Who We Are
The Marks JCH of Bensonhurst, known as the JCH, is a center of community life in Brooklyn, rooted in Jewish values and fostering an inclusive environment. We help at every life stage, providing critical services that lift people out of poverty, as well as innovative programing that educates and inspires our community members. The Marks JCH is a full-scale human service agency, providing social services, older adult services, resettlement support, job placement in addition to being a Jewish community center offering children’s, youth, family, and cultural programs. Marks JCH prides itself on its 360-degree holistic service model, providing services for the whole family, meeting the needs of low- and moderate-income New Yorkers, specializing in helping refugees and immigrants.
Position Summary:
As our population ages, the need for professionals dedicated to the well-being and quality of life of older adults continues to grow. Marks JCH remains committed to serving émigré older adults, including Holocaust Survivors and other Russian-speaking seniors. We are seeking a culturally and linguistically competent Lead Geriatric Social Worker to deliver best practices in older adult care using the evidence-based 4Ms approach — What Matters, Medication, Mentation, and Mobility.
This individual will:
- Provide direct support to older adults and their families,
- Train colleagues and MSW students in navigating healthcare services and implementing preventative health programs, and
- Develop community partnerships to offer clients a holistic support system.
The ideal candidate is highly organized, empathetic, nonjudgmental, and deeply committed to improving the lives of older adults.
Responsibilities:
Working collaboratively with a team of case managers and intake workers, you will:
- Develop and implement individualized care plans with a focus on healthy aging
- Coordinate services including healthcare, housing, and legal assistance
- Assist clients in navigating Medicare, Medicaid, and other benefit programs
- Promote social, educational, and recreational activities for older adults
- Onboard and supervise MSW student interns
- Facilitate support groups for seniors and caregivers to educate and empower families
- Conduct home visits to assess and monitor client well-being
- Establish a referral network for counseling and emotional support services
- Build and maintain relationships with medical professionals and service providers
- Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of care plans and revise as needed
- Maintain accurate client records and documentation in a timely manner
- Advocate for the rights and needs of seniors within the community and at partner sites
Qualifications & Skills
- Master’s degree in Social Work, with a concentration in geriatrics (LMSW preferred)
- SIFI certification or willingness to obtain
- Prior experience in geriatric social work or working with elderly populations
- Strong knowledge of aging-related health issues and social determinants of health
- Familiarity with NYS social service systems, benefits, and regulations
- Demonstrated ability to develop and manage care plans
- Empathetic, patient, and respectful approach to client interactions
- Excellent organizational, communication, and documentation skills
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
- Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills
- Commitment to ongoing professional development in geriatric social work
- Fluency in Russian is required
This is an exempt position, and candidates can expect an annual salary between $68,500 - $75,000, commensurate with skills and experience. Marks JCH is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate qualified candidates on basis of race, religion, political association, ancestry, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, socioeconomic class, or other protected status.