Met Council is America’s largest Jewish charity dedicated to serving the needy. We fight poverty through comprehensive social services and by treating each client with compassion, integrity, and respect. Our programs are staffed by experts who help over 325,000 clients each year and advocate on behalf of all needy New Yorkers. Our services include 100% affordable housing at 21 locations, family violence services, Holocaust survivor assistance, geriatric social work, crisis intervention and the largest free kosher food distribution program in the world. Our network of 120 food pantries, affordable housing sites, and JCCs provide services directly in neighborhoods across New York City.

Position Summary:

The Geriatric Social Worker will provide on-site casework and supportive services to older adults residing in Met Council’s inclusionary housing. This role focuses on enhancing residents’ quality of life, promoting independence, and connecting individuals to appropriate long-term support and community resources. Responsibilities include information and referral, care coordination, food access support, and the development of socialization and educational programming.

Please note: This is a grant-funded position currently supported through March 2027, with the potential for extension.

Principal Responsibilities:

• Conduct in-depth assessments of older adults to identify presenting needs, including screenings to identify abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
• Provide social services including information and assistance with accessing community resources, benefits, and services (i.e. medical, legal, long-term care).
• Provide short-term counseling, supportive listening, and problem-solving interventions.
• Support residents in crisis situations, including deescalation, safety planning, and stabilization.
• Assist with applications for emergency food cards and/or financial assistance as needed.
• Conduct outreach to residents who may be isolated or in need of additional support.
• Collaborate with external community agencies, healthcare providers, senior service organizations to connect residents with comprehensive resources and services that enhance wellbeing, independence and quality of life.
• Plan and coordinate educational, recreational, wellness and social programs for residents.
• Build and maintain strong cross-functional partnerships with internal departments to ensure communication and execution of resident-focused initiatives and events.
• Maintain timely and accurate case notes and records in compliance with program standards.
• Additional responsibilities as required.

Competencies:

• Detail oriented and must be able to document all work in client data system in a timely manner
• Patience and ability to manage clients with complex and multiple needs
• Ability to work autonomously in the field and take initiative to seek out information and resources that meet clients’ needs
• Cultural sensitivity and ability to work effectively with clients from all backgrounds
• High level of professionalism, discretion, and ability to handle sensitive and confidential information
• Sound judgement and ability to respond thoughtfully in high-pressure situations
• Strong interpersonal skills

Skill and Education:

• Master’s degree in social work (MSW), Psychology, or related field.
• 1-3+ years of experience working with older adults and/or providing case management (preferred)
• Familiarity with community-based resources and service navigation
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and case management systems, including Outlook and Salesforce, or similar platforms
• Bi-lingual English/Spanish or English/Russian or English/Chinese, with the ability to read and write in both languages (preferred)

Compensation: $60,000 - $65,000 per year

Benefits: Major medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; pre-tax commuter benefits; FSA; 403(b) with employer contribution; plus generous vacation, sick leave, and holidays.