Care For the Homeless (CFH) is a rapidly growing, entrepreneurial not-for-profit Federally Qualified Health Center and social service agency that serves the homeless and unstably housed people in New York City. CFH provides medical, behavioral, and oral health services through an ambulatory care network of 25 Article 28-licensed health centers, some of which are stand-alone and some of which are co-located at shelters, soup kitchens, and drop-in centers throughout NYC’s five boroughs. CFH also currently operates two transitional residences for homeless persons and a safe haven that serves street homeless clients. CFH has three additional residential programs in the development pipeline. Through its Policy and Advocacy Division, CFH maintains a leadership position in the public dialog about homelessness and advocates for policies to end homelessness.
Summary: Work to fight, prevent and end homelessness via policy development, advocacy and public education.
Duties and Responsibilities:
· Assist in developing an agenda of policy issues and positions with CFH’s Director of Policy and Advocacy.
· Research, track and monitor relevant current and/or proposed homeless and healthcare legislation and policies.
· Work with the Director of Policy and Advocacy on integrating policy and program concerns; coordinating the formulation of position papers and testifying at public hearings on homelessness, healthcare policy and related concerns.
· Develop analytic and public education materials on homelessness, healthcare policy and related concerns to use for education of policy makers, advocates and the general public;
· Assist and participate in coalition building and networking opportunities regarding homelessness, healthcare and related issues;
· Identify opportunities to expand CFH’s visibility;
· Arrange and attend meetings with key policy makers and advocates in/around the New York City, Albany and Washington DC.
· Act as a resource person on homelessness, healthcare policy and related issues to CFH staff, Board members and clients;
· Prepare clients and staff to give testimony and/or educate public officials;
· Write newsletter articles, contribute content ideas for reports, and assist in CFH publications;
· Coordinate Community Advisory Committees, cultivate relations with community stakeholders for each shelter site, and act as a liaison between stakeholders and CFH staff;
· Serve as staff support and/or facilitator of the CFH Board Policy and Advocacy Committee and Consumer Advisory Board.
· Plan and execute annual events and meetings, assist in logistical planning and on-site support;
· Execute administrative duties including the maintenance of accurate department records, sending out monthly newsletter, tracking department metrics to meet objectives, etc.
· Will be required to travel to various CFH sites and other venues.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):
· Strong commitment to CFH’s mission and vision;
· Strong project management skills with the ability to manage and prioritize multiple tasks and work autonomously under pressure of deadlines;
· Superior writing skills with the ability to translate complex issues into a level appropriate for the general population and policymakers;
· Clear, concise, and persuasive communication skills (written, verbal, and listening) for effective interaction with partner organizations, people directly impacted by policy decisions, elected officials, legislative staff and other stakeholders;
· Excellent publication skills that include proofreading, copyediting, and knowledge of design/layout;
· Primary and secondary research skills;
· Experience in data analysis, including ability to create and analyze Excel spreadsheets;
· Knowledge of New York City; in terms of population, issues concerning homelessness, challenges, diversity, political climate, and current policy platforms;
· Awareness of homelessness policy issues at the federal, state, and local levels with the ability to assess how those factors impact CFH’s strategic priorities;
· Strong computer skills with proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) and web-based communications;
· Familiarity with utilizing social media platforms for advocacy purposes;
· People management skills that include diplomacy, fostering a team environment, managing consultants, and/or managing administrative staff;
· Ability to exercise considerable judgment and discretion in dealing with consumers and consumer board activities.
· Ability to work with diverse populations, communities, and cultures;
· Strong interpersonal skills, and experience building and maintaining positive working relationships.
Work Environment:
· Fast paced, diverse, and dynamic work environment.
· Travel required for meetings and conferences as needed.
· Physical demands of the role: requiring set- up for meetings/conferences; which may require lifting or carrying materials, e.g., easels, flip charts, refreshments, brochures, etc. Ability to lift and carry supplies and/or equipment, up to 25 lbs.
· Some evening hours will be required.
Experience, Education, and Training:
· Bachelor’s degree required, Master’s degree preferred.
· Three or more years in a policy or advocacy role; although experience is preferred in a policy and/or advocacy role surrounding homelessness.
· Strong understanding of public policy and legislative processes.
· Experience participating in coalitions and building strategic relationships with diverse groups and interests.
* Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $70,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Employee discount
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
Education:
- Bachelor's (Preferred)
Experience:
- Public speaking: 1 year (Preferred)
Work Location: In person