Older Adults Specialist (Long Island City YMCA)

The YMCA of Greater New York is here for all New Yorkers – to empower youth, improve health, and strengthen community. Founded in 1852, today the Y serves a diverse population of more than half a million New Yorkers who learn, grow, and thrive through programs and services at our 24 branches. Community is the cornerstone of the Y. Together, we connect active, engaged New Yorkers to build stronger communities.

To help fulfill our mission, we cultivate a culture of learning, leading, and collaboration to enhance community impact. Through our talented staff and “LEAP” career framework (Leadership, Empowerment, Accountability, Personal Growth), we are committed to a people-first approach that fosters trust, inclusion, growth, and development for all.

The Long Island City YMCA is seeking an Older Adults Specialist. Under the supervision of the Executive Director, the Older Adults Specialist will play a critical role in the successful operation of our Caring for Caregivers Program onsite at the Long Island City YMCA. They will be responsible for providing a safe, welcoming environment for adults, primarily seniors, providing them opportunities to manage caregiver burnout, gain resources, discuss challenges with others in similar situations, connect socially in an emotionally safe space, and practice mental health activities to develop mindfulness and manage stress. The Older Adults Specialist will work one-on-one with participants and lead and run the groups if needed.

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensure the health, safety, and well-being of participants in the program by providing appropriate supervision at all times. Understand, maintain, and ensure that participants follow the YMCA Risk Management and safety procedures.
• Facilitate groups and workshops based on the expressed needs and interests of participants to improve their well-being and relationships with their loved ones, organize special events with guest speakers, presenters, and social activities.
• Work with the Fund Development team to complete the end-of-year funding report.
• Build connections with Linkages and local health & human services agencies providing resources for this age group and their needs.
• Maintain accurate program documentation (marketing materials, agreements, intake/registration forms, attendance sheets, case notes, and incident reports, as appropriate).
• Work with the Research and Evaluation team to implement program surveys.
• Actively participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and branch events.
• Act as the participant’s advocate to coordinate required services, resolve emergency problems in crisis situations, and connect to the community.
• Guide participants and clients in developing skills and strategies for dealing with their problems or overcoming challenges/obstacles.
• Conduct intake and assessments of potential participants and develop individual service plans to ensure the success and implementation of case management.
• Meet with participants in groups, as per the schedule, facilitate group activities specific to older adults, and organize resources and services with local hospitals.
• Assist in the recruitment of new participants for other cohorts.
• Adhere to all YMCA of Greater New York Policies, standards, and expectations.

Desired Skills & Experience:

• MSW, MA Counseling, MA Psychology, and/or relevant Ph.D. required.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience working with older adults in case management and small groups.
• First Aid/ CPR/ AED Certification required.
• Group Exercise Certification desired.
• Must be available to work weekdays, mid-morning to early afternoon. Occasional weekends needed for special events or activities.

Benefits:

The YMCA of Greater New York offers a variety of benefits to its staff members, including retirement benefits, medical benefits, paid time off, free YMCA membership, and more! Benefit eligibility is determined by an individual’s employment status (i.e., full-time or part-time), tenure, and/or the number of hours scheduled to work. Click here for more information.

How to Apply:

If you would like to be a member of our dynamic team, please complete our online application and submit your résumé and a thoughtful cover letter that explains your interest in the role and our organization.