Helpline Specialist-Elder Abuse

Description

Lifespan is a trusted, mission-driven, regional nonprofit dedicated to helping older adults take on the challenges and opportunities of longer life. We are a great place to work where staff can grow personally and professionally in a supportive and inclusive environment. 

STATUS:  Non-exempt, part-time (22.5 hours per week)

HOURLY RATE:  $20.00 to $22.00 per hour

SUMMARY

The Elder Abuse Helpline for Concerned Persons (“Helpline”), is a confidential, non-emergency, no-cost service for family, friends, neighbors, and others who become aware that a NYS resident, 60 years of age and older, is being abused, neglected, and/or financially exploited. Concerned Persons are often distressed about the situation and can experience a wide range of related emotional and practical problems, but may not know where to turn for help.

Helpline Specialists (“Specialists”) provide Concerned Persons with emotional support, information about elder abuse dynamics and dangers, crisis intervention, resources, referrals, and potential pathways for seeking assistance for the older person, and for themselves. Helpline services are provided without judgment or expectation. The Helpline is a collaborative program between Lifespan of Greater Rochester Inc. for upstate New York, and the Center for Elder Abuse Solutions (CEASe) for downstate New York. The upstate team covers 53 counties. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Operations

• Provides direct services to those who contact the Helpline through phone and internet-based approaches, including trauma informed counseling and emotional support; education about elder abuse and elder abuse resources; referrals; guidance with planning action steps; and safety planning.
• Maintains meticulous documentation of all calls and clinical activity in the Helpline’s database system.
• Fulfills all reporting requirements per Lifespan and NYS Office of Victim Services requirements.
• Participates in regular meetings with other Helpline and Upstate Elder Abuse Center staff
• Collaborates with CEASe staff and other Lifespan Helpline program staff to coordinate activities throughout NYS and implementation of the Helpline in Upstate NY.
• Works with UpEAC leadership and Lifespan senior management to develop public awareness materials, media strategies, and outreach coordination for the Helpline in Upstate New York.
• Provide elder abuse and Helpline trainings online and in person as needed. 
• Works collaboratively with other UpEAC staff to assist in provision of trainings about elder abuse to diverse populations that incorporate information about the Elder Abuse Helpline.
• Represents the program and the needs of concerned persons at professional and public venues, including conferences that may involve travel.
• Maintains up-to-date knowledge and skills by attending ongoing conferences, trainings, and seminars with the approval of the Program Manager and within the financial resources of the program.
• Performs other duties as assigned. 

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION:  Master of Social Work preferred or Bachelor’s in Social Work with two years’ relevant work experience.

EXPERIENCE: Two years in human service work, with at least one-year experience in gerontological social work or aging services. Proven skill in providing counseling services that include addressing trauma, triaging cases and rapid engagement and assessment.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

· Travel within New York State required. 

· A portion of the work is performed at a desk or at a personal computer station.

· Verbal, written and telephone communication skills are required.

· Group training and public speaking skills required.

· Strong written and computer skills needed.

· Ability to maintain composure under strict deadlines and difficult situations.

· Flexibility to work some evening and weekend hours, if necessary, which can primarily be done remotely.

· Ability to work in multi cultural situations.

Lifespan offers great benefits including:

If working 37.5 hours, the following benefits are available

Vacation (21 days) 

Sick (10 days)

Personal Time (3 Days)

Holidays (11)

Medical Insurance (3 options)

Dental Insurance (2 options)

Vision (2 options)

Flexible Spending Account

Health Savings Account with company contribution

403(b) Retirement Program

Hybrid Work Schedule may be available after successfully completing the probationary period

If working less than 37.5 hours, accrue