Transitional Specialist - Health Services

Title: Transitional Specialist

Unit: Drop-In Center

Reports to: Program Manager

Salary Range: $24.73 - $30.22 [$45,000 - $55,000 annually]

Status: Full Time, Regular, Non-Exempt

Location: In office, based in Harlem, with travel throughout New York City

Position Summary:

Assists HIV+ clients in the transition from discharge from Rikers Island or any NYC DOC Facility to services at the Fortune Society or other social services agency.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct intake processing.
• Confirm /Update existing discharge plan, and/or develop new community re-integration plan.
• Provide emergency basic needs (housing, HRA, Benefits, clothing, etc.).
• Conduct individual counseling sessions utilizing humanistic, client empowerment approach.
• Obtain verification of clients HIV status.
• Provide HIV/AIDS information to clients as needed.
• Conduct follow-up during the first 72 hours of clients release from Rikers Island or any NYC DOC Facility
• Enter progress notes in the agencys proprietary client database.
• Identify external resources for clients.
• Coordinate with client's external service providers as needed.
• Conduct client outreach and Home Visits as needed.
• Respond to callers needing information and referrals.
• Represent Fortune Society with Rikers and Dept. of Correction staff.
• Escort clients to appointments as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Ability to obtain correctional facility clearance and work within the constraints of facility guidelines which can include lock downs, screening of personal items including food and clothing restrictions, which can be changed at the discretion of the Department of Corrections.
• High school diploma or GED/HSE required, some college preferred.
• Experience counseling HIV+ clients on connecting to available services.
• Strong computer skills Microsoft Office and database entry.
• Valid drivers license a plus.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Bi-lingual in English and Spanish a plus.
• We seek talented, dedicated individuals from all walks of life who possess a strong commitment to this mission.
• Relevant personal experience is a plus.

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