Position: Activities of Daily Living Specialist

Classification: Full-time or Part-Time

Reports to: Program Director, NCS Residence

Work location/Schedule: Upper East Side, Onsite

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. To learn more about our work, please visit www.ncsinc.org.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Activities of Daily Living (ADL) Specialist at Neighborhood Coalition for Shelter (NCS) plays a critical role in supporting formerly homeless individuals in developing the skills necessary to achieve greater independence and stability. This position focuses on providing trauma-informed, client-centered assistance to individuals in areas such as personal care, household management, and community integration. The ADL Specialist works closely with clients, case managers, and other interdisciplinary teams to create and implement individualized plans that promote self-sufficiency, dignity, and overall well-being. In addition to life skills training, the ADL Specialist helps clients access community resources, navigate social service systems, and maintain a safe and supportive living environment. The ADL Specialist is committed to empowering clients to live independently and fostering long-term stability through compassionate support and advocacy.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Uphold the principles of confidentiality, respect, and dignity in all interactions, adhering to NCS’s organizational and professional standards.

• Facilitate one-on-one or group training in key life skills such as personal hygiene, managing household chores, and maintaining a safe living environment.

• Work collaboratively with clients to build confidence, foster self-sufficiency and independence in performing daily living activities.

• Partner with case managers and other NCS staff to ensure that ADL services are integrated into client service plans.

• Educate clients on maintaining a safe living space, including the proper use of household tools, emergency preparedness, and healthy lifestyle choices.

• Assist clients in building connections with local community programs, services, and activities to enhance their social support network and foster a sense of belonging.

• Act as a client advocate, ensuring their needs are met and help them navigate obstacles to achieving independence and stability.

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

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Be hands-on and able to assist clients with cleaning and maintaining their living space.

• Strong understanding of activities of daily living, life skills development, and strategies to promote independence.

• Knowledge of trauma-informed practices and their application in supporting vulnerable populations.

• Ability to respond effectively to crises, de-escalate situations, and provide immediate emotional support.

• Awareness of and sensitivity to cultural, socioeconomic, and individual differences, with the ability to tailor approaches accordingly.

• Proficiency in teaching and modeling skills related to personal care, household management, and community integration.

• Ability to work effectively with interdisciplinary teams, including case managers and other support staff.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to explain concepts clearly to clients and maintain accurate documentation.

• Ability to manage time effectively, prioritize tasks, and maintain thorough records in compliance with organizational policies.

• A compassionate, patient approach to working with clients who may face significant challenges and barriers.

• Flexibility to adjust methods and approaches based on client needs and changing circumstances.

• Ability to identify challenges and develop creative, practical solutions to support client progress.

• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality, upholding professional standards, and respecting clients’ autonomy and dignity.

• Familiarity with basic computer programs, electronic record-keeping systems, and other tools used for documentation and communication.

Education and Experience/Training:

• Education:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.

  • Equivalent life or professional experience may substitute for formal education requirements.

  • Additional training, certifications, or coursework in social work, human services, psychology, or a related field is preferred but not required.

• · Experience/Training:

  • Relevant experience in human services, social work, or related fields is preferred; this can include paid, volunteer, or lived experience.

  • Experience providing life skills training, support services, or case management is advantageous but not mandatory.

  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse populations, including individuals from various cultural, socioeconomic, and educational backgrounds.

  • Familiarity with trauma-informed care practices and the ability to engage with individuals facing complex challenges is a plus.

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 potential employees

• Successfully complete a background screening process that includes fingerprinting prior to employment. 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.

Pay rate/range: $18 - $20 per hour

Final pay rate 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 comprehensive benefits package including a collaborative team; medical, dental and vision insurance plans; paid time off: vacation, sick, personal days; paid holidays; 403 (b) retirement plan; disability; life insurance, and more.

HOW TO APPLY:

Thank you in advance for your interest in this vacancy. We look forward to reviewing your material. As expressed interest in the role, please submit a cover letter, a copy of your resume, and if requested in the post, other document(s) to search@ncsinc.org

Equal Opportunity Employer

NCS 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.