.g., CASAC, psychotherapist, nutritionist, nurse, blood pressure monitor) to deliver wellness and health education groups.
• Coordinate outdoor and seasonal activities (e.g., gardening, cookouts).
• Prepare and serve nutritious meals for program participants when required.
• Provide escorts in the community to support wellness, independence, and housing stability.
• Offer groups that promote training, education, and vocational readiness.
• Foster opportunities for tenants to strengthen social relationships and community engagement.
• Collaborate with the Social Service Team and Case Managers to ensure programming aligns with tenant goals and service plans.

2. Case Management

• Carry a small caseload of tenants, providing direct support in maintaining housing stability.
• Assist tenants in procuring and maintaining entitlements, medical and psychiatric treatment, and community resources.
• Escort tenants to health, housing, and benefit-related appointments as needed.
• Provide ongoing emotional support and crisis intervention when necessary.
• Collaborate with tenants to set goals, monitor progress, and adjust service plans accordingly.

3. Documentation & Compliance

• Complete all required documentation in a timely manner in accordance with agency policies and funding source requirements.
• Maintain accurate records of tenant participation in groups, case management notes, progress, and incidents.
• Ensure compliance with confidentiality standards, HIPAA, and agency protocols.
• Participate in audits, reviews, and quality assurance processes as required.

4. Collaboration & Teamwork

• Work as part of the interdisciplinary Social Service Team to ensure coordinated, comprehensive services.
• Participate in case conferences, staff meetings, and trainings.
• Communicate effectively with colleagues, tenants, and outside providers to support tenant progress.
• Support new staff and interns as needed.

5. General Responsibilities

• Promote a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all tenants and staff.
• Support tenants in developing and improving daily living, coping, and social skills.
• Assist with crisis prevention and intervention to ensure tenant and community safety.
• Uphold all agency policies, procedures, and standards of practice.
• Perform other duties as assigned to ensure the provision of high-quality social, recreational, and educational services.

Qualifications & Educational Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent required; Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Counseling, Education, Psychology, or a related field preferred
• CASAC (Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor) certification preferred, particularly for candidates with a Bachelor’s Degree
• Experience working with homeless or formerly homeless individuals preferred
• Experience supporting individuals with severe and persistent mental illness, substance use disorders, and/or co-occurring disorders preferred
• Experience developing, implementing, and facilitating group sessions strongly preferred
• Must be able to obtain a New York State Food Handler’s License within 6 months of employment

Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (verbal & written).
• Strong organizational skills with creativity and flexibility.
• Ability to engage clients effectively and build rapport.
• Understanding of Housing First philosophy.
• Team-oriented with strong problem-solving skills.

Computer Skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Outlook and Excel.
• Ability to use or learn databases such as AWARDS.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to walk, climb stairs, and travel with clients throughout the city.
• Able to lift 30–50 lbs as needed.
• Alternate between standing and sitting.
• Prepare and serve healthy meals.

 

Work Environment

• Primarily office-based with regular visits to client apartments and some community travel.
• Goddard Riverside and Isaacs Center follow CDC and NYS COVID-19 guidelines. All new hires are required to be fully vaccinated unless they have a qualified exemption.

The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of duties and responsibilities that will be required of this position and title and shall not be construed as a declaration of the specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position. Employees may be requested to perform job related task other than those specifically presented in this description. This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.