Recreation Specialist - Homeless Families

Organization Overview

Urban Resource Institute (URI), established in 1980, is a respected and innovative organization dedicated to transforming the lives of domestic violence survivors and homeless families. URI provides safe shelter, comprehensive services, and prevention and intervention programs aimed at breaking cycles of violence and poverty. It is the oldest licensed domestic violence shelter provider in New York State and the largest in the U.S., also offering leading services for homeless families. The organization is deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion across leadership, staff, and clients throughout its residential and nonresidential sites in New York City.

Role Summary

The Recreation Specialist is responsible for planning and coordinating programs and cultural and recreational activities in New York City designed to provide enjoyment and broaden perspectives for mothers and children. This includes overseeing all aspects of program organization such as site selection, transportation, refreshments, and budget management.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and coordinate off-site trips with staff, volunteers, mothers, and partner agencies.
• Develop onsite programs including homework help, sports, games, and movie screenings.
• Encourage informal bonding activities between parents and children.
• Supervise and support families during activities.
• Provide feedback to professional staff to assist in assessing counseling and medical needs.
• Maintain a resource file featuring cost-effective and engaging activities for adults and children.
• Support and encourage mothers to take part in organizing educational and recreational events.
• Conduct research on new venues and activities to enrich educational and cultural experiences for families.
• Prepare written reports on all group activities in line with agency protocols.
• Collaborate with other departments and external agencies to optimize resource utilization.
• Continuously evaluate clients' safety and well-being.
• Participate regularly in staff meetings and training to enhance skills.
• Lead group activities tailored for various child age groups as needed.
• Perform other duties assigned by supervisors in homeless programs.

Education and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree preferred; High School Diploma or GED accepted.
• Minimum of three years' experience working with families or women with special needs is preferred.
• Knowledge and sensitivity to the challenges faced by homeless families, including those identifying as LGBTQ+, elderly, or affected by substance abuse or mental health issues.
• Familiarity with Department of Homeless Services (DHS) policies and DHS Cares Reporting.
• Ability to build trusting and supportive relationships with children and parents using empathy, mediation, and assistance skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and computer literacy.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Physical and Other Requirements

• Work is performed indoors with requirements for hearing, talking, walking, sitting, and manual tasks.
• Occasional lifting or moving of objects up to 10 pounds.
• Tasks require accuracy and repetition.

Additional Information

URI is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace. Candidates from diverse backgrounds and abilities are encouraged to apply. Equal employment opportunities are provided regardless of race, religion, color, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.

Salary

Salary range for this role is $39,000 to $48,348 annually.