Job Title: Senior Engagement Specialist
Programs: All JFS Programs
Population Served: Older Adults
FSLA Status: Full Time Non-Exempt

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Senior Engagement Specialist is responsible for assisting with program development and implementation, care management, information and referral, and outreach services to Senior Adults and their family members throughout the greater Charlotte area. The Senior Engagement Specialist reports to the Senior Engagement Manager. 

Employment Classification:
The Senior Engagement Specialist is a full-time non-exempt position.

Duties/Responsibilities:
Individualized Senior Engagement and Case Management Services

Conduct case management assessments to determine the financial, housing, medical, emotional, and physical needs of senior clients and caregivers. 

• Work with clients to create customized case management “Life Plans” to reflect goals, desired outcomes and target areas for resources and referrals. 
• Provide ongoing case management services to evaluate and reassess client progress on “Life Plans” with short and long-term goals and make modifications to these as necessary.
• Refer clients to appropriate community resources and advocate for or assist the client in obtaining such services. 
• Submit timely documentation and maintain accurate, complete case management documentation of all services and client related activities. 
• Establish and maintain close working relationship with clients, caregivers/families, and other community professionals. 
• Ensure that community resource information is kept updated and that staff is kept informed.
• Coordinate services with other JFS staff.
• Perform other duties as assigned.  

Community Outreach Services

• Assist in the planning and implementation of educational and social programs addressing topics relevant to senior adults, and coordinate outreach efforts to seniors living independently in the community. 
• Assist in the planning and implementation of both Jewish and non-Jewish programming for local senior living communities 
• Develop and maintain relationships with liaisons at local senior living communities as well as with JFS community liaison and JFS volunteers 
• Work with partner organizations in the community to identify senior clients in need of services and connect senior clients to local supportive services.
• Assist in the coordination and/or implementation of workshops, groups and lecture series geared at issues facing family caregivers.
• Collaborate with community partners in implementing senior specific programs.

Admin and Strategic

• Performs basic administrative tasks such as record keeping, charts managements, and statistics related to performance and productivity of programs and services on a monthly basis.
• Assist the Senior Engagement Manager to meet outcomes and benchmarks for success of senior services.
• Collaborate with the Senior Engagement Manager, Director of Programs and Services, and Executive Director in assessing the needs of seniors in the community. 

Knowledge and skills:

• Knowledge of issues impacting older adults.
• Ability to identify and access resources for Senior Adults in the greater Charlotte community.
• Understand service delivery trending in the aging community. 
• Comfort level and ability to speak and present in public.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Good organizational skills.
• Ability to plan, implement, and coordinate programs.
• Knowledge of Jewish culture and holidays preferred
• Ability to use basic computer software programs such as Microsoft word, Outlook and data entry. 

Minimum Qualifications:

A Bachelor’s Degree, preferably in the Social Services. At least two years of experience working with the Senior Adult population preferred. 

To apply for this position, please email resume to:  info@jfscharlotte.org 

JOB TITLE: Finance and Administrative Services Manager
PROGRAMS: All Jewish Family Services Programs
FSLA STATUS: Exempt
DIRECT REPORTS: Administrative Support Specialist, Client Services Specialist, Accounting Assistant 

POSITION SUMMARY: 

Reporting to the Executive Director, the Finance and Administrative Services Manager is responsible for the overall management of administrative functions for the organization including finance, risk management, office operations, human resources and technology. 

DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Financial Management 

• Review, implement and ensure compliance with all financial policies and procedures of JFS, including necessary internal controls. 
• Oversee cash management, accounting and financial functions, including but not limited to: general ledger, accounts payable and receivable, payroll and all related filings, bank and investment account reconciliations, and all billing. 
• Ensure the integrity of all financial transactions, and establish streamlined accounting processes with a focus on efficiency and reporting. 
• Prepare monthly financial and statistical reports and offer financial analysis in support of JFS’ strategic planning goals. 
• Work with the Executive Director and Treasurer to provide monthly finance reports to the Board of Directors. 
• Responsible for ongoing analysis of costs, potential cost savings and cost allocation, budgeting, and financial forecasting. 
• Oversee JFS investments, including short- and long-term investment strategies of cash reserves, endowment funds, JFS retirement plan, and designated funds. 
• Ensure adequate insurance coverage, including but not limited to directors and officers, workman’s compensation, umbrella, liability, malpractice, property, etc. 
• Serve as a liaison to outside auditors. Prepare schedules and provide required documentation for annual independent audit and Form 990. 
• Ensure compliance with all corporate and non-profit filing requirements, including audit, Form 990, Charitable Solicitation License(s), and other filings as required by the organization or state and federal law. 
• Prepare and oversee annual operating budget, including preparation and distribution of monthly and year-end financial statements, budget forecasting, and identifying cost-saving opportunities. 
• Oversee billing component of Electronic Health Record 
• Responsible for reviewing, revising, communicating and monitoring workflows and processes as it pertains to finance, accounting, risk management, and billing. 

Office Operations 

• Negotiate equipment leases. 
• Oversee the management of office supplies, equipment and maintenance needs for JFS. 
• Work with all vendors as it relates to the functions above. 

Human Resources: 

• Oversee the management of human resource policies, procedures, and employee benefits as per the JFS Personnel Manual and in compliance with all state and federal laws governing employment. 
• Prepare and submit payroll for all employees of JFS and related entities, including reconciliation of time sheets, paid time off, payroll deductions and year-end tax reporting. 
• Oversee retirement plan(s), including working with third-party and disability consultants/brokers, managing employee enrollment, and maintaining plan compliance. 
• Document and track employee Paid Time Off. 
• Conduct worker’s compensation and disability audit. 
• Oversee the implementation of pre-employment procedures for all new prospective employees. 
• Manage the enrollment of employees for all insurance benefits. 
• Maintain all personnel files. 

Information Technology: 

• Sever as Subject Matter Expert for technology functionality and recommend purchases and implementation. 
• Work with Foundation of Shalom Park IT staff to ensure available technology meets the on-going needs of staff and programs. 
• Maintain current inventory of all technology equipment. 

Fundraising and Development: 

Work closely with management staff, tracking proper documentation of donations and gift designations. 

• Interface with donors as needed, responding to questions on donations, account balances, use of funds, etc. 
• Ensure reconciliation between donor and finance reports.

Supervisory, Management, Strategic, Risk Management 

• Responsible for the job specific orientation, training, supervision, and annual performance evaluation of the Administrative Assistant, Client Services Specialist and Accounting Assistant. 
• Assign and review work load of front office staff. 
• Creates opportunities for professional growth for supervisees. 
• Serve as a member of the Management Team. 
• Participate in Board of Director committees as assigned by the Executive Director. 
• Attend Board Meetings as needed, including preparation of relevant reports, documents, and data. 

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS: 

• Non-profit accounting and compliance. 
• Experience working with multiple funding streams. 
• Experience with preparing for non-profit audits. 
• Demonstrated ability and experience in generally accepted accounting principles. 
• Excellent oral and written communication skills. 
• Exceptional computer skills, including strong knowledge of Microsoft Office applications and finance database management. 
• Ability to positively interact with all levels of management, community leaders, staff, clients, and donors. 
• At least two years of previous staff supervisory experience. 
• Excellent customer service skills. 
• Must be organized, efficient, capable of multi-tasking, detail-oriented and self-motivated. 
• Demonstrated ability to work closely with others in a team environment. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 

A Bachelor’s Degree with a degree with at least five years of experience working in a finance related position. Experience working in a non-profit organization and experience in human resource functions preferred. 

MY SIGNATURE BELOW INDICATES THAT I HAVE READ AND UNDERSTAND THE JOB DESCRIPTION AND ACKNOWLEDGE THAT I AM ABLE FULFILL THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE POSITION WITH OR WITHOUT REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION(S): 

For the list – job duties may include sitting, standing, walking, lifting up to x lbs, manual dexterity and visual acuity to use computers, prepare, revise detailed reports and spreadsheets.

To apply for this position, please email resume to:  info@jfscharlotte.org 

By Amanda Levine, JFS Licensed Therapist and Charlotte Rouchouze

This number is expected to rise to 1.2 million people by 2030. During Parkinson’s Awareness Month, the primary goals are to reduce the stigma surrounding the disease and focus on education about the disease. There are many ways to observe Parkinson’s Awareness Month including attending a local event, volunteering, showing support on social media networks, or scheduling a visit with a neurologist.

At Shalom Park the need is responded to in several ways by both the Levine Jewish Community Center (LJCC) and Jewish Family Services (JFS).

In 2017, Charlotte-area residents facing a Parkinson’s diagnosis got a new tool in their fight against the disease. That involved fighting it, literally, with boxing gloves through the LJCC Rock Steady Boxing classes. It started when Shirlee Wadsworth, a Parkinson’s patient and regular at the LJCC, approached Suzanne DiOrio (head coach) with a newspaper clipping. She read about a new boxing regimen that was shown to tremendously help others with Parkinson’s and wanted Suzanne to teach her. Suzanne had never heard of it, but she agreed to take it on. What started with a kind gesture to help a member has turned into supportive community for those struggling with Parkinson’s. At the pre-COVID peak, the program had almost 60 participants. The program is led by three coaches who are certified by the Rock Steady Boxing national program in Indianapolis, Indiana. Part exercise group, part support group, the program aims to provide a truly loving and motivating community.

In 2021, the LJCC added a Friday yoga class for individuals with Parkinson’s. Instructor Aminta St. Onge says, “Our class works on breathing techniques, yoga movement/postures, balance, meditation, and creates mind/body awareness. Specific movement and practices address symptoms and help participants manage some of their symptoms. Yoga is an excellent tool to benefit the nervous system while providing a sense of confidence and calm. The class is also for caregivers.”

Additionally, in 2021, the LJCC’s Oasis Senior Enrichment Program added monthly “coffee houses” to provide support and education to those with Parkinson’s and their families. Last year, Dr. Sanjay Iyer, a well-respected neurologist in Charlotte and doctor to many of the patients in the LJCC’s programs, spoke to the group about a new, breakthrough drug therapy for Parkinson’s. Jill Lipson, director of the LJCC’s Senior and Adult Programs says, “The Levine JCC is committed to supporting the Parkinson’s community as much as possible. Thanks in great part to a grant from Carolina Foundation for Jewish Seniors, services for families living with Parkinson’s disease have been able to expand and flourish over the past several years.”

Caregiving for a loved one with Parkinson’s can be an emotional and challenging journey. Jewish Family Services offers a variety of support group options, including a Parkinson’s Caregiver Support Group specifically for individuals caring for family members with Parkinson’s disease. JFS also offers individual counseling services and case management services for individuals that may require additional support managing their emotional health and wellbeing or may need assistance exploring available resources.

Having a strong support is essential for the wellbeing of the caregiver and the individual with Parkinson’s. Caregiver responsibilities may include helping a loved one with daily activities, making financial decisions, or managing medications and medical appointments. Unfortunately, caregiver stress is common when caring for someone with a chronic illness like Parkinson’s, especially for an extended period. According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, 40%-70% of caregivers are significantly stressed, and about half of these caregivers meet the diagnostic criteria for clinical depression. There are several common warning signs to be aware of in order to address caregiver fatigue. Some of these include ignoring or postponing taking care of physical health needs, growing feelings of isolation, feelings of anxiety and uncertainty, feelings of anger often followed by guilt, bitterness toward friends or relatives, emotional strain/distress often manifesting as varying physical symptoms, and depression, despair or feelings of hopelessness. Depression can interfere with the ability to engage in daily activities and provide the necessary care for both the caregiver or a loved one. It is critical that the caregiver continues to assess mental and emotional needs throughout the caregiving journey.

There are several ways to help manage excessive stress and combat caregiver burnout. First, it is important for caregivers to place their own physical, medical and emotional needs on par with the person with Parkinson’s. Engaging in self-care practices regularly and finding life balance is essential. Taking regular breaks from caregiving is a crucial part of this balance. These breaks are particularly important for those that provide 24-hour care. Maintaining social connections is also an integral part of the caregiver’s emotional wellbeing. It is important that caregivers have an outlet for their emotions and be honest with themselves if they are needing additional support. That support may include seeking professional help or counseling. A therapist or psychiatrist can help to identify causes of distress and provide strategies to better cope with challenging feelings and emotions.

There is no cure for Parkinson’s and there is still much unknown about the disease. Parkinson’s Awareness Month is an annual opportunity to educate, raise awareness, and support the caregivers and those individuals living with this condition. Whether you choose to attend a local event, volunteer, or make a donation to one of the many Parkinson’s organizations, there are several ways to raise awareness and take part in Parkinson’s Awareness Month. Charlotte is fortunate to have agencies like Jewish Family Services and the Levine Jewish Community Center that are dedicated to education and support not just in April, but all year long.

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s or is the caregiver for someone with Parkinson’s, you can share with them the following resources.

JOB TITLE: Therapist (Licensed)
PROGRAM: Counseling Center
POPULATION SERVED: Children & Adolescents, Adults, and Families
FSLA STATUS: Exempt

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Therapist, under the direction and supervision of the Program Manager, is responsible for the delivery and coordination of therapeutic services to clients enrolled in Jewish Family Services of Greater Charlotte, Inc. The Therapist is responsible for all functions related to managing, supporting, and facilitating appropriate services to meet the needs of clients and families.

EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION:

The Therapist is a full-time, exempt position.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

Direct Clinical and Case Management

• Provide individual, group, family therapy, or care coordination for clients.
• Conduct therapy assessments to determine the appropriate treatment needs of the clients and families and evaluate and assess ongoing treatment needs.
• Develop, coordinate, and facilitate therapy treatment planning to include formulation, reviews, and re-formulations as directed.
• Provide on-going therapy in the most appropriate setting to meet the clients needs, i.e. office, home or community setting.
• Develop and implement crisis stabilization plans.
• Conduct case management assessments to determine the financial, housing, medical, emotional, and physical needs of clients and families.
• Develop and implement short-term and long-term goals with case management clients, with the goal of long-term resolutions and self-sufficiency.
• Provide ongoing case management services to evaluate and reassess client and family progress with short and long-term goals and make modifications to these as necessary.
• Refer clients to appropriate community resources and advocate for or assist the client in obtaining such services.
• Where appropriate, conduct parenting classes and provide parenting support.
• Attend appropriate community committee meetings as they relate to the needs of clientele as a part of treatment.
• Participate in on-call rotation as clinical therapist for JFS.
• Confer with Jewish clergy, and other community professionals regarding cases, as appropriate.
• Serve as a consultant regarding mental health and case management issues for members of the Jewish Community.
• Submit timely documentation and maintain accurate, complete clinical and case management documentation of all assessments, services, interventions, treatment plans, and client related activities, and prepare statistical data and reports as requested.
• Establish and maintain close working relationship with clients, families, and other community professionals.
• Maintain strict adherence to the standards and guidelines of all state and private Insurance Panels.
• Participate in and/or lead meetings with other professionals at JFS or in the community, as needed.
• Lead community outreach efforts, such as visits to schools, physicians, and community agencies, in an effort to market and grow programs and services.
• Coordinate and/or develop workshops and lecture series.
• Participate in all assigned staff and supervisory meetings as well as in service trainings and staff development activities.
• Provide Quality Assurance of clinical documentation and chart auditing for compliance purposes.
• Ensures that community resource information is kept updated and that staff is kept informed.
• Maintain compliance with professional licensing requirements, i.e. training and license renewal.
• Other duties as they relate to furthering the mission of Jewish Family Services.

KNOWLEDGE OF:

• NASW Code of Ethics and Best Practices
• Public and Private resources available in the Greater Charlotte community.
• Bio-psychosocial approach to evaluating individuals and families.
• Expanded principles of psychology, social work, juvenile justice, and other social sciences.
• Mental Health assessment, diagnosis, and treatment.
• Crisis Intervention and management.
• Needs Assessment techniques and strategies.
• Problem-solving and conflict-resolution.
• Child welfare and adult abuse laws, regulations, and guidelines.
• Insurance documentation standards and guidelines.
• Individual, Group, Couples, and Family Therapy.

DEMONSTRATED SKILLS:

• Adheres to NASW Code of Ethics in all practices.
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain professional relationships and boundaries with client/families, staff and community agencies.
• Ability to plan, organize, and direct clinical and program activities.
• Use effective time management skills to complete required job duties.
• Ability to work independently, with minimal supervision.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate program and client goals and objectives.
• Conduct individual, family and community needs assessment; develop, implement, and evaluate related services.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Effective use of individual, family, and group therapeutic techniques.
• Good computer knowledge and skills. Must be able to use Microsoft Office programs and electronic health record.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Graduate of an accredited college or university with a Master’s Degree in a Clinical Field. Two years of verified, full-time, post-graduate accumulated MH/DD/SA experience providing direct service to the population served. NC State licensure as LCSW preferred. Other Master’s level licensed professionals may be considered based on acceptance from insurance payers.

To apply for this position, please email resume to:  info@jfscharlotte.org 

 JOB TITLE: Senior Engagement Specialist-Part Time 
PROGRAMS: All JFS Programs 
POPULATION SERVED: Older Adults 
FSLA STATUS: Non-Exempt 

POSITION SUMMARY: 

The Part-Time Senior Engagement Specialist is responsible for assisting with program development, case management, information and referral and outreach services to Senior Adults and their family members. The Part-Time Senior Engagement Specialist reports to the Senior Engagement Manager. 

EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: 

The Part-Time Senior Outreach Specialist is a non- exempt part-time position. 

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Individualized Senior Engagement Services, which may include 

• Provides direct services to Senior Adults through case management, on-going monitoring, visitation, community referrals, advocacy, etc. 
• Works with Senior Adults and/or families in providing case management services to address goals related to food insecurity, housing needs, lack of socialization, or assistance with securing benefits (such as Veteran’s or Medicaid). 
• Provides information, referrals, and consultation to families of Senior Adults and assists with planning needs. 
• Coordinates services with other JFS staff. 
• Perform other duties as assigned. 

Community Outreach Services 

• Assists in the planning and implementation of programming, educational and socialization groups, and outreach efforts to senior adults in both senior residential communities and those residing in private homes. 
• Educates the community on aging issues and resources to establish JFS as the Jewish community’s resource for the aging community. 
• Represents JFS at various professional and community meetings as it relates to senior services. 
• Assists in maintaining community contacts and relationships to maximize use of community resources. 
• Assists in the Coordination and/or implementation of workshops and lecture series geared at issues facing senior adults and caregivers. 
• Coordinates community programs for Senior Adults 
• Conducts educational and cultural programs for seniors who reside in the community or group facilities, including Jewish-themed programming. 
• Collaborate with community partners in implementing Senior specific programs. 
• Co-facilitate support groups such as caregiver support groups or other senior related groups.

Admin and Strategic 

• Performs basic administrative tasks such as record keeping, charts managements, and statistics related to performance and productivity of programs and services. 
• Assist the Senior Engagement Manager to meet outcomes and benchmarks for success of senior services. 
• Collaborates and assists the Senior Engagement Manager, Director of Programs and Services, and Executive Director in assessing the needs of seniors in the community. 

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS: 

• Ability to interact and engage with geriatric population. 
• Knowledge of issues impacting older adults and/or family members. 
• Ability to identify and access resources for Senior Adults in the greater Charlotte community. 
• Knowledge of Jewish culture and values. 
• Understands service delivery trending in the aging community. 
• Comfort level and ability to speak and present in public.  Excellent verbal and written communication skills. 
• Good organizational skills. 
• Ability to plan, implement, and coordinate programs. 
• Ability to use basic computer software programs such as Microsoft word, outlook, excel, and a client data base. 

Minimum Qualifications: 

A Bachelor’s Degree, preferably in the Social Services. At least two years of experience working with the Senior Adult population. 

To apply for this position, please email resume to:  info@jfscharlotte.org